Hong Kong action star Chan Wai Man, who had suffered a stroke and battled both lung and brain cancer, celebrated his 82nd birthday three months ahead of schedule last month. The actor was seen with almost all white hair, looking thinner in the face and body compared to before. Although his eyes still showed vitality, his expression appeared somewhat vacant. Recently, Chan Wai Man made another appearance, personally filming a video to reassure the public of his well-being.
Following the release of the video celebrating Chan Wai Man’s 82nd birthday ahead of time last month, concerns arose about his health. However, the actor appeared in a video recently to update everyone on his condition. In the video, Chan Wai Man was dressed in a white T-shirt, looking slim with white hair, but exuding a lively spirit. He greeted the camera and informed his online audience, “I’m doing fine now, don’t worry, thank you all!”
Chan Wai Man’s assistant left a message saying, “Boss is recovering well!” Many well-wishers also commented, “Wishing you good health and all the best,” “Can’t wait to see you in another movie,” “Take care, boss.”
At over eighty years old, Chan Wai Man has practiced martial arts since childhood and even set a record by defeating Japanese boxing champion Tsuyoshi Morisaki in just 35 seconds. In 1972, he represented Hong Kong in the Southeast Asian boxing competition, winning the championship by defeating numerous opponents. His martial arts skills put him on par with the legendary martial artist Bruce Lee; Bruce Lee once praised Chan Wai Man as the best fighter in the industry, coining the saying “Chan Wai Man for fists, Bruce Lee for legs.”
With over 40 years in the Hong Kong film industry, Chan Wai Man initially starred in martial arts films and often portrayed authoritative gang leaders due to his commanding presence. Known as the “professional boss,” he played roles like the “Crab King” in “The Five Billion Dollar Man” and “Dong Sing Big Brother Camel” in the “Young and Dangerous” series. In reality, he has worked as a prison guard and a police officer. Hong Kong media reported that even the influential figure in the Hong Kong film industry known as “Long Wu,” Anthony Wong Chau-sang, held him in high regard.
Despite his iconic tough image on and off-screen, Chan Wai Man has faced health challenges in recent years, including a stroke, lung cancer, and being diagnosed with brain cancer in 2021. He spent millions of Hong Kong dollars on medical treatment to fight cancer. Fortunately, with his wife’s attentive care, he has made a good recovery. However, last year he underwent surgery for hip joint issues and now relies on a cane for assistance when moving around.
Last month, a short video of an early birthday celebration for Chan Wai Man was shared by netizens. In the video, Chan Wai Man appeared with all white hair, looking noticeably thinner and showing a somewhat stiff expression, leading to concerns about his health. This time, he filmed a video at home, wearing a white T-shirt. Although his hair was still white, he appeared spirited. He greeted the camera, saying, “I’m doing pretty well physically now, so rest assured, thank you all!”