HONG KONG – Hong Kong actors Ron Ng and Kelly Cheung found themselves in the spotlight Monday as they promoted their new TVB drama City of Brilliance, with persistent questions about a rumoured romance leaving both stars visibly flustered. The pair, who have been dogged by dating speculation since teaming up on set, appeared awkward when photographers urged them to make heart gestures during a photo call at the promotional event.
Ng, 44, broke into a nervous sweat when journalists pressed for details on the alleged relationship. Cheung, 33, known for her outspoken personality, also showed uncharacteristic shyness. When asked directly about the romance, Cheung deflected: “Everyone should watch the drama first. In the series, we are deeply in love. After work, we take care of each other, have meals together, and discuss scripts. But there were always many crew members around. We haven’t dared to go on a date alone.”
Yet when reporters followed up on whether they would consider a solo outing, both actors replied in unison: “We’d like to!” Ng added, “Please give us some space.”
The Cat Connection
Speculation intensified after reports emerged that the pair had adopted a stray cat named “Donggu” (winter mushroom) as a romantic gesture. Ng clarified his feline collection is named after ingredients for che cheung fun (rice noodle rolls) toppings, insisting “Donggu” is not among them. “I’ve only seen photos,” he said. “But I did send homemade pet food for Donggu to try.”
Cheung, however, claimed ownership categorically: “The cat is mine, so the authority naturally lies with me. Donggu is a stray—I am his first mother. He’s currently growing up in a single-parent family, with only a mother and no father.”
Mutual Admiration
Both stars admitted readiness for new relationships. Cheung described Ng as “better than I imagined” and declared: “He’s wonderful—there’s not enough I can say.” Ng praised Cheung as “gentle, generous, beautiful, kind-hearted, professional, and caring—absolutely perfect.”
When asked if Cheung fits his ideal partner criteria, Ng only covered his mouth and smiled without answering. The question of fate between them drew a direct response: “If there were no fate, how could we have been cast together?” he said.
Friendly Banter
Jokes from fellow actor Bosco Wong, who teased Ng about being “decades old and still not dating,” prompted an immediate rebuttal. “He’s decades old too!” Ng shot back, laughing.
Ng, however, drew a firm line on privacy. “There are certainly sparks when acting,” he said. “But real life is a private matter, and I won’t disclose it. If the ratings are good, I’ll update everyone then.”
As the drama prepares to air, fans will be watching not only the on-screen chemistry but whether these co-stars take their relationship off-script. With both signalling openness and Cheung’s cat firmly in her custody, the “single-parent family” may yet gain a second parent.
