Veteran Hong Kong actress Helena Law Lan, whose recent health issues have prompted widespread concern, appeared vibrant and cheerful in a recent social media photo, offering relief to her dedicated fanbase. Shared yesterday by actor Andy Cheung Kwok-keung, the image captured the two enjoying tea and playfully posing, showcasing the 91-year-old star’s remarkably strong spirits following a series of public health setbacks.
Law Lan, a highly respected figure in the Hong Kong entertainment industry and formerly the oldest contract female artiste at TVB, has faced escalating public scrutiny regarding her physical wellbeing. Concerns were initially heightened last year when she was admitted to the hospital following a fall at her home, an incident that necessitated the use of a walking stick for mobility thereafter. Her absence from fellow veteran actor Woo Fung’s 94th birthday celebration further fueled speculation about her condition.
The fall, which Law Lan later detailed in an interview, occurred several months ago when she rushed to answer a telephone call. The resulting pain left her unable to stand, requiring domestic assistance to call an ambulance. She subsequently spent eight days receiving physical therapy and comprehensive medical checks. Despite the scare, Law Lan maintained that her overall health indicators remain positive.
Addressing specific health rumors, she debunked claims of severe foot swelling or complications like varicose veins. While attending a promotional event for the drama Golden Forest last year, where she was visibly slowed by the use of her cane and mistakenly referred to the drama’s name as “Black Forest,” her physical difficulties were palpable. However, she clarified that a perceived ankle indentation widely noted by the press was merely the result of tight costume socks and not an indication of underlying oedema. Law Lan has consistently asserted that she does not suffer from hypertension, high cholesterol, or high blood sugar, often referred to as “the three highs,” and that her overall bodily functions are normal despite the general aches associated with advanced age.
In the photographs shared by Cheung, Law Lan is seen engaging enthusiastically, striking poses such as the “heart” hand gesture, cheek resting, and pouting expressions. Cheung humorously captioned the post, detailing how Law Lan was “seriously teaching me how to pose for photos.” The positive visual confirmation has significantly assuaged anxieties among netizens who have closely followed her recent struggles.
Law Lan marked her departure from TVB late last year after her contract expired. While her recent public appearances have often required the aid of a cane and the support of nervous colleagues fearing another fall, the recent pictures depict a renewed vitality.
The collective sigh of relief online underscores the deep affection and respect the public holds for Law Lan, whose long and storied career has cemented her status as a cultural icon. Her active engagement and mental clarity, despite the physical challenges of aging, serve as an uplifting message for both her contemporaries and fans alike. Moving forward, the focus will likely shift to monitoring her continued enjoyment of her well-deserved semi-retirement.
