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| Liu Xuehua Laughs Off Wild Rumours About Losing Teeth for Her Film Role |
Veteran actress Liu Xuehua (Leanne Liu), now 65, has once again reminded everyone what true professionalism looks like.
The Hong Kong-born star, known for her unforgettable performances in Chiung Yao’s classic Taiwanese romances, recently caused quite a stir after appearing almost unrecognisable in her latest Chinese film Row to Win.
In the movie, Liu Xuehua plays Ah Tai, a tough but loving 90-year-old grandmother whose story forms the emotional backbone of the film.
Her deeply aged, toothless look led some fans to wonder whether she had actually removed all her teeth to perfect the role.
But Leanne Liu took the wild claim in stride — and with her trademark sense of humour.
“I didn’t pull them out for the movie,” she said with a laugh.
“They’re dentures! The director thought I still looked too young for the part, so I just took them out right there to show him I could look the part.”
The director, apparently stunned, immediately saw her potential for the role.
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Leanne Liu didn’t stop at removing her dentures.
To bring Ah Tai to life, she reportedly lost 8 kilograms through a strict low-oil, low-salt diet over three months, and studied the daily habits of elderly women living alone to mimic their movements authentically.
She even practised local dialects and embraced every wrinkle and age spot, refusing any beauty enhancements or digital touch-ups.
Her castmate Yin Tao praised Liu’s dedication, saying, “She’s incredibly professional — I thought her aged look was CGI or special makeup at first!”
Behind the scenes, Liu Xuehua’s transformation has drawn comparisons to her early career — the elegant, tearful heroines in Several Degrees of Sunset Red and Romance in the Rain who once defined a generation’s idea of beauty.
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Decades later, she’s proving that real artistry means owning your age and embracing the challenge.
Row to Win (浪浪人生) is adapted from Cai Chongda’s acclaimed essay collection “Skin” and stars Huang Bo, Fan Chengcheng, Yin Tao, and Liu Xuehua.
The film explores family, illness, and reconciliation, following a father who returns home burdened by sickness to reconnect with his loved ones — including his fiery, ageing mother Ah Tai.
In the end, Liu Xuehua’s portrayal isn’t just about playing old — it’s about honouring the resilience of women who’ve lived long, hard lives. And judging by how naturally she pulled off the look (with or without teeth), the internet might owe her an apology — and a standing ovation.