Cherie Chung Chor-hung, often hailed as the “Marilyn Monroe of Hong Kong,” captivated the entertainment industry in the 1980s with her enchanting talent and radiant beauty. Renowned for her versatile acting, Chung’s career peak coincided with her receiving three Hong Kong Film Awards nominations for her roles in “The Story of Woo Viet,” “Hong Kong, Hong Kong,” and “An Autumn’s Tale.” However, at the age of 31, at the height of her fame, she chose to step away from the limelight.
Born in 1960 in Hong Kong, Chung’s foray into the entertainment world began with the 1979 Miss Hong Kong pageant. Although she placed fourth, this exposure led to her film debut in Johnnie To Kei-fung’s “The Enigmatic Case.” Her career swiftly took off with remarkable performances in a variety of genres, from action and romance to comedy.
In “The Story of Woo Viet,” directed by Ann Hui, Chung starred alongside Chow Yun-fat, depicting the struggles of Vietnamese refugees. Her role in “Hong Kong, Hong Kong,” a poignant drama by Clifford Choi, showcased her as an immigrant navigating life’s complexities in Hong Kong. Throughout the 1980s, Chung’s filmography expanded to nearly 50 titles, including “Spiritual Love” and “An Autumn’s Tale,” the latter earning her critical acclaim and award nominations for her portrayal of Jennifer Lee, a woman caught in a complicated romantic triangle.
Despite her soaring career, Chung decided to leave acting in 1991, following her last film, “Zodiac Killers.” She expressed a need for space and a break from the pressures of the industry. Post-acting, she ventured into the world of business with her husband, Michael Chu Ka-ting, opening furniture stores Nu Concepts and Nest, both now closed. Tragically, her husband passed away in 2007.
Chung’s passion for photography led to her charity exhibition “To Hong Kong with Love” in 2014, where she displayed her love for Hong Kong’s natural beauty and raised awareness about environmental conservation. As a dedicated environmental activist, Chung has been involved in various campaigns, emphasizing the importance of preserving nature and local culture.
Though she stepped back from acting, Chung’s legacy in Hong Kong cinema endures. Her rare public appearances, often at high-profile fashion and beauty events, continue to captivate her fans. Reflecting on her career, Chung appreciates the creative aspects of filmmaking but relishes the enriched life she has led away from the industry. Her journey from a celebrated actress to a passionate environmentalist and photographer demonstrates her multifaceted talents and enduring charm.
READ MORE: