The video, posted on Threads on 22/4 by Ngo Kim Ngan, a 21-year-old third-year international student majoring in Chinese Language and Literature at Peking University, rapidly accumulated over 393,000 views and 36,000 likes. In the clip, Ma Dehua introduced himself as the iconic Pigsy and recalled a previous visit to Vietnam. He expressed: "Vietnam is a wonderful country, and its people are incredibly warm. I hope the friendship between Vietnam and China remains strong forever."

Actor Ma Dehua greets the Vietnamese audience. *Video: Ngo Kim Ngan provided*

The actor's appearance evoked strong nostalgia among many viewers. Comments poured in, with one attracting 364 likes, stating: "He is a memory for so many people; just seeing him brings it all back." Another user remarked on the aging cast, noting: "The cast of the film is now elderly, and many are no longer with us. It's very fortunate to meet them; congratulations to you."

Kim Ngan filmed the interaction eight days prior, on 14/4, when Ma Dehua was a guest speaker for a "Journey to the West" and Chinese Culture class at Peking University. She encountered him while picking up a friend and seized the opportunity to interact. Impressed by his friendly demeanor, she requested a greeting for Vietnamese fans, stating: "Because many generations of viewers adore the film, I asked him to send greetings to capture the memory."

Actor Ma Dehua (fourth from right) interacts with students at Peking University (China) on 14/4. *Photo: Ngo Kim Ngan provided*

Ma Dehua, 81, was born in Beijing, China, and began his career in Peking Opera. After achieving widespread fame as Pigsy, he transitioned into film and television. His credits include "Chairman Impostor" and "Waiting for You in Heaven". In recent years, he has focused on television appearances and writing.

Xinhua lauded Ma Dehua's portrayal of Pigsy as classic and enduringly popular across generations. He adeptly captured the character's blend of lovable laziness, cunning, gluttony, and underlying loyalty. Beyond acting, China Times reports that Ma Dehua is proficient in Japanese, skilled in ballet, and practices calligraphy.

Ma Dehua in "Journey to the West" (1986), directed by Yang Jie. *Video: CCTV*

According to QQ, Ma Dehua enjoys a peaceful retirement alongside his wife, Hou Yu Min. With their only son living independently, the couple spends their days maintaining their home, tending to plants, and grocery shopping. Ma Dehua noted that over nearly 50 years of marriage, they have had occasional minor disagreements but always resolved them with mutual respect and tolerance, ensuring their bond remains strong.

Cat Tien