HK actor Sammo Hung, 74, has no plans to fully retire despite age-related mobility issues


Sammo Hung said he will continue to work for as long as he can speak and think. Photos: Hong Kong Film Awards Association, Sammo Hung/Douyin

Hong Kong action star Sammo Hung has no plans to retire from the entertainment industry, despite scaling back his acting commitments in recent years due to age-related mobility issues.

The 74-year-old remains involved in showbiz through occasional public appearances and livestream sessions, underscoring his dedication to stay active.

Hung recently travelled to Guangzhou, China, for work.

In a video shared on Douyin, the Chinese counterpart of TikTok, he was seen diligently signing autographs despite relying on an electric wheelchair to get around.

Having spent decades performing physically demanding martial arts stunts, Hung has suffered from longstanding injuries that have taken a toll on his body.

Combined with the effects of ageing, these injuries eventually led him to undergo knee surgery in 2017.

His physical condition subsequently prompted him to reduce his on-screen appearances and adopt a semi-retired lifestyle, although he has repeatedly made it clear that he is not ready to call it quits.

During a 2020 variety show appearance, Hung said he was not ready to retire as he was still capable of working.

“Many people have asked me to retire, but why should I? Firstly, I can still speak and scold people. Second, I can still think. Isn’t that why God gave me these abilities?

“As long as I can work and think, I’ll keep doing it. When I have truly deteriorated and no longer want to embarrass myself, then I’ll retire,” he said.

The Ip Man 2 (2010) star reaffirmed his determination to stay in the industry during a masterclass at the 37th Tokyo International Film Festival in 2024.

Asked why he continued working instead of retiring, he answered: “I feel most comfortable when I’m working.”

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