Wu Ma dies at 71
5 Feb – Hong Kong director and actor Wu Ma passed away last Tuesday from complications due to lung cancer at 71 years old.
Wu Ma's wife said his health took a turn for the worse about ten months ago when the cancer spread. However, she said that he remained cheerful in spite of this, and managed to make the most of the time he had.
He is best known for his memorable role as a Taoist priest in director Tsui Hark's classic 1987 film "A Chinese Ghost Story" and its sequel, "A Chinese Ghost Story 2" in 1990. His performance in the film snagged him a Golden Horse award for Best Supporting Actor that year.
Born on September 22 1944 in Tian Jin, China, he immigrated to Hong Kong in the 1960s and began his movie career working within the Shaw Brothers Studios. Wu changed his birth name of Hong Yuan Feng to Wu Ma because it reflected upon his Chinese Horoscope animal the horse. During his time there, Wu became a comedic character actor due to his unusual look and also directed several pictures.
"My respectful teacher Wu Ma, rest in peace. I am proud of knowing you in the (television drama) "Fu Rongjin", it was a happy collaboration," says actor Damian Lau about Wu Ma's passing.
Rainie Yang, Wu Ma's granddaughter also spoke about his death, "My beloved grandfather Wu Ma, rest in peace."
