Hong Kong actor Steve Lee Ka Ding has publicly severed ties with his eldest son Augustine, who's also an actor.
The move comes nearly a month after the 81-year-old accused him of depleting his savings and withholding news of his ex-wife, actress Frances Shi Ming's death.
In an interview with Hong Kong's East Week magazine, Lee revealed that the ongoing family conflict has taken a heavy emotional toll on him.
The actor, who has a younger son Gregory, said he had raised both sons equally but believed their vastly different personalities had led to the deterioration of his bond with Augustine, 48.
"My younger son is very simple, straightforward and doesn't cause trouble. The older one is good at winning people over but has a lot of problems," he lamented.
Lee added that Gregory – who's also an actor – has never been one to compete for attention, while Augustine has always been more strong-willed and domineering.
He also didn't hold back when discussing his eldest son, saying: "I can't even bear to look at him. Just seeing him hurts my eyes."
On whether he would ever forgive Augustine, Lee firmly ruled out the possibility.
"Augustine is no longer my son. Whatever happens to him has nothing to do with me," he said.
Lee explained that Shi's death cemented his decision, adding that Augustine's 10-day delay in informing him of her passing left him "hurt beyond the point of being hurt any further".
"There has only ever been one woman I truly loved in my life, and that was her," he shared.
Lee said his main priority now is maintaining stability in both his professional and personal life.
He added that he has become more mindful of his finances after years of supporting Augustine, a responsibility that left him struggling to make ends meet.
According to Lee, he now needs around HK$130,000 (RM66,101) a month to feel secure.
Looking ahead, the actor plans to produce more online content with Gregory, 46, and further expand his food and beverage business.
He also revealed that he's currently in discussions regarding several advertising projects.
