Veteran Hong Kong Actor Stanley Fung Dies at 81

HONG KONG — Beloved Hong Kong actor and film director Stanley Fung has passed away at the age of 81. Known for his sharp comedic timing and warm on-screen presence, Fung died on November 1, following a prolonged illness.

According to Hong Kong news media outlet Hong Kong Economic Times (HKET), news of Fung’s passing first surfaced after New Taipei City Councillor Tsai Shu-chun shared the announcement on her Facebook page.

Stanley Fung

Stanley Fung Shui-fan (June 1, 1945 – October 31, 2025) was a Hong Kong actor and film director known for playing comedic roles. He was one of the Lucky Stars.

The news was first announced by New Taipei City Councillor Tsai Shu-chun on her Facebook page early Saturday morning. In her heartfelt post, she wrote in Chinese:

“I heard the news two hours ago and my heart sank. His words were expressive and his smiles told stories. He was sincere and endearing both on and off camera… May you continue to tell stories and capture life on another stage, still with that smile.”

According to TOPick Hong Kong, Fung had been hospitalised for two months and was relying on a nasal tube and oxygen machine for breathing.

Fung’s passing comes just days after he paid tribute to his close friend, veteran actor Benz Hui, who died on October 28 from multiple organ failure caused by cancer. In his final Facebook post, Fung wrote poignantly:

“We must part ways eventually, but I’m older than you and terminally ill, barely clinging to life.”

A Storied Career in Hong Kong Cinema

Stanley Fung began his acting career in the 1970s, quickly becoming one of Hong Kong’s most recognisable comedic talents. He was a key member of the Lucky Stars movie series, alongside other Hong Kong film icons such as Sammo Hung, Jackie Chan, and Richard Ng.

He also starred in popular titles like The Romancing Star, further cementing his place in the golden era of Hong Kong cinema. Fung later transitioned to directing and continued to contribute to the film industry for decades.

Filmography

His final film appearance was in the Taiwanese horror film Them, Behind the Door, released in 2024.

Remembering a Legend

Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry, celebrating Fung’s humour, humility, and dedication to his craft. Fans remember him as a versatile actor whose performances brought laughter and warmth to countless audiences.

Stanley Fung leaves behind a lasting legacy in the world of Hong Kong film — a storyteller whose charm and humanity transcended the screen.