HONG KONG – A group of Hong Kong television personalities traded their usual on-screen roles for lab coats and detective badges Tuesday, promoting an upcoming health-focused variety program that aims to decode the causes, treatments and prevention of critical diseases.
Shaun Tam, Hera Chan, Lam Sau Yi and Leung Hoi Ting appeared at a press event for “Decoding Critical Illnesses,” where they portrayed investigators exploring common deadly conditions. The show, set to air on TVB, combines entertainment with medical education—bringing experts from various fields to discuss everything from cancer to heart disease.
For Chan, the event came amid lingering public curiosity about her personal life. The actress recently sparked speculation after posting “bravely accept love” on social media, following her reported breakup with actor Brian Chu. She dismissed overanalysis, explaining the message was simply lyrics from a song titled “Courage” that she performed at a charity gala.
During the press conference, Tam playfully revealed that Chan had been actively networking during filming—collecting phone numbers from doctors and professors who appeared as guests. Chan, who studied nursing before entering showbiz, acknowledged her enthusiasm for scientific research.
“I’ve always been fascinated by medical topics because of my background,” Chan said. “People tell me not to force things and love will come naturally—so I’m focusing on work for now.”
Tam offered to play matchmaker for his fellow artist, noting they share the same manager and have known each other for years. “I’ll help screen candidates—looking for honest, humorous guys,” he joked. Chan added that while her list of preferences isn’t exhaustive, she draws a firm line at men who smoke.
Beyond the lighthearted banter, the stars emphasized the show’s serious mission. Tam, a father of two, revealed he bought life insurance for his children the day they were born. “Leaving them cash is fine, but it can be spent. Protecting their health is the most important legacy,” he said.
The actor also stressed the value of regular health screenings, urging viewers to adopt preventive measures against hidden conditions.
Meanwhile, Lam Sau Yi brought a personal touch to the event. Her boyfriend of nine years, former TVB director Leung Kai-ching, visited the set and served as her personal photographer. When reporters pressed about marriage plans, the 35-year-old actress laughed it off.
“We’ve lived together for four or five years, and he’s already part of the family,” Lam said. “Marriage is just a ceremony—what matters is long-term companionship.” She added that while the couple has no immediate plans for children, they are considering egg freezing as a safeguard against future regret.
“Decoding Critical Illnesses” is expected to air later this year, with each episode featuring real patient stories, expert interviews and practical prevention tips. The format aims to address a growing public appetite for accessible health information in a region where lifestyle diseases are on the rise.
As Hong Kong’s entertainment industry increasingly pivots to content that informs as well as entertains, shows like this represent a shift toward edutainment—blending celebrity appeal with actionable knowledge. For the stars involved, it’s also a chance to use their platforms for public good, one medical mystery at a time.
