HONG KONG – Veteran Hong Kong actor Hu Fung, affectionately known as “Brother Fu,” has revealed he was hospitalized in intensive care and slipped into a four-day coma after suffering a severe bile duct infection, contradicting earlier reports that he was only battling COVID-19.
In a video posted on social media Tuesday, the 94-year-old entertainment icon, accompanied by his daughter-in-law JoJo, disclosed he was admitted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital’s intensive care unit for acute cholangitis. The condition, triggered by a gallstone blocking the bile duct, caused a life-threatening infection that required him to be intubated and sedated.
Hu’s family initially told the media he had tested positive for the coronavirus, a move he explained was to shield him from reporters and allow him to recover without disturbance.
“I was in heaven for a short while,” Hu said, quoting his attending physician during a conversation recorded in the video. The doctor explained that the bile duct infection can lead to severe complications, including bacteria entering the bloodstream and causing sepsis—a condition that has proved fatal for many patients. Medical staff performed emergency surgery to clear the blocked duct and later removed his gallbladder to prevent recurrence.
Describing the moment he regained consciousness, Hu said, “When I opened my eyes, everything looked unfamiliar. The medical staff asked me my name. When I answered correctly, they were thrilled. But I was in great pain because they had tied me up like a restraint to stop me from accidentally touching the tubes in my face and chest.”
Despite the ordeal, Hu expressed profound gratitude to the medical team. In his groggy and dreamlike state, he said, he was flooded with images of loved ones and supporters.
“My family, my children, my daughter-in-law, my siblings, and all my friends—I wanted to see them again,” he recalled. “My mind was filled with their caring gestures and the encouraging messages from fans online. In my dreams, I kept telling myself I had to meet my good friends and family one more time. Now I have. I will keep chatting and seeing everyone.”
Hu, a beloved figure in Hong Kong cinema and television known for his longevity and prolific career, concluded by thanking his friends who had served as guest performers at his concerts over the years. He did not specify when he was discharged but appeared alert and in stable spirits in the video.
The entertainer’s health scare underscores the risks of acute cholangitis in elderly patients, where delayed treatment can quickly escalate. The incident has drawn an outpouring of support from fans and fellow artists across the Chinese-speaking entertainment world.
Looking ahead, Hu’s recovery marks a poignant comeback for the nonagenarian performer, who has vowed to continue his public engagements and maintain his connection with his audience.
