HONG KONG – Raymond Yuen Tak-cheung, the son of celebrated Cantonese opera performers Yuen Siu-fai and Wan Fei-yin, announced his divorce from his wife, former actress and current public broadcaster RTHK DJ Gigi Lam Sze-man, on social media this week, several days after confirming his departure from RTHK. The couple, who married in 2018 and welcomed their daughter later that year, formalized their separation in 2023. Yuen confirmed that their daughter, Ching-hang, will reside with him.
The notable figure in Hong Kong’s performing arts scene made the dual disclosures just days apart, initiating a temporary professional hiatus to address his personal affairs. On his social media platform, Yuen stated the necessity of prioritizing his family life, acknowledging that his professional commitments had delayed the public announcement until now.
Yuen offered a philosophical perspective on the dissolution of the marriage, framing it as the natural conclusion to a theatrical production. “Divorce has never been about finding a specific reason or justification,” he wrote, suggesting that regardless of the eloquence or high-minded rationale used, the ultimate purpose is simply “to end a performance, to conclude a relationship.” He expressed deep gratitude to his ex-wife for her support and contributions to their family during their time together.
Using evocative analogies, Yuen likened Lam’s presence in his life to a benevolent intervention intended to heal childhood emotional pain. He suggested that with this “merit achieved,” it was time for the chapter to close. He also conveyed appreciation for the gift of their daughter, admitting that her presence is vital for him to “keep going.” “I may never have been your Mr. Right,” he expressed to Lam, “but thank you for leaving our daughter to accompany me and help me continue this journey. Indeed, I truly need my daughter to sustain myself.”
The announcement comes amidst a period of personal and professional transition for Yuen. He thanked mentors, bosses, and friends for their concern, noting that the timing of the separation coincided with his busiest professional schedule, which complicated his ability to respond immediately. Yuen emphasized his immediate focus on protecting his daughter and navigating this difficult period together. Employing a metaphor related to his astrological sign, he described their approach: “We can only utilize the natural tenacity of the Cancer sign, leaning on a strong exterior shell for support and mutual encouragement.”
Concluding his message, Yuen extended his best wishes to Lam, wishing her success in finding the life she desires. He reaffirmed his enduring commitment to their child, stating that while the form of his love has changed, the love itself remains unconditional and without expiration. “In matters concerning parents, there is no right or wrong,” he concluded, reinforcing a joint commitment to co-parenting.
The announcement serves as a reminder of the complexities of balancing high-profile careers and personal life within Hong Kong’s entertainment and arts sphere. Both Yuen and Lam hail from backgrounds closely tied to the city’s broadcast and theatrical traditions, making their personal developments a subject of public interest. Experts suggest that such transparent, albeit painful, communication can set a thoughtful precedent for navigating celebrity divorces in the public eye. Yuen is expected to detail his return to professional work in the coming months after his self-declared respite.
