Actress Gigi Lai played Zhao Min in TVB’s 2000 adaptation of The Heavenly Sword and Dragon Sabre. The role brought her widespread recognition across Asia and helped establish her as one of Hong Kong’s most beloved television stars.
A Leading Beauty of TVB’s Golden Era
Born in 1971, Gigi Lai experienced a difficult childhood. To help ease her mother’s financial burden, she began working at an early age. At just 14, she landed a supporting role in the film Happy Ghost II. She later signed with TVB and quickly became one of the network’s most favored actresses.
During the 1990s, Gigi Lai was considered one of the most beautiful actresses in Hong Kong entertainment. Beyond her success in The Heavenly Sword and Dragon Sabre, she left a lasting impression through numerous productions, including War and Beauty, Master Swordsman Lu Xiaofeng 2, Healing Hands III, and The Gem of Life.
In addition to her acting talent, Gigi Lai’s beauty was often compared to that of other celebrated actresses of her generation. Her bright smile and elegant features earned admiration from both audiences and fellow celebrities. Actress Charmaine Sheh once reportedly described Gigi Lai’s beauty as being “like a rose, both fragrant and beautiful.”
Retiring From Showbiz and Marrying a Billionaire
Although her career flourished, Gigi Lai’s romantic life was not always smooth. She was previously involved in a widely discussed relationship with Hong Kong comic book mogul Wong Yuk Long, who was 21 years her senior. Their significant age difference attracted considerable public attention and criticism.
She was subsequently linked to several wealthy businessmen, including Julian Hui, Poon Wai-sum, and Choi Chee-ming. However, none of these reported relationships resulted in a lasting romance.
In 2008, at the height of her career, Gigi Lai unexpectedly announced her retirement from the entertainment industry, leaving many fans disappointed. She later married businessman Patrick Ma Ting-kung, who came from a wealthy family and was reportedly worth approximately HK$1 billion. Ma has used a wheelchair due to mobility difficulties resulting from an accident in his youth.
After getting married, Gigi Lai largely withdrew from the entertainment industry to focus on her family. She and her husband welcomed three daughters. The couple have maintained a relatively private lifestyle, rarely discussing their personal lives in the media.
From TVB Star to Successful Businesswoman
Since leaving show business, Gigi Lai has devoted much of her time to developing and managing her beauty and medical aesthetics business. Over the years, she has served as chairwoman and chief executive officer, earning admiration for balancing her responsibilities as a mother and wife with her growing business career.
The former actress also regularly attends corporate events and participates in charitable activities. On social media, she occasionally shares heartwarming photos with her husband and three daughters, offering glimpses into their happy family life.
Now in her mid-50s, Gigi Lai continues to receive praise for her youthful appearance, slender figure, and elegant presence. She maintains a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, jogging, and a balanced diet.
During her 55th birthday celebration in early October, Gigi Lai shared joyful family photos on social media. The former actress reflected on how people often ask what birthday present she would like to receive. For her, however, the greatest gift is having loved ones who care for her and remain by her side.
“To me, a birthday isn’t just a day for myself, but also a day to express gratitude. I’m grateful to my family because this is the day my parents brought me into the world. I’m grateful to have a wonderful group of friends and colleagues who have always supported and accompanied me,” she wrote.
Sources: kenh14