HONG KONG – Roy Cheung, the veteran Hong Kong actor best known for his menacing portrayal of “Crow” in the Young and Dangerous film series, celebrated his 63rd birthday on Wednesday, with longtime friend Leung Sze-ho publicly revealing that Cheung is a married man.
Cheung, who has largely retreated from the public eye in recent years, was the subject of a heartfelt social media post from Leung, a fellow actor and broadcaster. The two have been close friends for over three decades, having met while working together on the 1990 film A Wild Child’s Tale.
In a birthday tribute shared online, Leung posted a photo of the pair—showing Cheung still maintaining his signature rugged style—and included a surprising personal detail.
“I’ve known you since we were young (since we filmed A Wild Child’s Tale together), and we’ve been friends for more than 30 years. I still remember the barbecues at my place. It’s rare for you to come to Hong Kong, and it’s great we could catch up,” Leung wrote in Cantonese. “We talked about everything, with no reservations. I’m so happy to have this friendship that has grown since childhood. This was my first time meeting your wife and your mother-in-law. I really like them! Both are interesting souls. Mrs. Cheung is beautiful and gentle. Roy, happy birthday. I wish you and your wife a long and happy life together.”
The revelation puts to rest years of speculation about Cheung’s personal life. The actor was previously linked to singer-actress Lee Lai-yee and Taiwanese model Ai Yung-ling. Rumors regarding his sexuality had also circulated in the entertainment press, but Leung’s confirmation of Cheung’s marriage effectively neutralizes those long-standing claims.
Cheung rose to fame in the mid-1990s for his role as the ruthless villain Crow in the Young and Dangerous film series, a franchise that chronicled triad life in Hong Kong and became a cultural phenomenon across Asia. His intense screen presence made him one of the most recognizable antagonists in Hong Kong cinema. However, after a serious car accident in 2006 that injured his spine and led to a period of rehabilitation, Cheung gradually stepped away from the limelight.
Since then, he has maintained a low profile, occasionally attending private events with close friends while avoiding the media frenzy that once surrounded him. His fans have long wondered about his personal life, as he rarely speaks publicly about relationships or family.
Leung’s birthday post offers a rare, candid glimpse into Cheung’s current life—painted as a settled, happy family man living quietly away from the film sets and red carpets. The actor has not issued any public statement following the post, but close associates say he remains in good health and spirits.
Broader Impact and Next Steps
Cheung’s marital disclosure may reignite public interest in his legacy, particularly among fans of Hong Kong cinema’s golden era. While he has no announced plans for a return to acting, his enduring popularity suggests the door remains open for future appearances, whether in front of the camera or at fan events.
As for his private life, the actor appears content to keep it just that—private, with only trusted friends like Leung sharing occasional updates. For followers of the Young and Dangerous generation, the news offers a satisfying, peaceful chapter for a man who once played one of cinema’s most unforgettable villains.
