Veteran actress Lily Li (), widely recognized among Hong Kong’s first-generation “martial arts stars,” passed away on October 27, 2024, after a battle with cancer. She was 74 years old. Her death was confirmed by media personality Wang Man-ling, who shared the sad news online. Lily Li’s remarkable career spanned nearly six decades, starting when she joined the Shaw Brothers’ training program at just 11 years old, even falsifying her age to get in. She became known for her martial arts skills and grace, often compared to established stars like the late Cheng Pei-pei.
She eventually joined TVB and remained with the network until her retirement in 2020. Her last TV appearance was as Grandma Tao in Forensic Heroes IV. She chose to leave TVB without much fanfare, citing her age and health as reasons. Known for her versatile roles, Lily Li portrayed everything from action heroines to supporting roles like her role as Mama Chui in Beyond the Realm of Conscience.
Coralie
so sad, another TVB acting veteran who’s given her life to acting with little fanfare and recognition. then again, most of us toil in regular 9-5 jobs with no recognition, either. it just feels like there’s so much more she could’ve accomplished had she not been born in the wrong time, with the wrong company. the loss of potential, maybe. RIP Lily. you’re missed.