Chinese actors who were born in 1919
Here are 9 famous actors from China were born in 1919:
Wei Li
Wei Li (October 25, 1919 Shijiazhuang-August 21, 2005 Shanghai) otherwise known as Li Wei was a Chinese actor.
Wei Li started his acting career in the 1930s and eventually became one of the most famous actors during China's golden era of cinema in the 1940s and 1950s. He starred in over 100 films and was known for his versatility in playing both heroic and villainous roles. Wei Li received many awards for his contributions to Chinese cinema, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 25th Hong Kong Film Awards in 2006, a year after his death. Wei Li's legacy in Chinese cinema continues to be celebrated and remembered to this day.
Wei Li was born in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province in China in 1919. He began his acting career in 1936 and quickly rose to fame for his exceptional acting skills. Wei Li's breakout role was in the 1941 film "Mulberry" directed by Hu Die. His successful career spanned three decades and he was regarded as one of the most talented actors of his time. Wei played roles in various genres, from romance to war films. In the early 1950s, he became attached to the socialist realist movement in Chinese cinema and was known for promoting positive social messages through his performances. Wei Li's talent was not limited to acting, he also wrote and directed films. He wrote the screenplay for the 1957 film "Dragon Gate Inn" which was later remade by Tsui Hark in 1992. Wei Li was regarded as a mentor to many young actors and filmmakers in China. After suffering a stroke, he retired from acting in 1993. Wei Li's contributions to Chinese cinema remain significant and his impact on Chinese film culture is immeasurable.
Wei Li's acting career was interrupted by the Sino-Japanese War in 1937. He took refuge in Hong Kong and continued his acting career there, but eventually moved back to mainland China after the war ended in 1945. Wei Li starred in some of China's most iconic films, including "The Spring River Flows East" (1947), "Woman Basketball Player No. 5" (1957), and "The Red Detachment of Women" (1961). He also starred in several international co-productions, including the 1973 James Bond film "The Man with the Golden Gun" where he played a supporting role as the character "Hai Fat." In addition to his work in film, Wei Li also acted in television dramas and stage productions. He was known for his generosity and kindness towards his colleagues in the film industry, and was a beloved figure among his fans.
Ching Ho Wang
Ching Ho Wang (September 23, 1919 Fujian-) also known as Jing-he Wang, Wong Ching Ho, Wang Ching-Ho, Wang Qing-He or Wang Qinghe is a Chinese actor.
Wang Ching Ho began his acting career in the 1940s and quickly became a popular actor in Hong Kong, appearing in over 150 films during his career. He was known for his versatility, appearing in a wide range of genres including drama, comedy, and action films. He also worked as a director and screenwriter. In addition to his work in film, Wang Ching Ho was a prominent figure in the Chinese opera world and was known for his performances of traditional Chinese opera. He passed away on May 22, 1983.
Wang Ching Ho was born in Fujian, China, and grew up in Hong Kong. He was the son of a famous Chinese opera performer, and he began training in Chinese opera at a young age. He later became a member of the China Drama Academy in Hong Kong, where he trained in a variety of acting styles. In addition to his work in film and opera, Wang Ching Ho was also a talented martial artist and was known for his prowess in kung fu. He often performed his own stunts in his films, and his martial arts skills helped to make him a popular leading man in action movies. Wang Ching Ho was recognized as one of the most influential actors in Hong Kong cinema, and his contributions to both film and Chinese opera have had a lasting impact on the industry.
Wang Ching Ho's career in film spanned several decades, and he appeared in some of the most iconic Hong Kong films of the 20th century. Some of his most well-known works include "The Lovers" (1958), "Come Drink with Me" (1966), "King Boxer" (1972), and "The Legend of the 7 Golden Vampires" (1974). His career in film began to wane in the late 1970s due to health issues, but he continued to appear in smaller roles until his passing in 1983.
Wang Ching Ho's contributions to Chinese opera were no less significant. He was a skilled performer of several different types of Chinese opera, including Cantonese and Pekingese styles. He was regarded as a master of his craft and was known for his ability to convey complex emotions through his performances. He also trained many younger performers in the art of Chinese opera.
Beyond his work in film and opera, Wang Ching Ho was a respected figure in the Hong Kong arts community. He was known for his dedication to preserving traditional Chinese culture and promoting the arts. He was also a devoted family man and was survived by his wife and four children.
Today, Wang Ching Ho is remembered as one of the most talented and influential figures in the history of Hong Kong cinema. His legacy lives on through his many memorable performances and his contributions to the Chinese opera world.
Chih-Ching Yang
Chih-Ching Yang (February 11, 1919 Hebei-April 30, 1984 Hong Kong) otherwise known as Yeung Chi-Hing, Yang Chih Ching, Zhiqing Yang, Chi Hing Yeung, Yang Chih-Ching, Yang Chih-Chin, Yang Tse-Ching, Yan Chih-Ching, Yang Zhiqing, Yang Zhi-Qing, Yan Cher-Chin, Yang Che-Ching, Yang Chi-ching, Yeung Chi Hing, Yan Chih Ching, Yang Chi Ching, Yang Tse Ching or Yang Zhi Qing was a Chinese actor.
He began his acting career in the 1930s in Shanghai and became one of the most popular actors of his time. He appeared in over 400 films and was known for his versatility, with roles ranging from heroic to comedic. He also worked as a director and producer, and was one of the founding members of Shaw Brothers Studio. Yang was renowned for his mentorship of young actors in Hong Kong's film industry and was greatly respected by his peers. He passed away at the age of 65 in 1984 in Hong Kong.
Throughout his long and successful career, Chih-Ching Yang starred in a wide range of films, including dramas, comedies, and martial arts movies. His notable roles include the villainous General Tsao in the classic kung fu film "Fist of Fury" (1972) alongside Bruce Lee, as well as the role of Inspector Tao Man in the thriller "The Black Enforcer" (1967). In addition to his work as an actor, Yang was also skilled in scriptwriting and worked behind the scenes on several films. He was highly regarded for his ability to balance complex emotions onscreen, often bringing a depth of sensitivity to his performances that was not common in earlier Chinese cinema. Many actors in the Hong Kong film industry credit Yang with helping to launch their careers, and he is remembered as a beloved figure in Chinese cinema.
Yang's contributions to the film industry earned him numerous awards and accolades both during his lifetime and posthumously. In 1963, he won the Golden Horse Award for Best Leading Actor for his performance in the film "The Grand Substitution." He was also awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hong Kong Film Awards in 1983. Yang's legacy continues to influence the film industry in Hong Kong and beyond. In 1991, he was inducted posthumously into the Hong Kong Film Awards Hall of Fame, and in 1999 he was named one of the "Top Ten Chinese Actors of the Century." Today, Yang is remembered as a pioneer of Chinese cinema who helped to shape the industry into what it is today.
George Fenneman
George Fenneman (November 10, 1919 Beijing-May 29, 1997 Los Angeles) also known as George Watt Fenneman or George was a Chinese announcer, presenter and actor.
He was born to American parents in Beijing, China, and raised in San Francisco. Fenneman started his career as a radio announcer and made his debut on the show "The Alan Young Show" in 1944. He later became the announcer for "The Jack Benny Program" in 1946, a role he would keep until the program's end in 1955.
Fenneman also hosted the game show "You Bet Your Life" with Groucho Marx from 1950 to 1961. In addition to his work on radio and television, Fenneman appeared in several films including "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" and "The Best Man."
He was known for his distinctive voice and delivery, which made him a popular choice as an announcer and host. Fenneman continued working in show business until his death in 1997 at the age of 77.
In addition to his work in show business, George Fenneman was also a private pilot and had a passion for flying. He earned his pilot’s license in the 1950s and often flew himself to different locations for his work on radio and television. Fenneman also served in the United States Army during World War II, as part of the Armed Forces Radio Service where he hosted a daily news and entertainment program for the troops stationed in the Pacific. Even after retiring from his hosting duties in 1961, Fenneman continued to make occasional TV appearances, and served as an adjunct professor at California State University, Northridge where he taught radio and television production. He was married to Peggy Clifford for over 50 years and had two children.
During his time hosting "You Bet Your Life," George Fenneman became famous for his humorous interactions with Groucho Marx, who would often tease and joke with Fenneman on the show. The two have been described as having great on-screen chemistry, which helped make the show a success. Fenneman's work on "You Bet Your Life" earned him an Emmy award in 1954.In addition to his TV work, Fenneman was also a prolific voice-over artist, lending his distinctive voice to numerous commercials and animated TV shows including "The Flintstones" and "Garfield and Friends."Fenneman was known for his charitable work and was involved with several organizations throughout his career, including the American Heart Association and the Boy Scouts of America. He was also a member of several professional organizations including the Screen Actors Guild and the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.George Fenneman's contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized through several awards and honors, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Ying Cheung
Ying Cheung (January 25, 1919 Hong Kong-December 14, 1984 Canada) a.k.a. Chang Ying or Ying Zhang was a Chinese actor.
Ying Cheung was born in Hong Kong, and he started his acting career in the 1940s in the Hong Kong film industry. He quickly gained fame for his versatility and range as an actor, and he appeared in a variety of films across different genres.
In the 1950s, Ying Cheung moved to Taiwan, where he continued to work in the film industry. He became known for his roles in historical dramas and martial arts films, and he worked with some of the biggest directors and actors of the time.
In the 1960s, Ying Cheung moved to Canada, where he continued to act in films and television shows. He became one of the first Chinese actors to find success in North America, and he appeared in a number of popular TV series and movies.
Ying Cheung was known for his dedication to his craft, and he worked tirelessly throughout his career. He was a respected member of the film community, and he was often called upon to mentor younger actors and share his knowledge and experience.
Ying Cheung passed away in 1984 in Canada, leaving behind a rich legacy in the film industry. He is remembered as one of the most talented and versatile actors of his generation, and his contributions to Chinese and North American cinema will always be valued.
One of Ying Cheung's most memorable roles was in the 1957 film "Daughter of the Dragon," where he played opposite Hollywood legend Anna May Wong. He also starred in the 1962 film "My Son, the Hero," which was one of the first martial arts films to be shot outside of Asia.
Another notable achievement in Ying Cheung's career was his work as a voice actor. He lent his voice to several popular Chinese animated films, including "Havoc in Heaven" and "Princess Iron Fan."
Aside from acting, Ying Cheung was also an accomplished painter and calligrapher. He often created artwork for his colleagues in the film industry and was known for his exquisite brushwork and attention to detail.
In Canada, Ying Cheung continued to promote Chinese culture and was actively involved in local Chinese organizations. He was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977 for his contributions to the community.
Despite facing discrimination and challenges as a Chinese actor in North America, Ying Cheung remained committed to his craft and paved the way for future generations of Asian actors.
Throughout his career, Ying Cheung appeared in over 80 films and TV shows. In addition to his work in "Daughter of the Dragon" and "My Son, the Hero," some of his other notable film credits include "The Black Rose," "The Love Eterne," and "A Queen's Ransom." In North America, he appeared in TV shows like "Mission: Impossible" and "Kung Fu."
Ying Cheung was admired for his acting skills and his ability to portray a wide range of characters. He was equally comfortable playing heroic leads as he was playing complex villains. His talent and hard work earned him numerous accolades throughout his career, including the Golden Horse Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1977 for his role in the film "The Dream of the Red Chamber."
In addition to his work in film and TV, Ying Cheung was also a stage actor, and he frequently performed in Chinese-language productions in both Asia and Canada. He was a founding member of the Hong Kong Repertory Theatre and helped bring Chinese theater to a wider audience.
Ying Cheung's contributions to the film industry were recognized posthumously with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2009 Asian Film Awards. He remains an inspiration to many actors and filmmakers today and his legacy continues to live on.
Bik-kin Ho
Bik-kin Ho (October 5, 1919 China-January 12, 2003 Hong Kong) was a Chinese actor.
Born in the city of Jinhua in the Zhejiang province of China, Bik-kin Ho began his acting career at the age of 18 in Shanghai, where he acted in local films and stage productions. In 1948, he moved to Hong Kong and joined the Shaw Brothers Studio, where he appeared in over 100 films. He became one of the most prominent actors in Hong Kong cinema during the 1950s and 1960s, often playing lead or supporting roles in action and martial arts films. Ho was known for his tough-guy persona and his ability to perform his own stunts. He starred in many classic Hong Kong films, such as "The Thunderbolt Fist," "The One-Armed Swordsman," and "The Shadow Whip." In addition to acting, Ho was also a skilled screenwriter and director, and he directed a number of successful films in the 1970s. Bik-kin Ho passed away in Hong Kong on January 12, 2003, at the age of 83.
Throughout his career, Bik-kin Ho won many awards and accolades for his contributions to the film industry. He won the Best Actor award at the Asian Film Festival in 1963 for his performance in "The Grand Substitution," and in 1967 he won the Best Director award at the Hong Kong Film Awards for "The Magnificent Swordsman." In addition to his work in film, Ho was also a well-known philanthropist and donated generously to various charities and causes throughout his life. His legacy lives on as he is remembered as one of the greatest actors in Hong Kong cinema history.
Bik-kin Ho's impact on Hong Kong cinema extended beyond his performances on screen. He was a pioneer in the Hong Kong film industry, helping to shape it into what it is today. As one of the founding members of the Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild, Ho was instrumental in establishing industry standards and promoting professional development for film directors in Hong Kong. He also served as a mentor for many up-and-coming actors and filmmakers, inspiring a new generation of talent. In recognition of his contributions to Hong Kong cinema, Ho was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hong Kong Film Awards in 1998. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout his life, including surviving the Japanese invasion of China and losing his home during the Cultural Revolution, Bik-kin Ho remained committed to his craft and continued to work in the film industry until his passing. His dedication to excellence and professionalism has ensured that he is remembered not only as a great actor, but also as a true icon of Hong Kong cinema.
Pao Han Lin
Pao Han Lin (October 12, 1919 Hong Kong-July 12, 2007 London) otherwise known as Hon-Lam Bau, Bau Hon-Lam, Bau Hon Lam, Han-Lin Pao or Hon-Lam Pau was a Chinese actor.
He began his acting career in Cantonese opera before transitioning to film. Pao appeared in over 140 films, primarily in Hong Kong and Taiwan, and was known for his roles in martial arts films such as "Secret Service of the Imperial Court" and "Soul of the Sword". He was also a prolific voice actor, lending his voice to various animated films and TV shows. In addition to his acting career, Pao was a trained acupuncturist and occasionally treated fellow actors on set. He passed away at the age of 87 in London, where he had been residing with his daughter.
Pao Han Lin was born in Hong Kong in 1919, and at a young age trained in Cantonese opera, honing his skills in singing, acting, and movement. In the 1940s, Pao transitioned into film and quickly made a name for himself as an actor. His breakthrough role was in the 1950 film "Love in Chaos", and he would go on to work with many of the most prominent directors and actors in Hong Kong and Taiwan cinema. Pao was known for his ability to portray both heroic and villainous characters, and his performances in martial arts films were especially memorable.
In addition to his work in film, Pao lent his voice to numerous animated productions. He was especially well-known for his work as the voice of Monkey in the 1965 animated film "Havoc in Heaven". Pao also maintained a second career as an acupuncturist, and was respected for his knowledge of traditional Chinese medicine.
Throughout his life, Pao was deeply committed to his art and to the tradition of Cantonese opera. He was also known for his generosity, often using his acting fees to help support his friends and colleagues in the industry. Pao was widely admired and respected by both his peers and his fans, and his contributions to Chinese cinema continue to be celebrated today.
Pao Han Lin's legacy extends well beyond his acting career. He was also a published author, having written several books on Chinese opera and traditional medicine. These included "Stories of Cantonese Opera" and "Principles and Methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine". Pao was also a dedicated teacher, often mentoring young actors and sharing his knowledge of Chinese culture and art forms.
Pao's contributions to the film industry were recognized with numerous awards throughout his career. He was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 9th Hong Kong Film Awards in 1990, and was posthumously awarded the Silver Bauhinia Star by the Hong Kong government in 2007.
Despite his success in the film industry, Pao remained humble and grounded throughout his life. He valued his family and was a devoted husband and father. After retiring from acting, he spent his final years living with his daughter in London.
Pao Han Lin's impact on Chinese cinema and culture cannot be overstated. He was a true master of his craft and a beloved figure in the industry. His work continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world.
Wu Chia Hsiang
Wu Chia Hsiang (August 3, 1919 Anhui-March 20, 1993 Hong Kong) a.k.a. Wu Kar Sung, Cha Son Wu, Chia-Hsiang Wu or Jia-xiang Wu was a Chinese actor and film director.
Wu Chia Hsiang was popularly known for his performance in several Wong Kar-wai films, including Chungking Express and Fallen Angels. He began his career in the film industry in the 1940s as a scriptwriter and later transitioned into acting and eventually directing. He directed over 70 films, including the award-winning film, The Legend of Wisely. Wu was a highly respected figure in the Hong Kong film industry and was known for his dedication to his craft. He received several accolades for his contributions to film, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hong Kong Film Awards in 1992. Despite passing away in 1993, Wu's legacy in the film industry continues to inspire many generations of filmmakers.
In addition to his work as an actor and director, Wu Chia Hsiang was also a playwright and screenwriter, having written over 50 screenplays throughout his career. He was highly respected for his ability to craft compelling narratives and create dynamic characters. Wu's films often explored themes of love, loss, and identity, and he was known for his use of non-linear storytelling and bold visual style. His collaborations with director Wong Kar-wai helped to propel Hong Kong cinema onto the global stage and influence a new generation of filmmakers. Wu's contributions to Chinese cinema were recognized posthumously with the establishment of the Wu Chia Hsiang Memorial Archive in Hong Kong, which houses a collection of his films, scripts, and other materials related to his work.
Wu Chia Hsiang's early life was marked with tragedy as he lost his father and two of his brothers in a bombing during the Sino-Japanese War. Despite this, he pursued his passion for writing and storytelling, eventually making a name for himself in the film industry. Throughout his career, he worked with some of the most prominent actors and directors in Hong Kong cinema, including Jackie Chan, Leslie Cheung, and John Woo. Wu's films also explored social and political issues, including corruption, revolution, and the struggle of marginalized groups.
Aside from his contribution to the film industry, Wu was also known for his philanthropy work. He was a dedicated supporter of various charity organizations, including the Hong Kong Red Cross, and was actively involved in fundraising activities.
Even after his passing, Wu Chia Hsiang's influence on the film industry remained strong. Many of his films have become classics of Hong Kong cinema and continue to inspire filmmakers around the world. His work is a testament to his creative vision and dedication to his craft, and he will always be remembered as one of the greats of Chinese cinema.
Shi Yuan
Shi Yuan (May 31, 1919 Tianjin-February 23, 1999) was a Chinese actor. His child is called Min Zhang.
Shi Yuan was a leading actor in the Chinese film industry, known for his exceptional performances in many classical films of his era. He started his acting career in the 1940s and became a prominent actor in the 1950s. Shi Yuan was particularly acclaimed for his interpretation of historical figures such as Cao Cao and Confucius, and he won several awards for his outstanding characters. In addition to acting, Shi Yuan was also a talented singer and performed many popular songs. After his death in 1999, the Chinese film industry lost one of its most talented actors, and Shi Yuan's legacy continues to inspire young actors in China today.
Shi Yuan's career in acting spanned over five decades, during which he acted in more than 70 films, many of which are considered classics of Chinese cinema. He was known for his versatility and ability to play a wide range of characters, from tragic heroes to comic relief. Apart from his achievements in film, Shi Yuan was also a founding member of the Chinese Artists Association and the Chinese Film Association. He was actively involved in promoting and developing Chinese arts and culture throughout his life, and was honored by the Chinese government for his contributions to the film industry. In 1991, he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Hong Kong Film Awards in recognition of his outstanding career in cinema. Today, Shi Yuan is remembered as one of the most talented and influential actors in Chinese cinema history.
In addition to his work in film and promoting arts and culture, Shi Yuan also contributed to the education sector. In the 1950s, he served as a lecturer at the Central Academy of Drama, one of the top drama schools in China. He also acted as the president of the Beijing Film Academy from 1984-1987, where he was known to be a strict but caring leader who emphasized the importance of discipline and hard work in the creative process. Shi Yuan's influence on the film industry and education system in China continues to be felt today, and he remains an important figure in the country's cultural history.