Hong Kong martial arts actor Bruce Leung Choi-sang has died at the age of 77.
Reports indicate that he passed away on Jan 14 from unspecified causes.
News of Leung's death emerged on Sunday (Jan 18) after a farewell message written by the actor was posted on his Douyin account.
In the letter, dated Jan 14, Leung used a film metaphor to bid his final goodbye.
"I've gone to a very, very faraway place to make a film. Please forgive me for leaving without saying goodbye.
"Just think of it as me having gone to a very distant place to shoot a movie," he wrote, as quoted by Singapore news outlet CNA.
Leung added that he had intended to keep his passing a secret, which was why his "close disciple" continued posting videos as usual.
"I like having a bit of mystery. Live well on my behalf. Love is always here. Remember that I love you all."
According to reports, Leung's funeral service is scheduled for Jan 26 in Shenzhen's Longgang district in China.
The actor joined showbiz the 1970s and was known for his roles in The Dragon Lives Again (1977), Magnificent Bodyguards (1978) and Kung Fu Hustle (2004).
In 1975, Leung married Hong Kong singer Irene Ryder and had a daughter with her. However, their relationship ended in divorce in the 1980s due to lack of communication.
In 1995, Leung married a Chinese woman named Song Xiang, with whom he had two children, who are said to be skilled in martial arts.
Many fans have since left comments paying tribute to Leung.
"The final boss in Kung Fu Hustle. Rest in power," said one netizen.
Another added: "He has returned to train with the Gods."
