Hong Kong artist Wong Yishan, aged 60, is known for his supporting roles in movies like “Fight Back to School” starring Stephen Chow (Siu Ming) in his early years. Recently, he has shifted his focus to business in mainland China. During his visit to Hong Kong for an event, Wong revealed in an interview that Stephen Chow had rejected his request to visit the set of his new movie “Shaolin Soccer Girls”, which was being filmed in Shenzhen.
The 62nd Asia Pacific International Film Festival Awards ceremony was held in Hong Kong on July 9th. Wong Yishan, along with actors Lo Kar Yeng, Charmaine Tan, Angie Cheung, and others, served as award presenters. Wong Yishan, who had not been seen in Hong Kong for quite some time, shared updates on his career development in mainland China and his interaction with his old partner Stephen Chow.
Reflecting on his current career status, Wong Yishan expressed regret that despite still having the passion for acting, no one is approaching him for roles, so he has gradually curbed his desire for acting, feeling somewhat bleak. When asked about attempting to secure a role in Stephen Chow’s new film “Shaolin Soccer Girls”, Wong Yishan disclosed that although he tried to contact Stephen Chow through intermediaries to visit the set, Stephen Chow responded with a polite refusal, saying it was too far and unnecessary for Wong to come.
Wong Yishan admitted that his peak in the entertainment industry has passed. He acknowledged his performances in movies like “Fight Back to School”, “Hail the Judge”, and “Flirting Scholar” were commendable, but he now hesitates to embarrass himself in front of Siu Ming. Wong mentioned that if he were to act now, he would be concerned about Stephen Chow’s reaction, fearing he might say, “Why are you acting like this?” which could affect others’ impression of him, so he prefers to stop while he’s ahead.
Regarding his current food and beverage business, Wong Yishan shared that his youngest son is soon to graduate with a master’s degree in psychology from Peking University, but he worries about the tough market situation and the possibility of his son being unemployed after graduation. He jokingly mentioned that he is working hard to expand the business, hoping his son will return to take over as CEO. In the process, Wong unexpectedly revealed a hidden situation in mainland China: “Many people now have psychological issues but lack the money to see a psychologist. I thought my son’s major was good, but it’s actually difficult to find a job.”
After news of Stephen Chow rejecting Wong Yishan’s visit to the set spread, it sparked discussions among netizens. Subsequently, Wong Yishan clarified in another interview that he doesn’t mind Stephen Chow’s refusal and explained that Stephen Chow believes in fate and chance encounters between people.