HK actor Ray Lui mourns death of ex-wife Kathy Chow: 'I can't stay calm'

Hong Kong actor Ray Lui was married to Kathy Chow between 1988 and 1989. Photos: Ray Lui/Weibo, Kathy Chow/Weibo

Hong Kong actor Ray Lui has paid tribute to his ex-wife, actress Kathy Chow Hoi Mei, in light of her passing.

Chow, who had reportedly battled an autoimmune disease, died on Dec 11 following the “unsuccessful treatment” of her illness. She was 57.

In a Weibo post on Tuesday (Dec 12), Lui said he was shocked by the “sudden” news of Chow’s death and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

“Farewell, Kathy. I can’t stay calm for a long time after hearing this news. Thank you for helping make this world a beautiful place. May you continue to laugh in the next world,” the 66-year-old wrote.

According to reports, Lui and Chow secretly registered their marriage in the United States in 1988 after working together on the TVB drama, The Upheaval, in 1986.

However, the marriage ended in divorce five months later as they “did not understand love”.

The pair remained on good terms after the split.

Lui went on to marry singer Cally Kwong in 1996 but divorced a year later.

In 2001, Lui tied the knot with Chinese businesswoman Yang Xiaojun. The couple have a son together.

Meanwhile, Chow said in a programme last year that she enjoys being single.

She once told Hong Kong media that she has no desire to marry again after her first marriage with Lui ended in divorce.