It seems that Chinese cinema has lost yet another brilliant star after it was reported that actress Cheng Pei Pei (郑佩佩) sadly passed away today, on 18th July 2024 (Friday). The late star was 78 years old.
The devastating news was publicly shared by many of Pei Pei’s colleagues in the entertainment industry, including Chinese-American Sherwood Hu (胡雪桦). The filmmaker wrote through his WeChat Moments post, “I remember 27 years ago, in Los Angeles, you hosted a memorial service for director King Hu (胡金銓). Today, the “Kung Fu Queen” has gone to follow King Hu. I believe she’s reliving the glory of “Come Drink With Me (大醉侠)” at the Cannes Film Festival in heaven. Rest in peace, Queen Pei Pei.”
Renowned television host and actor Kefan Chao (曹可凡) also mourned the death of the prolific actress, writing, “Every time I meet Sister Pei Pei, I am moved by her hearty laughter. Even when talking about her difficult past, she never complains or laments.” The 61-year-old also spoke about Pei Pei’s recent health issues, adding, “In recent years, I’ve heard that Sister Pei Pei’s health wasn’t good (but) I didn’t expect she would be separated from us forever. There is no pain in heaven. I pray that she will rest in peace.”
Pei Pei’s death was later confirmed by her management agency, which revealed that the star died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. However, the actual cause of death was not reported but it was said that Pei Pei has been suffering from declining health over the past few years after she was diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease in 2019. Regardless, her passing is a great loss to Chinese entertainment, as Pei Pei has been a significant part of the industry for over 50 years.
The late actress debuted in 1964 when she was a teenager, acting in the Taiwanese film, “Lover’s Rock (情人石)”. She then had her breakout role in the 1966 action film, “Come Drink With Me”, which is widely considered one of the best wuxia films of all time. Since then, Pei Pei has starred in many films and television series, including the global hit “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (臥虎藏龍)”. She’s also known for her work in several American productions, including “Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li” and “Mulan”.
We extend our condolences to Cheng Pei Pei’s family and loved ones. May they find peace in this difficult time.
Sources: China Press, Sin Chew
