HONG KONG – A new forensic drama set to premiere on TVB next month promises a blend of crime-solving rigor and emotional depth, centering on a rookie forensic pathologist with obsessive-compulsive disorder who must confront the ultimate professional and personal test: performing an autopsy on her own best friend.
Titled Dead Evidence (死有對証), the 20-episode series will air weeknights at 8:30 p.m. on Jade, starting September 7. Produced by veteran Wong Wai-sing, the show stars Selena Lee as Cheng Tsz-yan, a driven but socially awkward female forensic doctor; Ma Kwun-tung as impulsive detective Ko Chun; and Jinny Ng as the tragic best friend, Sin Pui-ka. The cast also includes veteran actor Wai Ka-hung, along with Yuen Ho-chung, Chan Hei-tung, Wong Yee-kam, Wang Fei, Hui Chun-ho, and Kelly Wong.
The story follows Cheng, a “P-plate” (probationary) forensic pathologist whose childhood trauma fuels an obsessive need for order. She finds herself sidelined by her sharp-tongued, cynical superior, Lam Sum (played by Wai Ka-hung). After a tense beginning, she and the hot-headed detective Ko forge an uneasy alliance, unraveling bizarre cases while uncovering shades of human morality.
Behind the Scenes: Bringing OCD to Life
In a recent interview, Selena Lee revealed the lengths she took to embody her character’s compulsive traits. “I bought books on OCD,” she said. “I learned that it’s not just about behavior—it’s also about thought patterns. People might keep asking ‘why,’ keep repeating questions or phrases.” To prepare, she gradually altered her daily habits, meticulously organizing her belongings and training her mind to dig for answers like her character. “Cheng Tsz-yan loves to get to the bottom of things,” she explained. “She really wants to find the truth.”
Lee noted that during filming, she felt herself becoming “a bit withdrawn.” “Most of my meal breaks and rest times, I’d hide away,” she said, adding that the crew carefully designed her character’s sleek, symmetrical hairstyle and accessories to visually reinforce the OCD trait.
A Heart-Wrenching Premise
A promotional trailer released this week reveals a pivotal plot twist: Jinny Ng’s character, Sin Pui-ka, is killed, forcing Cheng to conduct the autopsy on her closest confidante. Lee admitted she broke down while watching the clip. “It’s too vivid, having to dissect your best friend,” she said, her voice choking with emotion. “That friend brought so much happiness to the lonely Cheng. I hope the audience feels that pain in our friendship.”
Despite the sorrowful storyline, Lee stressed the series carries a hopeful message. “Sad things happen, but you have to face them and be strong,” she said.
A Rising Star’s Momentum
Selena Lee, a Miss Hong Kong 2018 contestant, has steadily built her acting credentials. While Dead Evidence marks her latest lead role, she has recently earned praise for performances in The Queen of News and Kim’s Forest. Her portrayal of a methodical, isolated forensic expert underscores a growing trend in Hong Kong television toward character-driven, psychologically nuanced crime dramas.
