Here are 2 famous actors from China died in 1981:
Wen Chung Ku (February 8, 1909 Wuxi-June 15, 1981 China) otherwise known as Ku Wen Tsung, Mun Chung Gu, Wenzong Gu, Ku Wen Chung, Wen Tsung Ku, Ku Wen-Tsung or Guh Men Tong was a Chinese film director and actor.
He began his career as an actor in the 1930s Shanghai film industry where he became known for his work in martial arts films. After the Communist takeover of China, Ku turned to directing and became well-known for his films in the wuxia genre, including "Empress Wu Tse-Tien" and "The Flying Swordgirl". Ku's films were known for their use of traditional Chinese culture and mythology, as well as their innovative fight choreography. In addition to his work in film, Ku was also a writer and artist, and was known for his calligraphy and painting. He was recognized with numerous awards throughout his career, including the Golden Banana Award for Best Director at the 1st Asia Pacific Film Festival for his film "The Land of Many Perfumes".
Ku Wen Chung was born into a family of artists and painters. Growing up, he showed a keen interest in traditional Chinese arts and martial arts, which he later incorporated into his films. After the Communist takeover, Ku briefly worked as an editor at the Shanghai Film Studio before moving to Hong Kong to pursue his career in directing. He was one of the few filmmakers who continued to make wuxia films in Hong Kong in the 1960s, when the genre was declining in popularity. Ku's dedication to wuxia films eventually earned him the title "the King of Wuxia". He was also known for discovering and launching the careers of several actors, including Ti Lung and David Chiang. Today, Ku Wen Chung is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of Chinese cinema.
Yunzhong Li (September 2, 1911 Tianjin-April 29, 1981 Hong Kong) a.k.a. Lee Wan-Chung, Li Yun-chung or Yun-Chung Li was a Chinese actor.
He started his acting career in 1930 and became a popular film star in the 1940s. Li starred in more than 150 films during his career, including "The White Haired Devil Lady" (1959) and "Dragon Gate Inn" (1967). He was also known for his work in theater and television. Li won several awards for his performances including the Best Actor award at the Asia-Pacific Film Festival in 1963. In addition to his acting career, he was a prominent member of the Chinese Artists Association and was involved in promoting and preserving Chinese culture. Li passed away in Hong Kong in 1981 at the age of 69.
Li Yunzhong was born on September 2, 1911, in Tianjin, China. He began his career at the age of 19 working in a Shanghai film studio. He gained popularity and critical acclaim for his performances in the early 1940s. He worked with some of the most renowned directors of the era, including Wu Yonggang and Sang Hu. Li was known for his ability to portray characters with depth and sensitivity. He was also skilled in martial arts and frequently performed his own stunts in films.
In addition to his film career, Li was actively involved in the Chinese People's Liberation Army during the Second Sino-Japanese War. He was also a member of the Communist Party of China and was later appointed as a member of the National People's Congress in 1954.
Li Yunzhong's contribution to the entertainment industry was immense, and he was awarded the title of "Outstanding Artist" by the Chinese government in 1959. He also served as the Vice Chairman of the Chinese Artists Association and helped establish the Li Yunzhong Art Award, which is given to outstanding artists in China.
Li Yunzhong passed away on April 29, 1981, at the age of 69 in Hong Kong. His legacy as an actor and his dedication to promoting Chinese culture will always be remembered.