Hsu Feng, an actress with roots in Baoying, Jiangsu, was born in 1950 in Taipei. At just 16, she was accepted into United Film Company, making her screen debut in Dragon Inn, directed by the acclaimed King Hu. Co-star Shangguan Lingfeng won a Golden Horse Award for Best Actress for her role, while Hsu’s captivating performance immediately put her in the spotlight, sparking a remarkable career.
Known for portraying courageous heroines in historical martial arts films, she captivated audiences with her strength and grace. Over her 15-year acting career, Hsu Feng starred in numerous films that portrayed the virtues of loyalty and honor, values that profoundly influenced her life offscreen as well. Her performance in A Touch of Zen further solidified her reputation, earning her the title of “Most Promising Actress” at the 9th Golden Horse Awards.
Fulfilling a mother’s wish and paying an ex-husband’s debts
While Hsu Feng’s professional life flourished, her personal life faced turmoil. She married a friend she did not deeply love to honor her late mother’s wish, hoping to fulfill her family’s expectations. This new husband, however, borrowed a significant amount in Hsu Feng’s name for a business venture. When the business failed, he left her with considerable debt and disappeared.
Unwilling to shirk her responsibilities, Hsu Feng took on the burden of repaying the debt, determined to preserve her family’s honor. She even enlisted her half-sister, Hsu Jie, who joined her in acting to help manage the financial load. Despite her successful career, this period was marked by constant pressure and financial strain.
Among the creditors was Hong Kong businessman Tong Jun-nian, who persistently sought repayment. In a bold move, Hsu Feng approached him personally and spoke with conviction: “I’m working hard every day to repay this debt. If you push me too hard, neither of us benefits. I promise to repay everything, but I need time. Please believe in my word.” Her courage, dignity, and unwavering sense of responsibility impressed Tong. He saw in Hsu Feng a rare strength of character, and her beauty and determination left a lasting impression on him.
An unexpected path to marriage and success
In an unexpected turn, Tong’s respect for Hsu Feng soon turned into admiration, and he began courting her. Their relationship blossomed, and before long, they decided to marry, resolving her financial worries in the process. The wedding, held in May 1980, was a lavish affair adorned with 30,000 roses, setting a new standard for elegance and luxury in Hong Kong. It was a fitting celebration of a love born from mutual respect and admiration.
A new chapter in film production
With Tong’s unwavering support, Hsu Feng established her own film company, venturing into film production. In 1993, she produced Farewell My Concubine, a film that became a monumental achievement. It won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival, marking the first time a Chinese film had received this prestigious award. The film also won a Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film, further recognizing Hsu Feng’s talents and dedication.
Her achievements continued, and in 1998, the Cannes Film Festival honored Hsu Feng with the “Most Outstanding Producer Award.” Another of her productions, Red Dust, won a Golden Horse Award for actress Lin Qingxia, cementing Hsu Feng’s legacy as a trailblazer in the film industry.
Enduring love and shared values
Hsu and Tong shared a deep bond that grew stronger over time. In one heartfelt moment, Hsu asked her husband: “What matters most to you in this life?” Tong’s simple yet profound reply: “You do,” touched her deeply. In her younger years, Hsu Feng’s greatest happiness came from knowing her mother was well-cared for. As she grew older, she found joy in the deep and lasting love she shared with Tong. This bond became her source of strength and comfort, and she wished to remain by his side, sharing a life built on mutual respect, loyalty, and understanding.
Translated article
Follow us on X, Facebook, or Pinterest
