Andy Lau

Andy Lau – Life, Career, and Famous Quotes

Andy Lau (born September 27, 1961) is a Hong Kong actor, singer, producer, and cultural icon. Explore his early life, astonishing film and music career, philanthropic work, and unforgettable quotes.

Introduction

Andy Lau Tak-wah is one of the most enduring and beloved stars in the Chinese-speaking entertainment world. Over more than four decades, he has excelled as an actor, singer, film producer, and philanthropist. Dubbed one of the "Four Heavenly Kings" of Cantopop and celebrated as a leading actor in Hong Kong cinema, Lau has built a legacy of professionalism, humility, resilience, and creative evolution.

This article traces his journey from modest beginnings to superstardom, highlights his achievements, his personal values, and presents some of his most memorable quotes.

Early Life and Family

Andy Lau was born Lau Fook-wing (劉福榮) on September 27, 1961, in Tai Po, British Hong Kong. .

Though his grandparents had some landholdings, his early life had hardship. The family moved to the slums of Diamond Hill so he could receive bilingual schooling.

He studied at Ho Lap College in San Po Kong, Kowloon.

His upbringing instilled in him resilience, discipline, and a low-key humility that would become characteristic of his public persona.

Youth, Training & Entry into Entertainment

In 1980, Andy Lau joined TVB's actor training program, graduating and launching a career in television dramas.

One of his breakout roles was Yang Guo in The Return of the Condor Heroes (TVB), which boosted his popularity. Boat People is among his early film credits.

He also became part of the "Five Tiger Generals of TVB"—a group of rising young TV actors in the 1980s.

His dual interest in both acting and music would emerge soon, as he launched a singing career alongside his film/TV work.

Career and Achievements

Rise to Icon Status

Over the years, Andy Lau balanced both film and music, building a massive fan base across Hong Kong, Mainland China, Taiwan, and elsewhere in Asia. In the 1990s, he was named one of the Four Heavenly Kings of Cantopop.

In film, he has appeared in over 160 films. He has been awarded multiple prestigious acting honors, including:

• Hong Kong Film Award for Best Actor (multiple times)

• Golden Horse Award for Best Leading Actor (twice)

• Entry into the Guinness World Records for “Most Awards Won by a Cantopop Male Artist” by 2000

In 2018, Lau was invited to become a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. vice chairman of the 11th China Film Association.

On the commercial side, Lau was awarded “No.1 Box Office Actor (1985–2005)” in Hong Kong, based on box office totals.

Producing & Business Ventures

To gain more creative control, Andy Lau founded his own production company, Teamwork Motion Pictures, later renamed Focus Group Holdings Limited. A Simple Life, Firestorm, Shock Wave, etc.

He has also authored books: This Is How I Grew Up (1995) and My 30 Work Days (2012) (a diary about filming A Simple Life)

In 2023, he launched his first art exhibition “1/X Andy Lau X Art Exhibition,” showcasing sculptures, film props, calligraphy, and collaborations with other artists.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Andy Lau established the Andy Lau Charity Foundation in 1994 to assist those in need and support education.

He was honored as a Justice of the Peace by the Hong Kong government in 2008.

He has also been lauded as a role model of consistency, work ethic, and integrity in the entertainment industry.

Historical & Industry Context

Andy Lau’s career spans a period of drastic change in Hong Kong and Chinese-language entertainment:

• The 1980s–1990s Hong Kong film & music boom

• The transition from the British colonial era to the handover to China in 1997

• The rise of Mainland China’s film market and the integration of Greater China’s entertainment industries

• The shift from physical media (VCD, DVD) to streaming, and cross-border co-productions

Lau successfully navigated these shifts—he remained relevant across genres, markets, and media formats.

He also exemplifies the model of the multi-hyphenated entertainer: actor + singer + producer + philanthropist.

Legacy and Influence

• Cultural Icon: He is more than a star—he represents consistency, humility, and adaptability in an industry marked by volatility.

• Bridge Between Hong Kong & Mainland: His appeal crosses political, linguistic, and generational boundaries.

• Inspiration for Younger Artists: Many point to his persistence, dedication, and balanced public image as a model to emulate.

• Impact Through Production & Art: By backing meaningful projects and launching his art show, he broadens his influence beyond just stardom.

His legacy is as much about how he conducts himself—humble, hardworking, steady—as about box office numbers or hit albums.

Personality, Values & Traits

From public interviews and profiles, these traits stand out:

• Hard work & endurance: Lau often emphasizes that success comes from sustained effort over time.

• Grounded humility: Despite fame, he maintains a self-effacing attitude, resisting flamboyance.

• Balanced approach: He speaks about balancing commercial demands and artistic integrity.

• Loyalty to fans and consistency: He has said: “Acting and singing are ways to communicate with those who grew up with me. I could not abandon my supporters just because I have earned enough money to quit.”

• Reflective growth: He notes how earlier in career he sought fame and security, but later pursued projects that make him happy, contribute to the industry, or have meaning.

Famous Quotes of Andy Lau

Here are several quotes that reflect his mindset and philosophy:

“I don’t have a problem with money as I spend less than I earn.” “I think time has a great effect on the quality of your work. You can do 100 things and get 80 marks … If you want to get 100 marks, then maybe you won’t even be able to do 10 projects in a year.” “I always say that all problems happen due to miscommunication between people.” “I became producer so that I could work with persons like him and to rock the world of Hong Kong Cinema a bit.” “Before you do anything, you need to know if it’s right or wrong.” “There are many kinds of movies in Hong Kong. Some are commercial and others are more artistic.” “Actually, I look the same in real life as I do in the movies.” “Don’t wait. If it’s not right, move on.”

These lines reflect his moral compass, his practical perspective on career, and his modest self-view.

Lessons from Andy Lau

• Sustained effort matters more than overnight fame

• Adapt, but don’t lose your core values

• Balance commercial success and artistic satisfaction

• Loyalty and humility build long-term respect

• Be intentional with your choices—some projects may bring money, others meaning

Conclusion

Andy Lau is more than an entertainer: he is a phenomenon of endurance, versatility, and quiet integrity. His journey from fetching water in a slum neighborhood to becoming a beloved icon across Asia reflects not just talent, but determination, humility, and strategic evolution.