Chinese audiences will never forget Rong Momo, the ruthless yet unforgettable character from My Fair Princess (Huan Zhu Ge Ge). Played by veteran actress Li Mingqi, the character left a lasting impression due to her villainous ways. After all, who can forget that scene where Rong Momo relished the opportunity to torture Ruby Lin’s character Ziwei – with needles! In real life, the veteran actress is pretty much the complete opposite as she’s known to be the kind grandma when occasionally spotted out and about by Netizens. Now 89 years old, Li Mingqi recently appeared at the 2025 CCTV Spring Festival Gala (Chunwan), festive in her striking red attire.
A moment from the backstage of Chunwan captured actors Tony Leung Ka-fai and Li Xuejian, 67 and 70 respectively, waiting for Li Mingqi as she made an entrance. Leung cheekily bowed, assisting her as if she were royalty while Li Mingqi, ever the performer, responded with the familiar haughty expression, exuding the same presence that made Rong Momo legendary, their playful theatrics amusing netizens.
Li Mingqi’s career spans decades, beginning in the 1960s. She achieved widespread recognition in 1997 with her supporting role as Rong Momo in My Fair Princess, solidifying her place in television history. Even at 89, she continues to inspire younger generations. She recently appeared on a show where she encouraged young people to work hard and cherish every step of their journey. Reflecting on her own life, she said with emotion, “It would be great if I were even in my 40s now. I could still do so many things.”
