 |
| Veteran Actor Don Li Quietly Retires from Showbiz |
Hong Kong’s once-rising heartthrob Don Li — or Li Yat Long if you prefer his full name — has officially stepped away from the entertainment spotlight, confirming he’s no longer active in acting or music. And this time, it’s not a rumour — it’s straight from the man himself.
The 43-year-old actor and singer, best remembered for his roles in TVB’s cult-favourite youth drama Four Leaves Clover and family series A Handful of Love, shared the news via social media, revealing that he’s actually been out of the game for quite some time now.
“I’ve already left the entertainment industry… haven’t sung professionally in years!” Don casually revealed in a recent Douyin (TikTok China) video, adding that he’s now more focused on sharing snippets of his everyday life and throwbacks from his past projects.
A Gentle Fade Out, Not a Grand Exit
 |
| Don Li (left) |
Unlike the usual dramatic retirement announcements, Don’s departure from the limelight has been a slow and steady fade-out. In fact, he admitted that the last few films he did were shot during the pandemic and haven’t even made it to cinemas yet. So, for those wondering if this is a sudden decision — it really isn’t.
Taking to Instagram, Don further explained:
“I haven’t filmed any dramas in years. It’s not really news that I’ve stepped back. Right now, I’m just trying to live my best life — working, spending time with family, catching up with friends, travelling… and honestly, that’s enough for me.”
A Brush with Monastic Life
Earlier this year, fans were stunned when Don posted photos of himself in monk’s robes while undergoing a short-term spiritual retreat in India. Shaved head and all. Some speculated heartbreak had driven him to this decision, but Don has since clarified that it was simply a personal and solemn journey.
“It was a serious and respectful practice. No need to overthink it. Life has different stages, and I’m loving where I’m at right now.”
More Than Just a TV Face
Don kicked off his career in 2003 as one half of the duo Don & Mandy, alongside singer Mandy Chiang. Their Cantopop charm quickly drew comparisons to Leslie Cheung — especially Don’s distinctive voice and stage aura. While his early fame came from teen-centric idol dramas, he also branched into serious film, earning critical praise for his role in the award-winning thriller Port of Call.
He even took on roles in Mainland Chinese productions, including Zhang Xiaowu’s Spring, showing that he wasn’t afraid to cross regional lines in his career.
But despite the early spark and occasional comeback (he briefly returned to TVB in 2022), Don never quite returned to the centre stage. His contract with TVB ended quietly in 2024, and now it seems he has no plans to step back in front of the camera — or behind the mic.
A Quiet Thank You to Fans
In true Don Li fashion — no fuss, no flair — he ended his post with a calm gratitude:
“Thank you to everyone who’s supported me all these years. I’m still around, just living a different kind of life.”
And just like that, the showbiz chapter closes for one of TVB’s quietly iconic stars.