Damian Lau was born on October 14th, 1949

Written by: Jack Thompson

Damian Lau: The Iconic Hong Kong Actor and Producer

Damian Lau is a household name in Hong Kong, renowned for his versatile acting skills and impressive filmography, spanning over four decades. He is best known for his iconic portrayal of characters in television drama series and Wuxia films, cementing his status as a legendary figure in the Hong Kong entertainment industry.

Early Career and Rise to Fame

Lau's journey in the entertainment industry began in 1971 when he enrolled in the actors' training class of RTV (now ATV). He started his early acting career, which eventually led him to join TVB in 1976. His breakthrough role came in the same year, playing the titular character in the adaptation of Wuxia writer Gu Long's novel series, Luk Siufung. His outstanding performance in Yesterdays Glitter further solidified his fame.

Partnership with Michelle Yim and Notable Works

In 1980, Lau returned to ATV, where he collaborated with actress Michelle Yim in several TV series, including Fatherland, Chronicles of the Shadow Swordsman, and Rise of the Great Wall. This partnership led to some of the most memorable on-screen pairings in Hong Kong television history.

Lau's film career took off in the 1980s and 1990s, with notable roles in Wuxia films such as Last Hurrah for Chivalry (1979) and Duel to the Death. His character's iconic duel with Norman Chui's character in the latter film remains one of the most celebrated sword duels in Wuxia film history.

Awards and Accolades

In 2006, Lau starred in The Tokyo Trial, a controversial yet critically acclaimed film that earned a nomination at the Cannes Film Festival and won the 2007 Golden Rooster Awards for Best Screenplay. For his portrayal of Judge Mei Juao in the film, Lau delivered most of his lines in English for the first time, showcasing his impressive linguistic skills.

Career Highlights and Legacy

Damian Lau's contributions to the Hong Kong entertainment industry have been immense, with a career spanning over 40 years. He has worked with some of the most prominent filmmakers and actors in the industry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of Wuxia cinema and television drama series. Lau's legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors and filmmakers, solidifying his position as a true legend in the Hong Kong entertainment industry.

Personal Milestones and Key Life Events

• 1949: Born on October 14th in Hong Kong
• 1971: Enrolled in the actors' training class of RTV (now ATV)
• 1976: Joined TVB and rose to fame with the role of Luk Siufung
• 1980: Returned to ATV and began collaborating with Michelle Yim
• 2006: Starred in The Tokyo Trial, a Cannes Film Festival-nominated film

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Damian Lau is known for his versatility in playing characters from various genres, including Wuxia, drama, and comedy.
• He has worked with some of the most prominent filmmakers in Hong Kong, including John Woo and Tsui Hark.
• Lau has been celebrated for his charitable work, particularly in the area of education and children's welfare.