Actress Kathy Chow’s ashes brought back to Hong Kong after cremation in China

Actress Kathy Chow. Photo from Chow’s management agency’s Weibo

The actress’ family said they did so to “allow her to return to her roots,” according to Chinese news site Ifeng.

Chow passed away on Dec. 11 due to illness, as confirmed by her management agency and family.

Chinese news site St Headline reported that the actress had been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, a condition that wasn’t made public prior to her death. This autoimmune disease causes inflammation and tissue damage in various organs, affecting joints, skin, brain, and lungs.

St Headline also reported that Chow left behind significant assets, including a villa in Beijing valued at over 100 million yuan (approximately US$14 million). Her mother is named as the beneficiary of these assets, with Chow’s siblings choosing not to claim any inheritance.

In addition to her estate, Chow’s family has taken responsibility for her beloved pet dogs and cats, bringing them to Hong Kong.

Born in 1966, Chow gained fame for her lead roles in drama series produced by TVB, a television broadcasting company in Hong Kong.

She rose to prominence with her portrayal of Zhou Zhiruo in the 1994 TV adaptation of Jin Yong’s wuxia novel “The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber.”

Additionally, on Dec. 13, the head of an orphanage in Beijing revealed Chow’s long-standing philanthropic efforts. The actress had been contributing funds, visiting the orphanage and bringing toys and warm clothes for orphan children, as well as supporting their education for many years.