HK actor Andy Lau says he had to face his fear of water on movie set

Hong Kong actor Andy Lau says his fear of water stems from an accident the past. Photo: Andy Lau/Instagram

Hong Kong actor Andy Lau may be a superstar, but it turns out he is just like many of us who have our own phobias.

In a recent interview with Hong Kong media, Lau revealed that he had to face his fear of water while filming the hit science fiction movie, The Wandering Earth II – which had numerous underwater scenes involved.

According to the 61-year-old, he once had an “accident” and since then has been afraid of going into the water.

“Ever since the accident, I have never gone swimming. I feel terrified every time I have to step into the water, so this was a very challenging experience for me,” he said.

The Heavenly King added that there was one scene where he had to pretend to choke while underwater.

Although the director assured that safety measures were adequate, Lau admitted that he was still afraid.

“The fear will definitely be there, but I guess that fear was exactly what we needed (for a realistic portrayal) in the film.

“I am Andy Lau. People shouldn’t know I’m scared of water,” he said with a laugh.

During the interview, the God Of Gamblers star also spoke about his 11-year-old daughter, Hanna, and how he has come to understand children better after having her.

“Before fatherhood, I did not know any better. I once lost my temper with two child stars while on the set of Lee Rock,” he said.

According to reports, Lau had dragged the two child actors to the back alley and scolded them for being too noisy while filming was going on.

“But after becoming a father, I now understand that the children (were fidgety) because they had to endure such a long filming period.

“For example, after tutoring and helping Hanna with her homework for two straight hours, she will get frustrated,” he said.

Presently, Lau considers himself to be a “yes-dad” and would often spoil his daughter.

"(My wife) and I love doting on Hanna. My daughter is not afraid of anyone at home,” the actor said.

Lau tied the knot with his Malaysian partner, former model Carol Chu, in 2008 and welcomed a daughter in 2012.