Hong Kong actress Natalie Tong was unable to hold back tears as she reflected on the loss of her mother, who passed away in 2009.
In a recent variety show appearance, the 45-year-old actress opened up about her lingering regret over not spending enough time with her mother while she was busy pursuing her career.
"I was too focused on building my career and neglected my family. I devoted all my time to work and didn't take better care of my mum. I later realised that I had given her too little time," the actress said.
Tong recalled that her mother had undergone a pacemaker implantation, which required regular replacement. However, due to financial constraints, the family decided to delay the procedure.
"Back then, I truly believed we still had more time," she said.
Her mother later went on a trip, but shortly after returning home, she suddenly began vomiting blood and was rushed to the hospital.
The following morning, Tong was overcome by an uneasy feeling. When she hurried to the hospital, doctors delivered the news that her mother had passed away.
"I immediately collapsed onto the ground. I couldn't process it," she said tearfully.
"Looking back now, I understand life and death, but I think sometimes what hurts is regret. It's the kind of regret where you realise there were things you never got to do," she continued.
Tong also revealed that her decision to leave TVB in 2022 after 19 years with the broadcaster was partly driven by her desire to make up for the past and spend more time with her loved ones.
Although she still carries regrets, Tong reiterated that she has chosen not to let them define her.
Instead, she hopes to use the time she has left to rewrite her own life story.
"I think having the ability to make corrections is very important. That's why I left the company and gave more time to myself and my family. I wanted to change my attitude towards myself and live differently from before," she said.
For the record, Tong ventured into the food industry after leaving TVB, opening her own bakery in Causeway Bay in 2023.
The actress, best known for her performances in dramas such as A Fistful Of Stances (2010) and My Unfair Lady (2017), previously revealed to Hong Kong media that she planned to shift her focus towards stage productions and screenwriting.
In 2025, Tong made her stage debut in the play Yerma and also appeared in a cameo role in the film Queen Of Mahjong.
She continues to make occasional appearances on variety shows.
