2024 continues to be a year of devastating loss as the Hong Kong entertainment industry mourns the death of another respected star. Veteran actress Lily Li Lai Lai (李丽丽), widely recognised as one of Hong Kong’s first-generation martial arts stars, passed away on 27th October 2024 (Sunday). She was 74 years old.
The news of Lily’s death was shared by veteran media journalist Wong Man-ling (汪曼玲). In her post, she revealed that the late star passed away after succumbing to lung cancer. The actress was diagnosed with the disease a few years back, but the cancer had only recently spread. Lily stayed in the hospital in the last month to receive treatment but, sadly, lost her battle with cancer. Unfortunately, there are no additional details on her death.
Lily’s incredible career spanned nearly six decades, starting at 11 years old. She joined the Shaw Brother’s training program in 1960, even falsifying her age to be accepted. The star would later make a name for herself in dozens of Shaw Brother films, gaining recognition for her martial arts skills. She was also trained in contemporary and classical dancing and ballet, showcasing her graceful side. The actress joined Asia Television (ATV) in 1980 before working with TVB in 1988.
Lily would remain with the broadcasting station until her retirement in 2020. During her career with TVB, she appeared in many renowned dramas, including “Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils (天龙八部)” and “War and Beauty (金枝慾孽)“. The late actress also notably never married, instead dedicating her life to her craft and becoming one of Hong Kong’s most respected stars. Lily’s death comes after the passing of her fellow first-generation martial arts stars, Lee Hoi-Sang (李海生) and Cheng Pei Pei (鄭佩佩), who both died earlier this year.
Both kung fu movies and TVB fans have since mourned the death of the late actress, paying tribute to her illustrious career. Lily Li will live on through her many works and contributions to the Hong Kong entertainment industry. May she rest in peace.
Sources: Facebook, China Press, Drama Panda, China Times
