Post by : Meena Ariff

Veteran Hong Kong actor Benz Hui, fondly known as the “King of Supporting Actors,” has passed away at the age of 76. The beloved performer, whose real name was Hui Shiu-hung, died in the early hours of Tuesday at a hospital in Hong Kong following complications related to cancer.
A Recognizable Face in Asian Cinema

While Hui may not have been an A-list name across Asia, his familiar face was instantly recognizable to millions of viewers who grew up watching Hong Kong dramas and films. His long career spanned over five decades, earning him admiration for his versatility and natural screen presence.
Hui appeared in more than 200 films and television projects, showcasing a remarkable range from hardened police officers and gangsters to warm-hearted uncles and comedic sidekicks.

Iconic Roles and Memorable Characters

Among his most famous roles was that of “Chung Sir”, a police superintendent in the 2002 romantic comedy Love Undercover. Another memorable performance came in 2014, when he portrayed a triad boss, a role that earned him the affectionate nickname “Foon-hei Gor” (Brother Foon-hei) among fans.
Over the years, Hui developed a strong reputation for his professionalism and humility, both on and off-screen. As his career flourished, he began driving a Mercedes-Benz to his studio, leading colleagues to give him the nickname “Benz Hui”—a name he later adopted officially.

A Pillar of Hong Kong’s Entertainment Golden Era

Hui’s acting journey mirrored the golden era of Hong Kong television and cinema, from the 1970s through the 1990s. During this time, dramas produced by local broadcasters captivated audiences across Hong Kong, Southeast Asia, and beyond.
His contributions played a significant role in shaping the identity of Hong Kong’s entertainment industry, which influenced countless regional productions and inspired generations of actors.

A Legacy Rooted in History

Few knew that Benz Hui came from a historically distinguished family. He was a descendant of a prominent salt merchant family, with deep connections to China’s imperial past. One of his ancestors served as a minister in the court of the Empress Dowager Cixi, while another collaborated with Lu Xun, considered the father of modern Chinese literature.
When asked about these illustrious ties, Hui once downplayed them with characteristic humility, 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 they.”
His grounded nature and modesty won him respect from peers and fans alike.

Tributes Pour In from Celebrities and Fans

Following news of his death, tributes flooded social media platforms as fans and industry colleagues expressed their grief and admiration.
Actress Shu Qi wrote, “May you have a peaceful journey.”
Singer and actress Miriam Yeung Chin-wah shared, “I’m thankful that I was lucky to meet you at the starting point of my career.”
Many online users described Hui’s passing as the “end of an era”, particularly for those who grew up watching Hong Kong dramas during their golden years. “This is a sad day for everyone who grew up with TVB,” one user commented.

Enduring Influence and Final Years

Even in his later years, Benz Hui remained active in entertainment and frequently appeared in interviews and public events. His charisma and wisdom made him a beloved figure across generations.
His work ethic and passion for acting inspired many younger artists who saw him as a role model of dedication and consistency. Despite often playing supporting characters, Hui’s performances elevated every project he was part of — a testament to his lasting influence.

Survived by Family and Fans’ Memories

Benz Hui is survived by his wife and daughter, who were reportedly by his side in his final days. Fans across Asia continue to celebrate his life and legacy through his numerous performances that remain timeless in Hong Kong’s cinematic history.
As the industry mourns his loss, Benz Hui’s name will continue to stand as a symbol of excellence, humility, and the enduring spirit of Hong Kong cinema.

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