Lede
Hong Kong actress Michelle Wai suffered a serious facial injury while filming the television series The Hunt over the weekend, requiring more than 50 stitches to her mouth and lips. The 37-year-old performer took to Instagram on Thursday evening to reassure fans and apologize for any disruption to the production schedule.
Accident and Immediate Response
Wai, known for roles in Tracey and Sisters, was reportedly injured during a stunt or action sequence on the set of the crime drama The Hunt (Chinese title: 狩謊). The exact nature of the accident has not been disclosed, but sources close to the production confirmed that the actress was immediately rushed to a hospital for emergency treatment.
In a story posted to her Instagram account Thursday, Wai wrote: “Thank you all for your concern. I am grateful to the plastic surgeon, the anesthesiologist, and all the medical staff for their help. The surgery went very smoothly, and I am sure I will recover soon.”
She added a direct apology to the cast and crew: “Once again, I want to apologize to all the production team and to any clients whose shooting schedules may have been affected. I will do my best to heal my wound and my body so that I can return to work as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding.”
Recovery and Medical Details
The actress is now recuperating at home. According to local media reports, the lip and mouth injuries required a total of more than 50 sutures, a figure that underscores the severity of the incident. Wai specifically thanked the plastic surgeon, indicating that the procedure likely involved careful cosmetic repair to minimize scarring on such a sensitive area.
No official statement from the production company, TVB or any affiliated studio, has been released as of Friday morning. Industry insiders, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the set of The Hunt has temporarily paused filming of scenes involving Wai while she recovers.
Broader Implications for the Industry
On-set injuries remain a persistent concern in Hong Kong’s film and television sector, which often relies on high-intensity action sequences with limited safety breaks. The Hong Kong Actors’ Association has periodically called for stricter safety protocols, particularly for stunt work and fight choreography.
Wai’s case is the latest in a string of high-profile on-set accidents in the region. In 2023, actor Anthony Wong suffered a leg fracture during a chase scene, and stunt performer Marsha Yuan required facial surgery after a pyrotechnics mishap in 2022. These incidents have reignited discussions about workplace safety standards and the need for mandatory on-set medical personnel.
What’s Next
Wai’s fans have flooded social media with get-well messages, while industry colleagues expressed support. The actress has not disclosed a timeline for her return, but medical experts suggest that recovery from such extensive facial stitching typically takes two to four weeks for initial healing, with follow-up scar management lasting months.
The Hunt, a psychological thriller about a serial liar and a detective, was expected to wrap principal photography by late summer. The production may need to reshoot or adjust scenes involving Wai, potentially delaying the release date. For now, the priority remains the actress’s full recovery.
