On 8/8, the 61-year-old actress surprised fans by posting her first video on the social media platform Red Note, offering glimpses into her recent life. Within a day, the video garnered nearly 70,000 likes, almost 50,000 comments, and hundreds of thousands of shares. Keywords related to Cheung quickly trended on Weibo and Douyin.
When friends asked why she joined social media, Cheung admitted she had no specific reason. "But that’s okay," she explained, "many things don’t require an answer. The right time is personal; it’s when you feel it’s right." She plans to create more videos sharing aspects of her life, including recent events, joyful moments, helpful tips, things she’s learning, and even odd occurrences.
Cheung has largely remained out of the public eye since retiring from acting in 2012, making only a few public appearances and keeping her private life undisclosed. Occasional paparazzi photos sparked rumors among some bloggers, who described her as lonely, sad, and fading.
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Actress Maggie Cheung. Photo: Sina |
According to Mingpao, Cheung divides her time between Europe and Hong Kong, enjoying travel. She often explores parks and streets by bicycle and spends time with her pets. Whether with friends or alone, Cheung says she savors each moment, embracing the concept of "living in the present." She feels she truly understands herself now, recognizing her likes and dislikes, which has brought a sense of ease and comfort. She finds joy in the smallest things.
Cheung keeps busy with personal development, honing her vocal skills, exercising at the gym, and learning to make environmentally friendly candles and soaps to gift to friends.
In an interview with Famous, the actress explained that she left acting to experience life more authentically, enrich her soul, and pursue new interests. Having saved diligently, she felt financially secure enough to retire and do what she loves.
Cheung has kept her romantic life private. She has had several relationships, including with director Yim Ho, businessman Song Xueqi, and French businessman Guillaume Brochard. She married French director Olivier Assayas in 1998 but divorced three years later. "Marriage made me realize I'm not suited for it at all," she stated.
Cheung joined TVB in 1983 after winning first runner-up in the Miss Hong Kong pageant. The same year, she competed in Miss World, placing in the top 15. Her notable TVB roles include Police Cadet and The Feud of Two Families.
According to Mtime, Cheung created numerous memorable characters in both period and contemporary films, including New Dragon Gate Inn, Green Snake, Ashes of Time, Hero, Centre Stage, In the Mood for Love, Comrades: Almost a Love Story, and Clean. She won Best Actress at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival for her role in Clean, directed by Olivier Assayas.
Nghinh Xuan
