Hong Kong actor Michael Chan Wai Man is back in the news when photos of him circulated online showing the 81-year-old smoking at a restaurant.
Fans voiced their concerns as Chan battled lung cancer in 2020. Then the following year, he was diagnosed with brain cancer.
Thankfully, the actor has managed to beat the odds. It was reported that his medical expenses came up to more than HK$1mil (RM570,000).
He has opened up to Hong Kong media about his battles with cancer.
"I'd be lying if I said I'm not afraid. Everyone fears death. I never expected to have cancer in my brain," he said, adding that he is not as agile. "My body feels numb at times. I also feel weak occasionally."
The martial artist also went through a hip replacement surgery and now needs a walking stick to get around.
Chan began his career in the 1970s and has appeared in over 80 films in Hong Kong. He is best known for his iconic portrayal of the gangster Camel in Young And Dangerous 3.
The role came naturally to Chan, who candidly revealed that he was once a triad member, even holding the rank of No.2 in a prominent Hong Kong underworld gang.
