Hong Kong actor Bosco Wong has paid tribute to his godfather, actor lyricist Peter Lai, following his death at the age of 76 on Aug 5.
Wong, 45, was initially shocked by the news, telling Hong Kong media that he had not yet been informed by Lai's family and was still trying to process the loss.
In a statement on Thursday (Aug 6), the actor expressed his sadness while encouraging fans to remember Lai for his positive outlook and cheerful nature.
"Knowing godpa's carefree personality and the way he looked at life with a smile, I believe he would not want everyone to be unhappy.
"The classic lyrics he wrote, his film and television works, his laughter and his spirit will stay with everyone forever," Wong said.
Wong and Lai developed a close bond while working together on the 2005 TVB drama Wars Of In-Laws.
In 2022, Lai told Hong Kong media that Wong offered financial help after learning he was struggling to cover the surgery cost for his cardiovascular condition.
"He has always taken good care of me. You truly see a person's character in difficult times. There's a reason why he is so popular," Lai said then.
Wong also said: "There's not much to say between fathers and sons, if you have the ability to do something, just do it!"
Meanwhile, Lai's Come Home Love: Lo And Behold co-star Lau Dan has expressed sadness over his friend's passing.
He revealed that Lai had lost the ability to recognise people in his final days, saying: "I feel very upset. He had been ill for a long time … Perhaps this is a form of release for him."
Lai had faced a series of health challenges in recent years.
Last year, he was admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) after developing respiratory complications following influenza.
Lai was later diagnosed with anemia, diabetes and impaired kidney function, which required him to use a urinary catheter and undergo two blood transfusions.
He became bedridden after suffering a stroke earlier in March, and his condition gradually deteriorated in the months that followed.
