Veteran Hong Kong Actor Benz Hui Dies at 76 After Cancer Battle

Post by : Raina Nasser

Hong Kong is mourning the loss of one of its most respected and beloved actors, Benz Hui, who passed away at the age of 76. The veteran performer, often called the “King of Supporting Actors,” died in the early hours of Tuesday at a hospital in Hong Kong after suffering from complications related to cancer, according to local media reports.

Benz Hui, whose real name was Hui Shiu-hung, had a remarkable career spanning more than five decades. Though not always a headline star, Benz Hui was a familiar face to generations of viewers across Asia. His performances in more than 200 films and television shows made him one of the most recognizable and cherished figures in the Hong Kong entertainment industry.

Known for his incredible versatility, Benz Hui often played police officers, gangsters, or endearing uncles — characters that resonated deeply with audiences. His memorable role as “Chung Sir,” a police superintendent in the 2002 hit film Love Undercover, showcased his signature blend of toughness and warmth. Another standout performance as a triad boss in a 2014 film earned him the nickname “Foon-hei Gor” — or Brother Foon-hei — a name fans still affectionately use today.

The English nickname “Benz Hui” came from his habit of driving a Mercedes-Benz to work, a symbol of success that became part of his on-screen and off-screen identity. His career flourished during the golden era of Hong Kong television from the 1970s to the 1990s, especially through his work with TVB — whose shows were watched by millions across East and Southeast Asia.

Beyond his on-screen fame, Benz Hui came from a historically distinguished family. Reports reveal he was descended from a wealthy salt merchant lineage in China. One of his ancestors served as a minister under the legendary Empress Dowager Cixi, while another was connected to Lu Xun, often regarded as the father of modern Chinese literature. However, Hui often downplayed his heritage, humbly saying, “Every tree has dead branches, and every large tribe has beggars. I am both a dead branch and a beggar, as I am really not as great as them.”

Tributes poured in from fans and fellow celebrities following the news of Benz Hui’s death. Actress Shu Qi shared on Weibo, “May you have a peaceful journey.” Singer and actress Miriam Yeung Chin-wah expressed gratitude on Instagram, writing, “I’m thankful that I was lucky to meet you at the starting point of my career.”

Fans online described his passing as the end of an era, marking the loss of one of Hong Kong cinema’s finest character actors. “This is a sad day for everyone who grew up with TVB,” one user wrote on social media platform RedNote.

Benz Hui is survived by his wife and daughter, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of actors and audiences alike. His warmth, professionalism, and unforgettable performances have earned him a permanent place in the heart of Asian cinema.