From Jackie Chan stuntman to Hong Kong Film Awards best actor, Tai Bo tells his story

Having shot over 250 films in 51 years, actor Tai Bo talks about working with famous and up-and-coming directors and preparing for his roles

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Hong Kong actor Tai Bo receives his Star Asia Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2024 New York Asian Film Festival. Photo: NYAFF

Daniel Eagan

Published: 4:15pm, 23 Jul 2024Updated: 8:39am, 24 Jul 2024

His tall, lanky frame is instantly recognisable, whether he is playing crooks or cops, waiters or executives.

Since his debut in 1973, Tai Bo has appeared in, by his count, well over 250 films. Whether it’s a thriller, comedy, martial-arts blockbuster, or an indie passion project, he brings the same skill and professionalism to every role.

Over his career, the actor has shifted from playing underlings, thugs and triad members to dramatic, award-winning roles. His recent roles have run the gamut from hardened gangster to remorseful father, lover to demonic victim.

When we sit down for this interview, Tai Bo is in New York – his first visit to the city – to receive the Star Asia Lifetime Achievement Award from the New York Asian Film Festival. Past recipients of the honour include filmmaker Yuen Woo-ping.

Tai Bo (left), pictured alongside Ben Yuen, won the best actor prize at the 2020 Hong Kong Film Awards for his role in Suk Suk.

“To be considered in the same category makes me feel very humble,” he says. “When I started as a 17-year-old, I never imagined I would be in this position.”