11th September 2026 – (Hong Kong) Veteran actor Simon Lui, widely recognised by Hong Kong audiences for his prolific work in horror cinema, has died aged 62. His wife confirmed the news this week, with reports indicating he passed away on 7th September following a relapse after earlier treatment for cancer. The development prompted a wave of tributes from within the industry and from filmgoers who grew up with his signature roles.
Known to many as the “King of Ghosts”, Lui rose to prominence in the 1990s and became a defining presence in the genre through the Troublesome Night franchise, while also contributing as a screenwriter on select projects. His extensive output made him a familiar figure across local screens for decades, cementing a distinct place in Hong Kong popular culture.
In recent years Lui had kept a low profile and was based mainly in Guangzhou, seldom appearing at public entertainment‑industry gatherings in Hong Kong. His decision to step back from frequent media activity heightened public curiosity whenever scattered updates about his life emerged.
Lui married a partner 21 years his junior and the couple have one son. Their relationship, occasionally subject to speculation, remained largely private, with both choosing to maintain distance from the spotlight.