Veteran Hong Kong actor Lau Dan addressed a broad range of personal and professional topics during a media appearance Monday alongside Come Home Love co-star Ma Hoi Lun. The 79-year-old television icon shared his support for his son Hawick’s new relationship, spoke candidly about the rocky debut of their replacement sitcom, and offered an emotional glimpse into the realities of caring for aging parents.
A Father’s Blessing
The entertainment world has been abuzz since 52-year-old actor Hawick Lau confirmed his relationship with model Li Ji Jun, who is 20 years his junior. Lau Dan confirmed the family has already dined with her. “My feelings are not the important thing here,” he said, beaming. “What matters most is my son’s happiness. This is their business. You cannot force these things; they must develop naturally.”
He noted that both he and his wife came away with a favorable impression. “As long as he is happy, I am happy,” he added.
A Rocky Start
The conversation quickly shifted to the small screen. The pair are currently starring in Come Home Love: Three Generations of Sweets, tasked with replacing the immensely popular Come Home Love: Loaf On.
The new show has struggled in the ratings, prompting the network to bring in original Loaf On cast members to boost viewership. Ma Hoi Lun urged patience, drawing a parallel to the period when The Good Fella was replaced decades ago. “Audiences simply need time to adapt,” she said. “It was the same situation back then.”
Lau Dan agreed, noting the new cast initially lacked experience with the specific demands of a daily sitcom. “They were a bit stiff in the beginning, but you can see the progress with every episode.”
The Cost of Fame
The atmosphere lightened when the topic turned to budget rumors. Comedian Ling Heung previously joked that Lau Dan’s salary equaled that of ten regular actors, fueling speculation that the old show was canceled due to high payroll costs.
Ma Hoi Lun playfully ribbed her colleague at the event. “Your salary is too high. You are the most expensive one here!” she laughed.
Lau Dan dismissed the rumors outright. “It is a complete misunderstanding,” he stated. “Would anyone really believe a joke like that? A major broadcaster would not shut down a successful show over payroll.”
Ma Hoi Lun backed him, noting the network can clearly handle the finances while adding with a smile that her own cleaner character earns significantly less than the main “Bear Family” cast.
Facing Life’s Realities
The tone grew serious as Ma Hoi Lun shared a harrowing personal story. Her 100-year-old mother fell from her bed in the middle of the night, suffering a swollen face and a broken arm that required emergency surgery.
“I was terrified when I got that phone call,” she recalled, her voice hardening with the memory.
Since the accident, she has installed specialized home safety equipment for elderly residents. Despite the scare, she expressed gratitude. “She is still so mentally sharp. Caring for her is no burden at all.”
Lau Dan nodded in agreement, adding that he has personally tested products designed to improve senior safety and independence.
The appearance offered a rare look at the layered lives of two beloved television figures, weaving family celebrations, industry pressures, and the universal challenge of elder care into a single, compelling conversation.
