Kung Fu’s ‘Fire Cloud Evil God’ Liang Xiaolong Dies at 77
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A celebrated figure in Hong Kong cinema, Liang Xiaolong, best known for his role as the villain “Fire Cloud Evil God” in Stephen Chow’s Kung Fu, has died at the age of 77 on Thursday, September 14th. News of his passing was confirmed by friends to Hong Kong media outlet Sing Tao Headlines.
A Legacy Forged in Martial Arts Cinema
Liang Xiaolong’s career spanned decades, establishing him as a prominent figure amongst the “Four Dragons” of Hong Kong martial arts cinema – alongside Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Ti Lung. He initially gained recognition in television, portraying Chen Zhen, a disciple of Huo Yuanjia, in the 1981 series Fearless Heroes. He reprised the role as the lead character Chen Zhen in the 1982 television series Chen Zhen.
However, by the mid-1980s, Liang Xiaolong stepped away from the entertainment industry, choosing to pursue business ventures in mainland China. This period marked a significant shift in his career, moving away from the spotlight of film and television.
A Resurgence with Stephen Chow
Liang Xiaolong experienced a career revival in 2004 when he was invited by acclaimed director Stephen Chow to play the memorable antagonist, “Fire Cloud Evil God,” in the blockbuster film Kung Fu. This role reignited his popularity, leading to further appearances in numerous movies and television series. The character became iconic, solidifying Liang Xiaolong’s place in the hearts of fans.
The family is currently managing funeral arrangements privately, with a ceremony anticipated to take place on September 26th in Longgang, Shenzhen. His passing marks the end of an era for Hong Kong cinema and leaves a void for fans of martial arts films worldwide.
