Patrick Tse Cremated: Tributes from Cecilia Cheung, Jackie Chan, and Stephen Chow

Singapore, Singapore Jul 21, 2026 ALN: Patrick Tse, a prominent figure in the Hong Kong film industry, was cremated on July 20, following his death at the age of 89 due to pneumonia on July 16. According to reports, Tse passed away in the hospital, an event that has triggered a wave of tributes from fans and fellow celebrities alike. His passing marks a significant moment in the history of Hong Kong cinema, as he was not only a celebrated actor but also a filmmaker who contributed to the evolution of the industry over several decades.

Born Tse Ka Yuk, Patrick Tse was affectionately known as Sei Gor, or "fourth brother," a nickname that reflects his position as one of the elder statesmen of Hong Kong cinema. His career spanned several decades, during which he became a beloved actor and filmmaker, known for his versatile performances and significant contributions to the industry. Tse's body of work includes a wide array of genres, from romantic dramas to action films, showcasing his ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels. His passing has left a void in the hearts of many who admired his work and character, as he was regarded as a mentor and an inspiration to many young actors.

In the wake of his death, Tse's family reportedly held a simple ceremony at the hospital, eschewing public mourning in favor of a more private farewell. He was cremated at Wo Hop Shek Crematorium in Fanling, Hong Kong, a location that has been the final resting place for many notable figures in the region. Family members, including his ex-wife Deborah Lee and their children Nicholas and Jennifer, were present during the cremation. This intimate gathering reflects Tse's wishes for a low-key departure, emphasizing the importance of family and personal connections over public spectacle.

Deborah Lee, who was married to Tse for many years before their divorce, expressed her grief when approached by reporters at a shopping mall in Hong Kong. At 74 years old, she indicated that discussing the funeral arrangements was "not convenient" at that moment, underscoring the family's desire for privacy during this difficult time. In a poignant reflection of his wishes, Patrick Tse had previously stated, "I really hope I'll bid goodbye to the world at the happiest point of my life. I'll tell my good friends and family, 'Don't make it a big affair. Let me leave quietly.'" This sentiment highlights his preference for a low-key departure, consistent with the private nature of his family’s arrangements following his death.

The news of Tse's passing was shared by his children on social media, with Jennifer, a model and actress based in Canada, revealing that he died peacefully surrounded by family. She requested privacy as they navigated their grief, a request echoed by her brother Nicholas, who urged fans to remember their father with joy rather than sadness. Nicholas, a well-known actor and singer, had rushed back to Hong Kong from China, where he was preparing for a concert, to be by his father's side during his final moments. Their heartfelt messages serve as a reminder of the deep familial bonds that existed, even amidst the pressures of public life.

In terms of Tse's legacy, he reportedly left behind assets valued at approximately HK$100 million (around S$16.5 million). Allegations suggest that the majority of his estate—90 percent—will be inherited by his grandsons Lucas and Quintus, the children of Nicholas and his ex-wife Cecilia Cheung. Cheung, a prominent actress in her own right, has been a significant figure in the lives of the boys since her divorce from Nicholas in 2011. The remaining 10 percent of Tse's estate is believed to be allocated to his children, Nicholas and Jennifer, who also have their own families. This distribution of assets highlights the importance of family ties and the legacy that Tse leaves behind, not only in terms of wealth but also in values and memories shared among them.

Since the announcement of Patrick Tse's death, tributes have poured in from across the entertainment industry. Cecilia Cheung, though not verbalizing her grief, chose to change her social media profile pictures to black across multiple platforms, a gesture that resonated with many as a sign of mourning. This act reflects the profound impact Tse had on those who knew him and serves as a visual representation of collective sorrow within the community. Similarly, Coco Ma, a model and Tse's former girlfriend, also altered her profile picture to black on Douyin, indicating the impact Tse had on those who knew him. Such gestures illustrate the emotional weight of his passing and the lasting relationships he forged throughout his life.

Jackie Chan, a legendary action star and longtime friend of Tse, expressed his sorrow through a heartfelt Instagram and Weibo post. He reminisced about their long-standing friendship, recalling how Tse had looked after him during their early days in the industry when Chan was still a stuntman. Chan's reflection on their shared experiences and the respect he held for Tse underscores the deep bonds formed within the competitive landscape of Hong Kong cinema. Their camaraderie is a testament to the supportive network that exists among artists, particularly in an industry that can often be cutthroat.

Stephen Chow, another iconic figure in the industry, also paid tribute to Tse via an Instagram Story, stating, "May the best actor Patrick Tse rest in peace." Chow's acknowledgment of Tse's talent and influence is indicative of the respect that many in the industry have for him, particularly as they remember their collaborative work in the film "Shaolin Soccer" (2001), where Tse played the role of Coach Hung. This collaboration is just one example of how Tse's work transcended generations, influencing not only his contemporaries but also shaping the careers of those who followed.

Charmaine Sheh, who worked alongside Tse in the TVB series "Bet Hur" (2017), shared her memories of him, highlighting his dedication to his craft and his willingness to mentor younger actors. She recalled a moment during filming when Tse humorously encouraged her to adopt a stylish pose while playing poker, illustrating his playful and supportive nature. Sheh's tribute adds to the narrative of Tse as not just a talented actor but also a warm and generous mentor to those who followed in his footsteps. The stories shared by colleagues and mentees paint a picture of a man who was not only skilled in his profession but also deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of talent.

Singer-actress Charlene Choi also mourned the loss of Tse, expressing her gratitude for the joy he brought to her life and the wisdom he shared. Her heartfelt message reflects the sentiments of many who have been touched by Tse's contributions to the arts and his personal interactions with those around him. The outpouring of grief from a diverse array of individuals within the entertainment community serves as a testament to Tse's far-reaching influence and the relationships he cultivated throughout his life.

Patrick Tse's death marks the end of an era in Hong Kong cinema. His legacy as a pioneering actor and filmmaker will undoubtedly endure, as his work continues to inspire future generations. As tributes continue to flow in, it is clear that Tse was not only a talented artist but also a beloved figure whose impact will be felt long after his passing. His family's desire for privacy during this time of mourning is a reminder of the personal and emotional toll that such losses can have, even for those in the public eye. As the Hong Kong film community reflects on his life and contributions, Patrick Tse will be remembered for both his artistic achievements and the warmth he brought to his relationships with friends, family, and fans. In the coming days and weeks, it is expected that more stories and memories will emerge, further solidifying Tse's legacy in the annals of Hong Kong cinema history.