Hong Kong actor and dance pioneer Lau Siu-ming dies aged 94

Renowned Hong Kong actor and dancer Lau Siu-ming, affectionately known as Ming Sir, passed away at the age of 94, according to media reports. The city's culture chief, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law, paid tribute to Lau's exceptional artistic achievements and contributions to the cultural sector. Although the cause of his death was not disclosed, Lau had reportedly been critically ill in recent years.

Lau, born in 1931, was one of the first Hong Kong dancers to pursue formal training abroad. He studied and worked with some of the greatest artists of the time while on scholarship at l'Ecole Superieure de Danse Cannes Rosella Hightower. After returning to Hong Kong in 1967, Lau transitioned into television and film, appearing in numerous popular productions that garnered widespread acclaim. His nuanced acting and versatile image left a lasting legacy in Hong Kong's film and television culture.

Lau also founded dance and arts groups and served on the Leisure and Cultural Services Department's Art Form Panel (Dance and Multi-arts), advising on the cultivation of new artistic talent and the expansion of audiences. He received an honorary fellowship from the l'Académie de Danse in 2007 and the Hong Kong Arts Development Council's Life Achievement Award in 2019.

Lawmaker Kenneth Fok Kai-kong expressed deep sorrow over Lau's passing, recalling Lau's tight grip on his hand while in the hospital and his eagerness to share his hopes and expectations for the industry.