Veteran Hong Kong comedian Lo Hoi-pang (known affectionately as “Pang Gor”) marked a significant milestone today with his Lo Hoi-pang: End of the Mic concert held at the Tsim Sha Tsui Cultural Centre. Adding star power to the occasion, cinema icon Chow Yun-fat paid a backstage visit just before the performance, presenting a ceremonial lai see (red packet) wishing him luck for a successful show.
The beloved performer revealed that while he previously trained with Chow Yun-fat’s famed running group, he has since shifted to a dedicated personal routine to ensure peak condition for his demanding concert schedule.
Upholding Stamina with Solo Runs
Responding to queries about training with Chow Yun-fat, who is renowned for his marathon running, Lo emphasized his commitment to self-discipline. “I don’t need to run with him now; I run by myself on a nearby platform every morning,” Pang Gor stated. “If I don’t run, how can I sustain my voice? No running means no energy. Running builds my stamina and voice control, and keeps me healthy—I haven’t even been sick.”
Lo remarked that ‘Fat Gor’ is often preoccupied with marathon training, making scheduled runs difficult. While appreciating the fitness culture, the septuagenarian performer dismissed the notion of taking up marathon running himself. “I simply don’t have the capacity,” Lo admitted. “At my age, running fast risks cardiac issues.”
The celebrated actor also touched upon the unpredictable nature of life following the recent death of fellow martial arts star, Leung Siu-lung, whom he knew personally. “We would often have tea in Mong Kok, and the news was truly shocking,” he said, reflecting on the fragility of even physically-fit individuals.
Peer Support and the Infamous “Mic Test”
Lo Hoi-pang’s dedication to his craft and his generosity towards rising stars were lauded by longtime friends and former television co-stars, Felix Wong and Michael Miu. Both praised the care and support they received from Lo in their younger days, noting that they, along with Chow Yun-fat, took turns driving him to his running sessions. However, Lo opted for solo training to avoid inconveniencing his busy friends.
“He runs by himself now because it’s convenient near home, running for an hour daily,” Miu shared, confirming that their “running squad” continues to maintain its fitness regimen.
Wong also humorously recounted an intense moment from his training days, referencing Lo’s legendary ability to deliver sharp, unvarnished critiques—a trait unofficially dubbed the “mic test” among industry members. Wong recalled struggling to deliver an emotional line during a late-night shoot for the drama The Invincible. “He was quicker than the director to call me out on the mic,” Wong recounted, noting that the line was ultimately passed to actor Lee Sing-cheung to prevent production delays. Wong confessed, “I wanted to disappear right then.” Miu joked that his own imposing early stature meant he simply glared back when Lo attempted a “mic test” on him.
Post-Concert Pause and Healthy Living
Following the concert, Lo Hoi-pang confirmed he plans to take a much-needed break. He recently completed three days of filming for a new Johnnie To feature, but production is currently paused, leaving the future schedule uncertain.
Meanwhile, Felix Wong discussed a recent trip with the celebrity football team to Yunnan, where he experienced minor altitude sickness, leading to two nights of insomnia. He humorously clarified that while beautiful local women offer wine as part of a traditional welcoming ceremony in Yunnan, his personal abstinence from alcohol means he politely declined the offers.
Michael Miu commented on the activities of fellow industry giant Eric Tsang, who is keeping busy with regular football practice while taking a professional pause. Miu concluded: “Keeping busy and occupied is excellent for health and longevity. After decades in the industry, it is a great time to focus on well-being.” The enduring camaraderie and focus on healthy living among these veteran performers underscore their lasting careers and ability to contribute enduringly to the entertainment landscape.
