During her appearance on the talk show “Nine Guest Room 2”, veteran actress Harriet Yeung disclosed exclusive inside stories about how she selected male leads for her films, including launching Alex Fong’s career and choosing William Chan for a major role.
The show has been a trending topic since its second episode, with netizens eagerly awaiting each guest’s revelations. Its format encourages celebrities to speak candidly, making it a hit. Since its broadcast, it has sparked online debates and fueled anticipation for insider stories. In its third week, Yeung, a star from Hong Kong’s golden film era, provided intimate and revealing behind-the-scenes details.
Casting Alex Fong in ‘The Twilight of a Nation’
Yeung discussed the 1987 film “The Twilight of a Nation”, where she was asked to choose her romance partner from three actors. “The producer instructed me to pick someone who had a ‘feel’. I went with Fu Lik because he seemed more stylish,” she said. She also played a role in his name change. “The novel and film character was named Fong Chung Yan. I thought both our names were old-fashioned, so I suggested he adopt it. That name brought him fame,” she explained, adding that she praised his natural talent and believed he had potential.
Selecting William Chan for ‘A Woman’s Revenge’
For her 2011 comeback film “A Woman’s Revenge”, produced by Jacky Woo, Yeung again participated in the casting process. The shortlist included three or four actors, such as Jacky Heung, Chow Pak Ho, and William Chan. “William was a newcomer and had free time, so we scheduled him first. I flew from Shanghai to Hong Kong for the meeting,” she recalled. She was immediately captivated by his physique, exclaiming, “I was amazed by his body!” This comment drew laughter from co-guest Josephine Wu, who heartily echoed her sentiments.
Impact and Reception
Yeung’s stories highlight how actors often influence creative decisions in filmmaking. Both Fong and Chan have since become successful figures in the industry. The episode has sparked extensive online discussions, with viewers praising Yeung’s honesty. It trended on social media, with many users sharing their thoughts on her casting choices. As “Nine Guest Room 2” continues to air such revelations, it is expected to keep its audience engaged with exclusive content, underscoring the public’s interest in behind-the-scenes stories. These anecdotes offer a rare window into the informal aspects of film production, revealing the personal touch that can define careers.
