Chow Yun Fat Biography, Net Worth, Height, Relationship and More

Chow Yun Fat, born on May 18, 1955, in Lamma Island, British Hong Kong, is a Hong Kong actor known for his collaborations with filmmaker John Woo and his roles in Western films such as Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End. With a career that spans over several decades, Chow has established himself as a prominent figure in the film industry.

Starting his acting journey in 1976, Chow has appeared in over 95 films and 25 television series, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He has received several awards, including three Hong Kong Film Awards for Best Actor and two Golden Horse Awards for Best Actor in Taiwan. Chow’s performances in films like “A Better Tomorrow” and “The Killer” have earned him critical acclaim.

Apart from his successful acting career, Chow Yun Fat is known for his modest lifestyle and philanthropic efforts. Despite his estimated net worth of around $200 million, he often keeps a low profile, being seen at food stalls and using public transportation. He has expressed his intention to donate 99% of his wealth to charitable causes and plans to establish a foundation to help those in need.

In his personal life, Chow Yun Fat is married to Jasmine Tan. They have been together since 1986 and have a goddaughter named Celine Ng. Despite facing adversity, including the loss of a stillborn daughter in 1991, Chow and Jasmine have remained resilient in their relationship.

With his remarkable career, philanthropic endeavors, and humble lifestyle, Chow Yun Fat continues to be an influential figure in the film industry, leaving a lasting impact on both the Hong Kong film industry and the international film community.

Early Life and Education

Chow Yun Fat was born on May 18, 1955, in Lamma Island, Hong Kong, to parents Chow Yung-Wan and Chan Lai-fong. He grew up in a farming community on Lamma Island and moved to Kowloon when he was ten years old.

Despite facing financial hardships, Chow was determined to support his family and took on various odd jobs after leaving school at the age of 17.

However, his life took a turn when he responded to a newspaper advertisement and was accepted as an actor trainee at TVB, a local television station. This opportunity marked the beginning of his journey in the entertainment industry.

Career

Chow Yun Fat embarked on his film career in 1976 with Goldig Films, marking the beginning of a successful journey in the industry. He gained immense popularity for his role in the television series “The Bund” in 1980, showcasing his exceptional acting skills.

However, it was his collaboration with renowned director John Woo in the action film “A Better Tomorrow” in 1986 that propelled Chow to megastardom. The film not only became a box office success but also established him as a prominent actor in the industry. This partnership with John Woo led to the creation of several iconic films, including “The Killer” and “Hard Boiled,” which further solidified Chow’s reputation as a versatile and talented actor.

Chow Yun Fat’s outstanding performances have been recognized and awarded multiple times throughout his career. He has won three Hong Kong Film Awards for Best Actor, honoring his exceptional talent and contributions to the industry. Additionally, he has received two Golden Horse Awards for Best Actor in Taiwan, further showcasing the extent of his acclaim.

Personal Life

Chow Yun Fat is a Hong Kong actor known for his illustrious career in the film industry. In his personal life, Chow has been married twice. His first marriage was to Candice Yu in 1983, but unfortunately, the union lasted only nine months. In 1986, Chow married Jasmine Tan, and they have been together ever since. However, tragedy struck the couple when they experienced the heartbreaking loss of their stillborn daughter in 1991.

Despite his fame and fortune, Chow Yun Fat leads a remarkably humble lifestyle. He is often spotted frequenting food stalls and using public transportation. This down-to-earth approach sets him apart from many celebrities and showcases his grounded nature. It is this modest lifestyle that endears him to fans worldwide.

Chow is not only committed to living simply but also to making a meaningful impact in the world through charitable endeavors. The actor has expressed his intention to donate an impressive 99% of his wealth to various charitable causes. With a heart dedicated to helping others, Chow plans to establish a foundation that will extend support to those in need, reflecting his genuine commitment to making a difference.

Net Worth

Chow Yun Fat is known for his impressive net worth, which is estimated to be around $200 million. He has accumulated this substantial fortune through his successful acting career, appearing in numerous films and television series.

In 2014, Chow was recognized as the second-highest-earning actor in Hong Kong, with earnings of HK$170 million (US$21.9 million). While his exact salary and income remain undisclosed, it is clear that he has amassed considerable wealth throughout his career.

Despite his financial success, Chow Yun Fat has expressed his intention to prioritize philanthropy. He aims to donate the majority of his wealth to charitable causes, a testament to his altruistic nature and desire to make a positive impact on society.

Chow’s net worth not only reflects his financial success but also serves as a reminder of his dedication to giving back and making a difference in the world.

Height

Chow Yun Fat stands at a height of 5 feet 5 inches (1.65m). He has maintained a well-shaped physique throughout his career and regularly engages in physical exercise to stay fit.

Relationship Insights

Chow Yun Fat is currently married to Jasmine Tan. They have been together since 1986. His first marriage to Candice Yu ended in divorce after only nine months. Chow and Jasmine have faced the tragedy of losing a stillborn daughter in 1991. They have a goddaughter named Celine Ng.

Awards and Achievements

Chow Yun Fat has achieved remarkable success in his career and has been recognized with various prestigious awards and honors. His exceptional talent and captivating performances have earned him accolades both in Hong Kong and internationally.

Some of the notable awards and achievements Chow Yun Fat has received include:

Three Hong Kong Film Awards for Best Actor.
Two Golden Horse Awards for Best Actor in Taiwan.

In addition to these awards, Chow Yun Fat was also honored by the Los Angeles Times, earning the title of “the world’s coolest actor” in 1995. This recognition further solidified his reputation as a highly regarded and influential actor in the industry.

Praised Performances

Chow Yun Fat’s remarkable performances in various films have received critical acclaim and praise from audiences and critics alike. Some of his notable works include:

“An Autumn’s Tale,” where his portrayal of a struggling immigrant received widespread appreciation.
“All About Ah-Long,” a touching drama that showcased his versatility as an actor.

Chow Yun Fat’s ability to bring depth and authenticity to his roles has made him a respected figure in the film industry. His dedication to his craft has resulted in a body of work that continues to be celebrated and admired by fans around the world.

Filmography

Chow Yun Fat has appeared in over 95 films and 25 television series throughout his career. His diverse filmography showcases his versatility as an actor, with roles in action films, comedies, and dramas. Some notable movies and television series he has been a part of include:

Action Films:

“A Better Tomorrow”
“The Killer”
“Hard Boiled”
“Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon”

Dramas:

“An Autumn’s Tale”
“All About Ah-Long”
“The Bund”

Comedies:

“God of Gamblers”
“From Vegas to Macau”
“The Eight Immortals Restaurant: The Untold Story”

These are just a few examples from Chow Yun Fat’s extensive filmography, highlighting his impressive body of work in both movies and television series.

Charity Work

Chow Yun Fat is deeply committed to philanthropy and has dedicated himself to giving back to society. He has expressed his noble intention to donate 99% of his wealth to charitable causes, showcasing his genuine compassion for those in need. In line with his philanthropic vision, Chow plans to establish a foundation that will serve as a lasting legacy, providing support and assistance to individuals and communities who require aid.

Chow Yun Fat’s charitable endeavors exemplify his desire to make a positive impact in the world. Through his foundation, he aims to address various societal challenges and contribute to the betterment of humanity. Whether it is supporting education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, or other noble causes, Chow’s foundation will play a crucial role in improving the lives of countless individuals.

Chow Yun Fat’s dedication to charity work goes beyond mere financial contributions. He actively engages in philanthropic activities, participating in fundraising events and promoting awareness for various causes. His advocacy and involvement serve as an inspiration to others, encouraging a spirit of generosity and social responsibility.

By establishing a foundation and actively engaging in charity work, Chow Yun Fat continues to make a profound difference in the lives of those less fortunate. His humanitarian efforts are a testament to his genuine empathy and his unwavering commitment to creating a better world for all.

Controversy and Rumors

Chow Yun Fat found himself in the midst of controversy when reports emerged that he was banned from working on film productions in mainland China. The reason behind this alleged ban was his vocal support for the pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong in 2014. This political stance led to consequences for Chow’s career in the mainland Chinese film industry.

However, despite this controversy, Chow Yun Fat has managed to maintain a clean public image and steer clear of any significant rumors throughout his illustrious career. This speaks to his professionalism and focus on his craft, rather than getting caught up in unnecessary distractions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Chow Yun Fat’s prolific career as an actor has made a lasting impact on the Hong Kong film industry and the world. His versatility and talent have earned him numerous awards and accolades, solidifying his status as a respected actor. Collaborating with esteemed directors like John Woo, Chow has delivered exceptional performances that have captivated audiences.

Chow’s reputation extends beyond his acting prowess. His modest lifestyle and humble demeanor have endeared him to fans worldwide. Despite his immense wealth, he chooses to live a simple life, often seen mingling with locals and using public transportation. Moreover, Chow’s philanthropic efforts, including his plan to donate the majority of his wealth to charity, showcase his compassion and commitment to making a difference in society.

With a net worth of approximately $200 million, Chow Yun Fat’s success is a testament to his dedication to his craft. He has proven time and again his ability to bring characters to life on the screen, captivating audiences with his performances. As he continues to contribute to the world of cinema, Chow’s legacy will endure, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry and inspiring future generations of actors.