HONG KONG – Actress Alice Chan hosted a cast dinner Wednesday night to celebrate the strong reception of her TVB drama “Unlawful Justice,” while also grappling with the recent loss of a veteran producer who shaped her career.
Chan, alongside co-stars Moon Lau, Phoebe Ho, James Yuen, Brian Ng and production crew, gathered for a meal she personally funded after the anthology series earned widespread acclaim for its individual story arcs. The actress expressed hope that if the show returns for a second season, she would explore playing a villain alongside actors from other units. “A gathering of bad guys would definitely be thrilling,” she joked.
The celebratory mood was tempered by the passing of Leung Choi-yuen, a former senior TVB producer and drama production manager known affectionately as “Choi Suk.” Chan described him as a mentor and dear friend, saying his death has left her deeply saddened.
“I’ve lost a great teacher and friend who guided me for many years,” Chan said. She noted that veteran actor Kent Cheng was Leung’s go-to performer, and because she and Cheng shared a close bond, Leung took her under his wing. “We often met privately,” she added.
The actress also addressed the recent departure of her close friend Rebecca Zhu, who left TVB after her contract expired. Chan expressed full support for Zhu, calling her young and highly talented, capable of thriving anywhere she chooses. Asked about Zhu’s earlier revelation of a romantic partner, Chan said she is unaware of any wedding plans. “I don’t know yet—I’m waiting for her to nod. Have I met her special someone? Well, as long as she’s happy. I told her to have a baby soon,” Chan said with a smile.
Background and Industry Context
“Unlawful Justice,” which aired earlier this year, presents multiple crime-based narratives, each featuring different casts. The series has been praised for its tight plotting and strong ensemble performances, boosting expectations for a potential sequel.
Leung Choi-yuen, who passed away in late March, was a respected figure in Hong Kong television. Over decades at TVB, he produced iconic dramas including “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” and “The Breaking Point,” known for grooming numerous acting talents.
Zhu’s exit from TVB marks a notable shift, as she was considered one of the network’s rising stars. Her departure follows a wave of contract non-renewals among local actors, reflecting broader industry changes as streaming platforms and mainland Chinese productions lure talent with higher pay and creative flexibility.
Looking Ahead
Chan, a veteran with over two decades in the industry, remains active in both television and film. She hinted at future collaborations with younger actors and expressed eagerness to take on more challenging roles, particularly antagonists. “Playing a villain allows you to explore darker, more layered emotions,” she noted.
For fans of Hong Kong drama, “Unlawful Justice” is available on TVB’s streaming service. Industry observers will watch closely for sequel announcements and for Zhu’s next career move, which could see her expand into mainland or independent projects.
