Hong Kong actor Andy Lau (刘德华) has always been known for his love and admirable filiality towards his parents. As such, hearing that he had lost his father, Mr. Lau Lai (刘礼), this week came as a huge blow.
From young till now, Andy Lau’s parents have been a huge part of his life; always there to support his career every step of the way. Unfortunately, his father’s journey with him ended on 20th November when he passed away peacefully at age 96.
The news was first announced via Andy’s blog on his website around 5pm yesterday. “Dear family,” it read. “My father passed away peacefully on the 20th, surrounded by his family. Thank you.” The website has also been changed to black and white, out of respect for Mr. Lau Lai’s passing.
Fans have since left an outpouring of love in the comments with condolence messages, with several hoping he will take good care of himself and his mother. His agency later confirmed the passing of Andy’s father and revealed that Andy Lau is currently occupied with handling his father’s affairs.
In 2003, it was reported that Andy Lau’s father had been diagnosed with bladder cancer. Thankfully, he recovered well after a surgery to remove the tumour and this incident later inspired Andy to perform in the film “Wait ’til You’re Older (童梦奇缘)”. However, neither Andy nor his agency have given further details regarding his father’s passing.
Andy has always been vocal about his love for his father, who used to serve as a firefighter when he was younger before running the snack shop 得胜士多 to support his family. In return, Andy made sure his parents were well taken care of when he could afford it, settling them in a mansion in Kadoorie Hill, Hong Kong. Andy also allegedly bought a shop selling barbecue pork for his dad’s birthday as he loved the dish.
He once reportedly claimed: “The teacher I respect the most is my father.” Andy’s father too has always been supportive of Andy and his career. He once commented at Andy’s concert: “He (Andy) was very cute when he was born. I really didn’t expect that he would become a star today.“
Our hearts go out to Andy Lau and his family. We offer condolences for their loss and hope they will be able to find peace in Mr. Lau Lai’s passing.
Sources: China Press, Xuan, Oriental Daily, 华仔天地, Weibo
