Hong Kong artist Julian Cheung has sparked widespread discussion following his appearance in the television drama “City of Splendor,” where he donned a luxurious watch valued at approximately HKD 2 million. This revelation was further amplified when his uncle, Charlie Chau, publicly confirmed on a program that Cheung’s wealth is substantial enough to support three generations.
In “City of Splendor,” Julian Cheung plays the role of a villainous CEO named Kwan Siu-Hin. To fully embody his character, he chose to wear an exquisite timepiece from the independent watch brand F.P. Journe, including the Chronomètre Bleu, valued at around HKD 2 million, and another timepiece, the Tourbillon Souverain Vertical, also priced at about HKD 2 million. Scenes from the drama showcase Cheung flaunting these remarkable watches, igniting fervent discussions among internet users regarding his fashion choices and taste.
Beyond his on-screen portrayal of opulence, Cheung’s asset allocation and investments in real life are equally diverse. In recent years, he has made significant strides into the art market, developing a keen interest in contemporary Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, and currently boasts a collection of over 10 paintings. Cheung previously mentioned that one of his “pumpkin paintings” has appreciated in value by twofold, with his total art assets estimated to near HKD 100 million.
On the property front, in 2017, Cheung invested HKD 91.8 million in a luxurious apartment in the Eastern Mid-Levels named “Tai Po Court,” which he has been renting out. In 2023, he and his wife, Annie Yi, acquired a factory unit in Chai Wan for HKD 8.8 million. However, for their personal residence, they opt for a lavish rental arrangement, spending approximately HKD 200,000 monthly for an ocean-view apartment in Repulse Bay, maintaining a high level of liquidity.
According to reports, Julian Cheung is famously recognized in the entertainment industry as a “devoted husband.” Despite often engaging in humorous banter about their long-lasting marriage on various programs, he has repeatedly, albeit jokingly, expressed that his wife Annie’s penchant for luxury bags could lead him to financial ruin. For the past 20 years, he has shown unyielding support for Yi’s love for Hermès, reportedly gifting her top-tier handbags such as limited-edition Birkin and Kelly bags, which have an estimated total value of nearly HKD 20 million. Additionally, internet users have speculated that her entire collection of designer handbags exceeds HKD 50 million.
This intriguing revelation about Cheung’s wealth and lifestyle gained renewed attention in media outlets when his luxurious watch choice during “City of Splendor” was revisited by major Hong Kong media. Charlie Chau, Cheung’s uncle, shared insights during a May YouTube interview with seasoned media personality Wong Man-Ling on the program “Quick Snap: Man Lens.” He expressed concerns about Cheung’s perceived waning enthusiasm for his acting career in recent years and advised his nephew, “If the money you earn can last three lives, then pursue the roles you love. If not, then you need to work hard.” The “three lives” he referred to encompasses spending for oneself, one’s children, and eventually one’s grandchildren.
Julian Cheung’s candid acknowledgment of his financial situation, reassuring that it is indeed “enough,” further adds to the intrigue surrounding his persona and financial management within the entertainment industry.