HONG KONG – Veteran broadcaster Stephen Chan Wai-yun returned to the spotlight Tuesday night at Commercial Radio’s 67th anniversary gala, fresh off a trip to the United Kingdom. The 65-year-old former TVB executive, known for his flamboyant fashion sense, revealed he is now taking singing lessons with plans to launch a music career.
Chan, who attended the event at a Hong Kong hotel, said his travels abroad reinforced his love for bold style. While dining in a UK restaurant, he was approached by strangers complimenting his outfit. “I initially thought they were trying to chat me up,” he joked. Chan disclosed he spends between six and seven figures annually on clothing, arguing that life is too short not to indulge. “You never know when your time is up,” he said.
From Fashion Icon to Aspiring Singer
Chan’s distinctive look—including oversized glasses, colorful suits, and statement earrings—has earned him the nickname “Hong Kong’s Elton John” from netizens. Some fans have even digitally superimposed Chan’s earrings onto younger heartthrob Jeffrey Ngai’s photos for comparison. Chan took the comparisons in stride. “Being given a title by others is a form of praise,” he said. “If I could have even half of Elton John’s talent, I would be very happy.” He added, “Jeffrey is a recognized male god. Putting my clothes on him is an honor to me. Putting his clothes on me would be an insult to him.”
Chan confirmed he is currently studying vocals with a coach, exploring a musical style that suits him, with the goal of performing on Commercial Radio’s prestigious Ultimate Song Chart Awards stage. “It might not happen next year,” he admitted. “I’m still working with my teacher to find the right direction.”
Industry Support and Skepticism
Radio veteran and fellow presenter Sammy Leung expressed excitement over Chan’s ambition. “Perhaps Midlife Singing was put on hold for a year just to wait for him—to give him time to practice,” Leung said, referring to the popular TVB singing competition. However, Leung stopped short of endorsing Chan for rival show Sing! China, saying he had never heard Chan sing and feared pitch problems. “If he releases a song called ‘I Wear Gold Earrings,’ I’ll at least play it twice on my show,” Leung quipped.
Broader Implications
Chan’s pivot to music marks a new chapter for a figure who has weathered professional and personal storms. Once the highest-paid TV host in Hong Kong, he was acquitted in 2015 of bribery charges that had derailed his career. His reinvention as a fashion influencer and now singer reflects a broader trend of veteran entertainers launching second acts in Hong Kong’s competitive entertainment industry. While the road to the awards stage remains uncertain, Chan’s willingness to embrace risk—both in wardrobe and career—continues to captivate audiences.
