HK star Andy Lau helps to get coffin for godfather who died of Covid-19

Hong Kong star Andy Lau is said to have used his connection to get a coffin for his godfather. Photo: IZZRAFIQ ALIAS/The Star

Hong Kong star Andy Lau is said to have used his connection to get a coffin for his godfather, Liu Shanben, who died at the age of 95 from Covid-19 on March 17.

The island is experiencing a surge in Covid-19 cases and deaths which has led to a shortage of coffins.

South China Morning Post reported the overall tally of infections currently stands at 1,174,560, with 8,262 related deaths. The rising death toll has “put a strain on mortuaries, and refrigerated containers are being used to temporarily store bodies”, wrote AP.

Due to this, Liu’s family was unsuccessful in obtaining a coffin.

Luckily, Lau made some calls and found a coffin for his godfather. Liu's funeral was held on Sunday (April 3).

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Although Liu is not in the entertainment industry, Lau got to know him through Liu’s wife, Pau Hiu-wah and daughter Alice Lau, both of whom are actresses.

Grateful for Lau’s assistance, Alice is quoted saying: “We were fortunate to receive help from Andy and I was able to give my father a proper send off.”

According to Alice, the Heavenly King would often visit her father after his health deteriorated a few years back.