The Hong Kong entertainment industry is in mourning following the sudden passing of Lawrence Yan, a beloved actor known for his elegance and gentlemanly presence on screen. He passed away at the age of 59 on October 21, reportedly from a heart attack while in Shanghai for a golf event.
According to his family, Lawrence Yan had arrived in Shanghai just one day before his passing to prepare for a golf competition. Tragically, he suffered a sudden cardiac arrest during a practice session.
Lawrence Yan’s wife announced that his funeral will be held privately, in keeping with his humble and gracious nature. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to fans and friends who had supported her husband through his career, asking that people remember him as a man who always approached his craft with sincerity and dedication.
Born in 1966, Lawrence Yan began his career as a model before transitioning into acting. He became one of ATV’s most recognizable faces during the 1990s, achieving widespread fame for his portrayal of Jin Chiu in the historical series Heroic Legend of the Yang’s Family.
With his refined looks, calm demeanor, and intelligent acting style, Yan earned the affectionate title of “the most handsome Jin Chiu”, a label that followed him throughout his career.
The news of Lawrence’s death has shocked colleagues and fans alike. Fellow actor and close friend Derek Kwok shared on social media: “I can’t believe it. We were just chatting not long ago… and now he’s gone. My heart feels so heavy.”
Other friends recalled that they had planned to meet for a reunion, only to be met with heartbreaking news.
Adding to the sorrow, just a day before his passing, Lawrence Yan had posted a cheerful video on social media, showing himself enjoying a meal, smiling, and full of vitality. Fans were stunned by the suddenness of his death, noting that he had appeared in good health.
According to reports, Lawrence Yan suffered the heart attack while playing golf, a sport he had become passionate about after stepping away from acting and working as a golf instructor.
Tributes have poured in from across Hong Kong and mainland China, with many fans expressing grief over the loss of another star from the golden era of Hong Kong television.
Fans also noted that Yan’s passing follows a string of recent losses among veteran actors, symbolizing the gradual end of an iconic period in Hong Kong entertainment.
Though Lawrence Yan may have departed this world, his image as the “Most Handsome JIn Chiu” remains immortal. His performances captured the best qualities of Hong Kong drama’s golden years professionalism, charm, and a deep respect for storytelling.
Sources: Saostar,Ming Pao Dail,HK01 Entertainment