Hong Kong, June 1—Prominent actors from the anticipated television drama The Unresolved gathered today for a promotional event, where veteran star Joe Ma revealed he manages a significant chronic health condition while maintaining a challenging career. During the event alongside co-stars Winki Lai, Hera Chan, Ricco Ng, and Yoyo Tse, Ma executed a difficult, single-leg, arched-back pose—an action he admitted required assistance due to his lifelong battle with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
Ma, known for his roles in demanding action sequences, shared that the inflammatory disease, which primarily affects the spine, presents daily challenges and contributes to his infrequent back exercises. He noted that while severe cases of AS can tragically lead to early mortality, symptoms typically stabilize after age 40. Despite this, he manages his condition with medication and credits his generally good physical health, though he acknowledged a slightly slower metabolism presents a minor complication.
Managing Chronic Illness in the Spotlight
The actor took the opportunity to dispel rumors that his recent decision to operate as a temporary freelancer, rather than a contract artist with the network, was medically motivated. Ma emphasized that he has successfully filmed numerous physically taxing projects, including the Flying Tiger series, without issue.
“I am currently temporarily free. I hope to have the chance to collaborate with the fantastic cast and crew of The Unresolved again, perhaps on a period drama,” Ma stated, expressing enthusiasm for future projects.
The revelation about Ma’s AS diagnosis came as a surprise to his colleagues, including Lai and Chan. Lai, who portrays a strikingly sexy character in the series, joked that while flaunting her legs was easy, the true challenge was performing the role’s seductive nature. She expressed confidence that her performance had impressed the drama’s producer. Chan, wishing her role offered similar opportunities, praised Lai’s “pleasing” legs and expressed desires for a future character that showcases her own “true charisma.”
On-Screen Chemistry Sparks Discussion
The promotional event also highlighted the intense on-screen dynamics between young stars Ng and Tse. Ng became the victim of a playful prank when Tse jokingly painted his face with lipstick—a move Tse quickly blamed on the production team, laughing that any real revenge should be aimed at the producer.
Tse addressed online commentary regarding her character’s forwardness during a bedroom scene with Ng, where some viewers labeled her depiction as “overly eager” or “clutchy.”
“My character was intentionally the aggressive one in that scene,” Tse explained. “I’m relieved that the audience noticed it. I admit I was initially embarrassed during the filming, but the cameraman’s assistance in blocking the movements helped create the proper atmosphere.”
Ng agreed, saying the initial awkwardness quickly turned into shared laughter during filming. He teased that viewers should anticipate even more intimate moments ahead, leaving the specifics—including any potential kissing scenes—for the audience to discover. Both Ng and Tse echoed Ma’s hope to reunite for a costume drama, with Tse noting her “heroic” look might suit an androgynous role, and Ng chiming in that he wouldn’t mind cross-dressing again, albeit clarifying he hadn’t developed an obsession with the practice.
The enthusiasm for future collaboration among the cast suggests a strong bond formed during the production of The Unresolved, extending beyond the screen and hinting at the depth of talent navigating the often-intense world of serialized drama. Ma’s candid disclosure provides a powerful example of how professionals manage serious health conditions while excelling in demanding fields.
