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Dicky Cheung
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Dicky Cheung
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Dicky Cheung Wai-kin (Chinese: 張衛健; Jyutping: Zoeng1 Wai6 Gin6) is a Hong Kong actor and singer.

Key Information

Early childhood

[edit]

Cheung grew up with a physically abusive father. His parents divorced when Cheung was 14.[1]

Cheung was educated in St Francis Xavier's College in Hong Kong. He became interested in acting when he was in elementary school, stemming from his interest in analyzing human behaviour. For example, he always loved being in crowded streets or buses, where he could observe people and hear conversations. In plays, he would work as director, actor, and scriptwriter.

In 1984, he won the TVB International Chinese New Talent Singing Championship. However, it was not a good start of his singing career. No record company wanted to sign a contract with him. So he changed his career path to acting. In 1985, he signed a contract with TVB. However, the following eight years he only acted in small parts until 1991 when he finally got the chance to be the main actor in the TVB drama called "Laoyou Guigui"("A Step Beyond"). Later, he gained the lead role in Journey to the West, where he gained many fans and supporters in Hong Kong.

Career

[edit]

He entered show business in the early 1980s, signing a contract with television station TVB. He won the third annual New Talent Singing Awards in 1984. Up until the mid-90s, Cheung struggled for many years working as a low-paid actor, singer and appeared occasionally in films. It was not until his portrayal of the Monkey King character in the 1996 TVB drama Journey to the West, an adaptation of the classical Chinese novel Journey to the West, that his popularity began to skyrocket. A sequel to the TV adaptation was planned, but due to a contract dispute with TVB, Cheung left before production began. Benny Chan Ho Man took over the role of the Monkey King in the sequel. Cheung then went abroad to Taiwan to continue his career.

Cheung's most notable performance that made him famous was his portrayal of the Monkey King in the 1996 TVB adaptation of the classic Chinese tale Journey to the West. As well as being the lead character, Cheung also sang the theme song as well as many other songs throughout the series. This series was very popular during its run on TVB Jade, it was even dubbed in English and broadcast on TVB Pearl, the only TVB series to receive this treatment to date. Cheung was also due to play the Monkey King in the sequel. However, due to a dispute regarding the contract, the role was given to Benny Chan Ho Man.

He has appeared in many Taiwanese television productions since going to Taiwan. In 1999, TVB's rival station ATV acquired the Hong Kong broadcasting rights to his Taiwanese television series Young Hero Fong Sai Yuk. Cheung played Fong Sai Yuk, a character also portrayed by Jet Li in his film Fong Sai Yuk. The show was an instant hit in Hong Kong and managed to gain much higher ratings than TVB's own television series. The TVB series showing at that time was Dragon Love, starring Benny Chan Ho Man, who replaced Cheung in the Journey to the West sequel,

In one of the TV adaptations of Louis Cha's Wuxia novel The Deer and the Cauldron. Cheung played the anti-hero Wai Siu-Bo, a character previously portrayed by Tony Leung Chiu-Wai, Stephen Chow and Jordan Chan in many television and film adaptations, in The Duke of Mount Deer.

In 2001, Andy Lau's NMG production company produced another television adaptation of Journey to the West. Cheung was given a chance to once again portray the role in The Monkey King: Quest for the Sutra. The series was broadcast in 2002 on TVB. Although it received high ratings, many felt it was not as good as the 1996 version.[citation needed]

Cheung played Shun in Kung Fu Soccer, a young talented soccer player originated from rural Guangdong whose also excels in kung-fu, yet suffers from short-term memory loss. The series was broadcast by TVB from December 2004 to January 2005, with Cheung sang the opening theme of the series.

After a 20-year absence, Cheung made his TVB comeback. He starred in TVB's 50th anniversary drama, The Learning Curve of a Warlord <大帥哥>, which was produced by Steven Tsui.

Personal life

[edit]

At the end of 1997, Cheung met his wife Jess Zhang (Zhang Qian), an actress in China. They were filming in the same location on separate productions. They formally met each other when Jess was humming the tune of "哎呀哎呀親親你" (Aiya, Aiya, Kissing You) and did not know who originally sang the song nor realize the original singer was in her presence. Their relationship then further developed when Cheung purchased a water bottle for Jess. In 2004，Cheung married Jess in Nanjing and had a separate wedding ceremony in Boracay in 2009.

Prior to his marriage with Jess, he was involved in brief relationships with the actresses Elvina Kong and Jessica Hsuan.[2]

He has said that he would like to eventually leave the acting business and seriously consider doing something more meaningful in life such as volunteering to give back to the society.

Filmography

[edit]

Television

[edit]

Films

[edit]
Year English title Chinese title Role
1985 Crazy Games 瘋狂遊戲
Young Cops 青春差館 Lan Pili
Puppy Love 鬥氣小神仙 Mi Gao
1988 The Good, the Bad & the Beauty 鬼馬保鏢賊美人 Policeman
1989 The Last Duel 再起風雲 Genghis Khan
福祿雙星
The Mentor 變節小人物 Zhang Chengming
1991 The Dare Devils 特技雙雄 Wang Guoxing
1992 The Thief of Time Chinese: 羣星會 Xiao Bing
To Miss With Love 逃學外傳 Zhang Yijian
1993 My Hero 2 一本漫畫闖天涯2之妙想天開 Zhang Jiankang
Last Hero in China 黃飛鴻之鐵雞鬥蜈蚣 Yacasu
Hero of Hong Kong 1949 壹九四九之劫後英雄傳 Chang Xiedi
Holy Weapon 武俠七公主 Wu Tong
Hero – Beyond the Boundary of Time 正牌韋小寶之奉旨勾女 Ya Chao
Even Mountains Meet 情天霹靂之下集大結局
Future Cops 超級學校霸王 Chen Daxiong
Vampire family 壹屋哨牙鬼 Di Long
Chez'n Ham 芝士火腿 Zhi Shi
Prince of Portland Street 缽蘭街大少 Da Dou
The Black Panther Warriors 黑豹天下 Computer child prodigy
1994 欲霸天下 Qiu Zihong
The Kung Fu Scholar 倫文敘老點柳先開 Lun Man Chui
Shaolin Popey II: Messy Temple 笑林小子II之新烏龍院 Huang Ningmeng
1997 The Dicky's Music Love Story 音樂愛情故事
知解時空 Zhang Haobei
2003 Golden Chicken 2 金雞2 Gao Shuiwen
2008 The Winners 奪標 Zhang Feng
2010 72 Tenants of Prosperity 72家租客 Zhi Dashi
2011 Summer Love Love 夏日戀神馬 Paranoid
2012 I Love Hong Kong 2012 2012我愛HK 喜上加囍
2013 The Palace 宮鎖沈香 Eunuch

[3][4]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Dicky Cheung

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Dicky Cheung Wai-kin (Chinese: 張衛健; born 8 February 1965) is a and singer best known for his iconic portrayal of the Monkey King in the 1996 TVB adaptation of the classical novel , which propelled him to stardom after years of struggling in the industry. Entering the entertainment industry in the early 1980s, Cheung signed with and won the third annual New Talent Singing Awards in 1984, marking his debut as a performer. Despite initial challenges, including low-paying roles as an and singer, his breakthrough came in the mid-1990s with comedic and roles in films such as (1993) and the aforementioned TV series, where his energetic and humorous depiction of the mischievous Monkey King earned widespread acclaim. Throughout the 2000s, Cheung expanded his portfolio with leading roles in popular series like Duke of Mount Deer (2000), where he played the clever Wai Siu-bo, and continued portraying the Monkey King in projects such as the TV series The Monkey King: Quest for the Sutra (2002). After moving to following his success, Cheung balanced work across , , and , later appearing on reality TV shows in the and and performing in concerts as of 2024–2025 to maintain his popularity. In his personal life, Cheung has been married to actress Jess Zhang Qian since 2004, with a second wedding ceremony held in 2009 following a in 2008; the couple has lived separately for much of their marriage due to her residence in and his base in , though they reunited periodically, including after extended separations during the . He has also been open about supporting his family from a young age and his past relationships with actresses and .

Early life

Family background

Dicky Cheung was born on February 8, 1965, in , into a modest working-class facing significant hardships. His father worked as a , spending most of the year away from home and returning only for brief periods, which strained the dynamics considerably. The household struggled financially, with limited resources that often left the unable to afford basic meals, reflecting the broader challenges of lower-income life in mid-20th-century . Cheung endured a physically abusive relationship with his , who inflicted severe beatings on him and his siblings during his infrequent visits home. One particularly traumatic incident occurred when Cheung was around seven or eight years old; he was pummeled so violently for whistling at a passing car that he nearly suffocated, leaving deep emotional scars. His brother also suffered similar physical punishments, fostering an environment of constant fear and instability within the . These experiences contributed to Cheung's long-held resentment toward his father, manifesting in dreams of revenge during his childhood. The family's difficulties culminated in his parents' divorce when Cheung was 14 years old, an event that brought him a of relief rather than profound grief, given the ongoing . Emotionally, the separation intensified his of responsibility, as he became the primary provider for his mother and sibling shortly thereafter, amid continued financial precarity in their home. Over time, influenced by his mother's resilience and despite the hardships, Cheung reconciled with his past, choosing as a path forward.

Education and early interests

Dicky Cheung attended St. Francis Xavier's College, a Catholic in , where he received his formal education during his teenage years. The institution's emphasis on discipline and community activities shaped his early development, though he eventually dropped out at age 17 to support his family financially following personal hardships. During his time at the school, Cheung actively participated in drama clubs and stage performances, often taking on multifaceted roles such as director, scriptwriter, , and prop manager for school productions. These experiences ignited his passion for , as he immersed himself in observing —sitting on streets or crowded buses to study people for authentic portrayals—and found theater a vital outlet for self-expression. The of his parents at age 14 further motivated him to channel emotions through artistic endeavors like these school activities. Cheung's early exposure to music also began through school-related pursuits, developing a keen in singing by age 14, which he pursued alongside his theatrical involvement. By the mid-1980s, after leaving formal education, he transitioned into aspiring performer status, balancing odd jobs with vocal practice in local lounges to hone his talents before entering the professional entertainment scene.

Career

Entry and early roles

Dicky Cheung's entry into the entertainment industry was marked by his victory in the third annual New Talent Singing Awards organized by in 1984, where he clinched the top prize at age 19. This win served as his breakthrough moment, showcasing his vocal abilities and opening doors to professional opportunities in Hong Kong's competitive media landscape. Following the awards, Cheung signed a contract with TVB in 1985, transitioning from amateur performances to a structured career in television. Under this agreement, he began focusing on acting, leveraging his prior experience in school dramas as preparation for on-screen work. Despite his singing success, TVB initially positioned him in acting roles, limiting his immediate musical pursuits. From 1985 to 1990, Cheung appeared in supporting roles across various TVB productions, including minor dramas and variety segments that highlighted his comedic timing and versatility. Notable early credits include portraying Chun Kit in the 20-episode series Happy Spirit (1985), a supporting part as Zhang Wang Dai in the 60-episode historical drama The Turbulent Decade (1986), and Sam Yin in the 28-episode wuxia series The Legend of the Book and Sword (1987). He also took on roles such as a king in The Saga of the Lost Kingdom (1988) and an unnamed character in Withered in the Wind (1988), often in ensemble casts that provided exposure but rarely leading parts. Throughout this period, Cheung faced significant initial struggles, including as a youthful or due to his energetic , which overshadowed his talent. Limited opportunities plagued his early years, as he worked for low pay and competed fiercely for in an industry dominated by established stars, delaying his rise until the mid-1990s.

Breakthrough and peak years

Dicky Cheung's career gained significant momentum in the late through key television roles on , building on his early contract with the station that provided a platform for his versatile performances. His breakthrough came with the lead role of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, in the 1996 TVB series , an adaptation of the classic Chinese novel. To prepare for the physically demanding role, Cheung underwent rigorous training in and , incorporating his own improvisational style to bring a fresh, energetic interpretation to the mischievous character. The series achieved high ratings upon its premiere on in November 1996, catapulting Cheung to stardom and establishing him as one of Hong Kong's most popular actors, with his portrayal praised for its humor and dynamism. Building on this success, Cheung starred as Wei Xiaobao in the 2000 TVB-Taiwanese co-production The Duke of Mount Deer, another of a Louis Cha novel, where he showcased his comedic talents through the cunning and roguish protagonist. The series highlighted Cheung's ability to blend humor with witty dialogue, further solidifying his reputation as a leading comedic in television. Other notable TVB series during this period included The Justice of Life (1989), where Cheung played a supporting role that demonstrated his dramatic potential, and Where I Belong (1990), which allowed him to explore family-oriented narratives. Later, in Kung Fu Soccer (2004–2005), he portrayed Tong Siu Shun (Little Sun), a talented rural youth excelling in both kung fu and soccer, blending action and comedy in a modern setting that appealed to younger audiences. As his fame peaked in the 1990s and early 2000s, Cheung transitioned to more dramatic roles, particularly after moving to following the success, where he starred in series like (1999). This shift earned him international recognition within media, as ATV acquired broadcasting rights for his Taiwanese works, outrating some productions and expanding his appeal across .

Hiatus and recent activities

Following his departure from in 1997 amid a dispute over the planned sequel to , Cheung reduced his TVB commitments to prioritize family time with his wife and young daughter while pursuing selective projects in and . He later clarified that the exit stemmed partly from frustrations with production decisions and compensation negotiations, rather than outright conflict, allowing him to explore personal ventures outside the demanding TV schedule. During the 2010s, Cheung maintained a low profile in acting with sporadic film roles, including a supporting part as Catchpole in the ensemble comedy 72 Tenants of Prosperity (2010) and a lead in the thriller Slaughtering Place (2011). He also appeared in mainland Chinese television series such as Swordsman (2013) and Heroes of Sui and Tang Dynasties (2012), marking occasional returns to the screen amid his focus on music and family. Cheung staged a notable comeback to in 2018, starring as the eccentric warlord Sing Ho-lung in the 50th anniversary production The Learning Curve of a Warlord, a series that aired to positive reception and highlighted his enduring comedic style. His decision was driven by nostalgia for his early career roots, gratitude toward for launching him, and appreciation for longtime fans, though he described the role as potentially his final major acting commitment to shift toward other priorities. In recent years, Cheung has largely avoided scripted acting, instead channeling efforts into live music performances and non-entertainment pursuits up to 2025, such as charity initiatives and sharing personal stories of resilience at schools. Highlights include his solo Dicky Cheung Macau Concert 2024 at Studio City Event Center and joint tours like the "Music DNA" show with in early 2025, alongside the "Big Four" revival concert, which took place in August 2025 at the . As of late 2025, he continues selective brand endorsements, notably as Maurice Lacroix's first since 2011, emphasizing perseverance in his public image.

Music career

Singing debut and albums

Following his victory in the TVB New Talent Singing Awards in 1984, Dicky Cheung launched his music career under the television station's contract, contributing songs to various programs and marking his initial foray into recording as a singer alongside acting roles. His first commercial singles appeared in the mid-1980s, often tied to TVB productions as promotional crossovers, though full-length albums emerged later as his profile grew. Cheung's debut studio album, True or False (真真假假), arrived in 1992 via Warner Music , featuring upbeat tracks like the "Who Is a Clown" that showcased his playful vocal style and helped establish his presence in the music scene. This was followed by Stand Out (出位) in 1993 and 180°+ in 1994, both under Warner, which blended pop melodies with lighthearted themes reflective of his comedic persona from series. By the mid-1990s, his music gained momentum, particularly through ties to the 1996 series , where he portrayed the Monkey King and performed multiple songs integrated into the show for promotional synergy. The Journey to the West EP, titled YO! Dicky Cheung's Journey to the West (YO!張衛健之西遊記) and released in 1996 by Rock Records, captured this peak with four tracks: "Journey to the West" (西遊記, the opening theme), "Spell Umordor" (法術烏魔多, an insert song), "Heaven Beyond Heaven" (天外有天), and "Song of Wine" (把酒狂歌). These songs, performed in character, topped airplay charts on Hong Kong stations like RTHK and Commercial Radio, boosting the album's popularity and contributing to Cheung's breakthrough as a recording artist amid the series' massive viewership. Other 1990s releases, such as Dream Lover (夢中情人) in 1995, Hot Winter (這個冬天會很熱) and Heaven Knows (天知道) in 1996 from Fancy Pie Records, further solidified his output with romantic and energetic pop numbers that charted moderately in Hong Kong during the Cantopop boom. Entering the , Cheung's albums shifted toward a mix of pop and comedic elements, aligning with his evolving on-screen image. The 1998 releases I Don't Wanna Say Good-Bye and Tear Saying (眼淚說...) from Fancy Pie explored more emotional ballads, receiving positive reception for their mature lyrics while achieving solid sales in Hong Kong's competitive market. His album I Am (Not :) Dicky (我(不: ) 是張衛健), released by BMG, leaned into humor with self-deprecating titles and tracks like satirical takes on fame, blending pop with light to appeal to fans of his work; it sold respectably and marked a creative pivot before a period of reduced output. After departing in the early , Cheung transitioned to more independent music endeavors, including forming the group Big Four with , , and in 2009. Their debut album The Big Hits Big Four in 2010 featured chart-topping singles like "Big Four" and "Unable to Love," which dominated airplay charts and revived interest in his singing career through collaborative pop anthems. In the 2010s, he focused on sporadic solo releases, primarily singles for TVB comebacks, such as "Da " (大無畏, theme for Mr. Big Shot in 2018) and "Mi Yun" (蜜運, end credits for the same series), distributed independently via digital platforms and emphasizing his versatile, character-driven style. Later solo singles included "疼愛" (2021, theme for Sui Tang Yingxiong 3) and "天忍藏锋" (2022). The Big Four released their album 赤子們 in 2025.

Live performances and concerts

Dicky Cheung's early live performances in the and were closely tied to his TVB contract, beginning with his victory in the third annual New Talent Singing Awards in 1984, a televised competition that launched his career. These appearances often featured promotional showcases for TVB dramas and specials, where Cheung performed upbeat pop numbers and comedic skits to engage audiences. By the early , he expanded to broader events, including the Hong Kong Celebrities Christmas Concert held December 23–25, 1993, at in , , alongside stars like Pauline Yong and Canty Lau, blending holiday songs with lighthearted entertainment. In the 2000s, Cheung's live outings shifted toward collaborative tours, with notable appearances including dual performances with singer at Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort on June 14 and 15, 2009, in , , drawing crowds with a mix of hits and interactive segments. This period marked the formation of the Big Four supergroup in 2009 with , , and , leading to their inaugural World Tour in 2010 at the from March 11–15, which celebrated their collective milestones through medleys of 1980s and 1990s tracks. Although primarily a group effort, these shows highlighted Cheung's dynamic stage presence and , often featuring staples like "True or False" from his 1992 album. Cheung's solo momentum built toward the 2020s with the "You Worth Me Waiting" Macau Concert on February 12, 2024, at Studio City Event Center, where tickets started at MOP 688 and the two-hour show showcased romantic ballads and high-energy numbers for audiences. A planned during rehearsals—involving Cheung playing a grand piano suspended and rotating 360 degrees mid-air—went awry when the supporting wires snapped, causing him and the instrument to fall approximately three meters to the stage floor; Cheung emerged unscathed and proceeded with the performance after confirming his well-being to fans via . Marking 40 years in entertainment since his 1985 TVB debut, Cheung reunited with the Big Four for the "Happy to See You All Concert 2025" at the from August 9–11, 2025, reviving their signature camaraderie with nostalgic setlists and sold-out crowds. Earlier that year, he co-headlined the Music DNA Tour with , performing at venues like Reno Events Center on February 15 and Pechanga Resort Casino on February 16 in the United States, emphasizing their shared musical heritage through duo renditions of career-spanning hits.

Personal life

Relationships and marriage

In the 1990s, Dicky Cheung was involved in brief romantic relationships with fellow Hong Kong actresses and , both of whom he had co-starred with in television productions. Cheung met actress Jess Zhang in late 1997 while working on a project in , and the couple began dating soon after. They married in a private ceremony in in 2004, followed by a lavish second wedding at the San Agustin Cathedral in , , on January 12, 2009, attended by close friends and family. The 2009 event was particularly meaningful, as it came shortly after the couple endured the loss of a pregnancy in spring 2008, with Cheung publicly stating that the ceremony helped them move forward while emphasizing resilience in their relationship. Post-marriage, Cheung and Zhang have maintained a long-distance , with Cheung based in for his career and Zhang residing in to be near her family and support her own acting pursuits. Despite the separation, which has lasted nearly two decades, they have sustained their bond through daily phone calls, mutual trust, and a pact to always be honest, as Cheung shared in a 2019 interview, noting that he respects her independence and avoids pressuring her to relocate. The couple has no children, with Cheung expressing in public statements as recently as 2021 that he feels unprepared for fatherhood due to his own maturity level and ongoing family responsibilities; as of 2025, they remain childless. Cheung has occasionally addressed rumors of , such as in 2023 when he dismissed about a sighting with another woman by reaffirming his commitment to Zhang and sharing recent photos of them together. He has spoken about balancing fame with personal life by prioritizing open communication and avoiding the spotlight on their private matters, crediting this approach for the longevity of their marriage amid his high-profile career. This family focus has influenced his professional choices, including career hiatuses to care for his aging mother.

Philanthropy and interests

Dicky Cheung has engaged in several charitable efforts throughout his career, particularly in disaster relief and crises. In March 2020, amid the , he independently donated face masks to medical organizations in , which had become the epicenter of the outbreak at the time, as well as to facilities in Hubei Province and earlier that year. In 2005, Cheung traveled to with other Hong Kong celebrities, including , to provide support to victims of the South Asian , offering on-site assistance and raising awareness for relief efforts. He has also participated in high-profile activities, such as at celebrity-staffed phone lines for charities, where he helped solicit donations despite technical challenges that affected the event's outcome. In interviews, Cheung has expressed a strong personal commitment to expanding his involvement in volunteer work beyond his entertainment career, emphasizing a desire to "touch lives" through meaningful non-professional contributions. He has described this aspiration as a way to utilize his platform for greater social impact, noting that his comedic talents, while "God-given," inspire him to pursue as a parallel path to making a difference. Cheung's personal interests reflect a blend of creative and active pursuits outside his professional commitments. He has long enjoyed listening to music, singing casually, and participating in sports, activities that have remained consistent hobbies since his early career. Additionally, his affinity for comedy extends to improvisation, which he incorporates into daily life and reflections, drawing from his elementary school fascination with analyzing human behavior to fuel spontaneous creative expression. Marking the 40th anniversary of his entry into the entertainment industry via the 1984 New Talent Singing Awards in 2024, Cheung celebrated the milestone with revival performances, including the Big Four "BIG FOUR HAPPY TO SEE YOU ALL 2025" at the from August 9 to 11, 2025, with , , and , focusing primarily on his artistic legacy rather than new philanthropic drives.

Filmography

Television series

Dicky Cheung's television career primarily revolved around productions in , where he debuted as a young actor and rose to prominence through comedic and action-oriented roles in and period dramas. His early work featured supporting parts that showcased his versatility, evolving into lead roles that highlighted his and skills. Notable contributions include performing theme songs for several series, such as in . The following table lists his major TVB series appearances chronologically from 1985, focusing on key credits with role details, episode counts where available, and significant awards or impacts tied to the productions. Non-TVB guest roles and appearances are noted separately at the end.
YearTitleRoleEpisodesNotes
1985Happy SpiritChun Kit20Main role; early debut series on .
1986The Turbulent DecadeZhang Wang Dai60Support role; historical drama on .
1987The Legend of the Book and SwordSam Yin28Support role in adaptation on .
1988The Saga of the Lost KingdomKing35Support role on .
1988Withered in the WindUnspecified27Support role on .
1989The Justice of LifeLeading role30Early lead in crime drama on ; marked his transition to prominent billing.
1991Mystery of the Twin SwordsAh Yuet20Main role on .
1991Seung Tin Tong20Main role on .
1992Mystery of the Twin Swords Season 2Ah Yuet20Main role on .
1992Thief of HonourLau On Lung20Main role on .
1992Money and FameKwok Ho Fai20Main role on .
1992The Key ManUnspecified30Main role on .
1992 ReturnsUnspecified20Main role on ; comedic series.
1993The Edge of RighteousnessLuk A Choi30Main role on .
1996Sun Wu Kong (Monkey King)30Main role on ; breakthrough performance that boosted his fame; he also sang the theme song; no specific TV awards, but series achieved high ratings.
1998Happy Flying DragonMeng Xiao Shan50Main role on .
1998The Witty AttorneyJi27Main role on .
1999Young Hero Fang ShiyuFang Shi Yu40Main role on /ATV; series based on .
2000The Duke of Mount DeerWei Xiao Bo (Wai Siu-Bo)40Main role on ; adaptation of Louis Cha novel; praised for comedic portrayal.
2002The Monkey King: Quest for the SutraSun Ng Hong (Monkey King)40Main role on ; sequel to ; high ratings.
2004–2005Kung Fu SoccerLittle Sun20Main role on ; series blending and soccer.
2005The Proud TwinsXiao Yu Er40Main role on ; adaptation of novel.
2007Project AXiao La Ba36Main role on .
2008Seven Days that Shocked the WorldPrincipal Tan14Support role on ; historical drama.
2008The Kung Fu Master Wong Fei Hung33Main role on ; lead.
2018The Learning Curve of a Dik Kei30Main role on ; his return after 21 years; set in ; received positive reviews for reviving his style.
Beyond TVB, Cheung made appearances in non-TVB series, including Ru Chen (Monk) in The New Adventures of Chor Lau Heung (2001, Taiwanese, 40 episodes), Zhang Jun Bao in Taiji Prodigy (2002, Chinese/Taiwanese, 40 episodes, main role), and Lu Zhu Weng in Swordsman (2013, Chinese, 42 episodes). He also voiced the Monkey King in (2020–present, animated series). Up to 2025, recent scripted TV series roles include the ongoing , alongside appearances in variety shows and mainland Chinese productions.

Films

Dicky Cheung began his film career in the mid-, debuting with small supporting s in comedies and action films. His early appearances included Crazy Games (1985), Young Cops (1985), and (1985), where he played Michael, marking his entry into the industry as a versatile performer capable of blending humor with ensemble dynamics. By the late and early , Cheung transitioned to more prominent supporting parts, often in crime thrillers and romantic comedies. Notable examples include a policeman in The Good, the Bad & the Beauty (1987) and appearances in Lucky Star (1989) and The Last Duel (1989), which highlighted his emerging comedic timing amid fast-paced narratives typical of cinema during that era. His involvement also extended to musical elements, as seen in The Dare Devils (1991), where he contributed as both actor and singer. Cheung's breakthrough in films occurred in 1993, a prolific year that solidified his reputation for multifaceted roles in action-comedy hybrids. He starred as So in , directed by , portraying a Huang Feihong-inspired character with flair. In , he took on a triple role as Yu Ti Hung/Chan Tai Hung/, drawing from influences in a high-energy ensemble cast alongside and . Other key 1993 releases included Holy Weapon as Ng Tung, The Prince of Portland Street as Biggie, and Vampire Family as De Long/Delon, showcasing his ability to handle fantasy and gangster genres with physical comedy. These films, produced during Hong Kong's cinematic golden age, emphasized Cheung's agility in stunts and improvisation, contributing to his popularity among audiences seeking lighthearted escapism. In the mid-1990s, Cheung continued with lead and co-lead roles that leaned into martial arts satire. He played Lun Man Chui in The Kung Fu Scholar (1994), a comedic take on scholarly warriors, and appeared in Shaolin Popey II: Messy Temple (1994), further exploring temple-based humor. Later works reflected a shift toward ensemble dramas and occasional returns to comedy, such as Cheung Fung in the sports film Champions (2008), which celebrated underdog stories in basketball, and the historical epic The Palace (2013) as the Chief Eunuch. Over his career spanning 1985 to 2013, Cheung acted in 32 films, predominantly in comedy and action categories, often collaborating with directors like Wong Jing and starring alongside figures like Jet Li and Carina Lau, though his output tapered after the early 2000s as he focused more on television.

References

  1. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0156467/
  2. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/dicky-cheung-has-been-supporting-his-family-since-17/
  3. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/despite-his-god-given-talent-in-comedies-dicky-cheung-wants-to-do-more-volunteer-work-to-touch-lives/
  4. https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3159168/stars-1990s-hong-kong-film-jordan-chan-dicky-cheung-find
  5. https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/hk-singer-and-actor-dicky-cheung-celebrates-40th-year-ineentertainment-with-potential-big-four-revival-at-the-hk-coliseum/
  6. https://www.scmp.com/article/667266/wedding-bells-ease-pain-baby-loss
  7. https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/asian/dicky-cheung-reveals-why-he-and-his-wife-have-lived-apart-18-years-297571
  8. https://www.themoviedb.org/person/83489?language=en-US
  9. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/dicky-cheungs-struggles-in-life-abusive-father-and-financial-setbacks/
  10. https://kbizoom.com/dicky-cheung-childhood-trauma-forgiveness/
  11. https://min.news/en/entertainment/44ee7b3d54fdbd3249aa3f6dfca7f3ce.html
  12. https://www.epochtimes.com/b5/2/8/27/n211076.htm
  13. https://kknews.cc/entertainment/nyb6na5.html
  14. https://star.ettoday.net/news/1401161
  15. https://europe.chinadaily.com.cn/culture/2011-05/31/content_12613686.htm
  16. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0156467/bio/
  17. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/dicky-cheungs-road-to-stardom/
  18. https://mydramalist.com/people/1405-cheung-dicky
  19. https://wiki.d-addicts.com/Dicky_Cheung
  20. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0156467/bio
  21. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1459024/
  22. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10685792/
  23. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0439940/
  24. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/dicky-cheung-on-tvb-his-wife-and-lost-daughter/
  25. https://sg.style.yahoo.com/dicky-cheung-clarifies-rumoured-conflict-082000097.html
  26. https://hkmdb.com/db/people/view.mhtml?id=5571&display_set=eng
  27. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/dicky-cheungs-new-tvb-drama-the-learning-curve-of-a-warlord-holds-costume-fitting/
  28. https://38jiejie.com/tag/dicky-cheung/
  29. https://goodnewsmacau.com/hk-singer-dicky-cheung-to-have-macau-concert-12-february/
  30. https://www.facebook.com/asianconcertsusa/videos/dicky-cheung-andy-hui-music-dna-concert-%25E5%25BC%25B5%25E8%25A1%259B%25E5%2581%25A5-%25E8%25A8%25B1%25E5%25BF%2597%25E5%25AE%2589-%25E6%25BC%2594%25E5%2594%25B1%25E6%259C%2583/630577752991228/
  31. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCqfs9F87Ww
  32. https://www.europastar.com/news/1004083872-maurice-lacroix-announces-dicky-cheung-as-first.html
  33. https://www.qobuz.com/us-en/interpreter/dicky-cheung/529725
  34. https://www.discogs.com/artist/5389378-%E5%BC%B5%E8%A1%9B%E5%81%A5
  35. https://music.apple.com/us/album/yo-%E5%BC%B5%E8%A1%9B%E5%81%A5%E4%B9%8B%E8%A5%BF%E9%81%8A%E8%A8%98/1070447181
  36. https://www.discogs.com/release/12934015-Dicky-Cheung-I-Am-Not--Dicky
  37. https://open.spotify.com/artist/05U40G1dajZMe9KdTG8LTo
  38. https://open.spotify.com/artist/5aV8N1m8QyReq34R3qeUx0
  39. http://www.galaxy.com.my/prev/default-159.htm
  40. https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/dicky-cheung
  41. https://letterboxd.com/film/the-big-four-world-tour-live-in-hk/
  42. https://www.macaotourism.gov.mo/pt/events/whatson/9975
  43. https://www.straitstimes.com/life/entertainment/singer-dicky-cheung-says-he-is-fine-after-piano-reportedly-falls-on-him-during-concert-rehearsal
  44. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/elvina-kongs-on-divorce-it-is-not-a-blemish-in-life/
  45. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/jessica-hsuan-reveals-reason-for-breaking-up-with-dicky-cheung/
  46. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/dicky-cheungs-long-distance-marriage/
  47. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/dicky-cheung-opens-up-about-wifes-miscarriage-dont-forget-yourself/
  48. https://sg.style.yahoo.com/dicky-cheung-shares-tips-successful-090600247.html
  49. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/why-dicky-cheung-doesnt-want-to-be-a-dad-im-not-mature-enough/
  50. https://sg.style.yahoo.com/dicky-cheung-addresses-date-mystery-034000291.html
  51. https://www.todayonline.com/8days/sceneandheard/entertainment/dicky-cheung-took-break-work-care-his-81-year-old-mum-netizens-say
  52. https://www.jaynestars.com/news/dicky-cheung-donates-face-masks-to-italy/
  53. https://www.scmp.com/article/484507/hearts-city
  54. https://www.scmp.com/article/350383/phone-line-failure-may-have-cost-charity-500000
  55. https://apdicky-cheung.tripod.com/profile.htm
  56. https://uniteddaily.my/en/7f28eb00-2782-42a5-9b83-ea55a9be6bf7
  57. https://www.imdb.com/search/title/?role=nm0156467
  58. https://mydramalist.com/2633-journey-to-the-west-1996
  59. https://mydramalist.com/3701-young-hero-fang-shi-yu
  60. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0298701/
  61. https://mydramalist.com/727-the-proud-twins
  62. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10570132/
  63. https://mydramalist.com/7273-taiji-prodigy
  64. https://sg.style.yahoo.com/dicky-cheung-voice-legos-monkie-091300625.html
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