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Ronald Cheng
Ronald Cheng
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Ronald Cheng Chung-kei (born 9 March 1972) is a Hong Kong actor, singer and songwriter.

Key Information

Life and career

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Ronald Cheng was born in Hong Kong.[1] Originally intending to work behind the scenes as a songwriter and a producer, Cheng did odd jobs at his father (Director of EMI Asia)'s company EMI— which included doing backing vocalist for the likes of Alan Tam and Priscilla Chan — during summers as a youth. The lessons were apparently effective, as producers started taking notice of Cheng's voice and he was signed to a recording contract soon thereafter. Cheng first shot to popularity in Taiwan before returning home and enjoying some success in Hong Kong. However, his singing career went into a lull from 2000 to 2003 due to the infamous "air rage incident", when, on a flight from Los Angeles to Taipei, he became drunk and had an altercation with the flight attendant and co-pilot.[2] However, Cheng's career rebounded later.

Cheng returned to the Cantopop market in 2003, however success for him did not arrive until 2005, where his signature song "無賴" (Rascal) was voted one of the Top 10 songs at various music award shows, notably TVB's Jade Solid Gold, where it was voted the most popular song of 2005.[3]

Cheng won his first Best Supporting Actor award for his performance in Vulgaria at the 32nd Hong Kong Film Award.[4]

Cheng's song 《MY ONLY ONE》was awarded one of the Top 10 golden songs organized by VivTV, 《Chill Club》, presented on 18 April 2021 [5]

On 23 April 2021, Cheng held Hong Kong's first outdoor drive-in concert, entitled《Drive in Ultra – WEE are Ronald Cheng》. Many celebrities showed up to help out, including Josie Ho Chiu-yi, Ekin Cheng, Candy Lo and Kelly Chen etc.[6]

Personal life

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His father, Norman Cheng (鄭東漢), is the chairperson and CEO of EMI, and formerly of the Asia Pacific division of PolyGram and then Universal Music.

Ronald Cheng started his relationship with Charlene Choi, a Hong Kong singer and actress, in 2004, after starring as lovers in the film Hidden Heroes. Their marriage was kept secret from the public, and they avoided going out together except for family gatherings.[7] In 2010, while Choi announced ending the relationship with Cheng, the press revealed that they had registered their marriage in Los Angeles, United States in 2006.[8][9] Both Cheng and Choi admitted to the marriage, but decided to divorce.[1] Later, he dated Sammie Yu Sze-man, then a hostess in Cable TV Hong Kong, and Yu gave birth to a daughter in July 2011. They married in the same year[10] and later had a son in 2015.

Discography

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  • 1996
    • 左右為難 (In A Dilemma) – Mandarin Album
    • 別愛我 (Don't Love Me) – Mandarin Album
  • 1997
    • 情深 (Deep Love) – Cantonese Album
    • 最愛的人不是你 (You Are Not My Dearest Lover) – Mandarin EP
    • 絕口不提!愛你 (Never Say! Love You) – Mandarin Album
    • 戒情人 (Abstain From Love) – Mandarin Album
  • 1998
    • 時間 人物 地點 (Time, People, Place) – Mandarin / Cantonese New + Best Selections
    • 敵人 (Enemy) – Mandarin Album
  • 1999
    • 我真的可以 (I Really Can) – Mandarin Album
    • One More Time – Cantonese Album
  • 2000
    • 聲聲愛你 (Sounds Love You) – Mandarin New + Best Selections
    • 緣份無邊界 (Love Without Borderline) – Cantonese Compilation
    • 真朋友 (True Friend) – Mandarin Album
  • 2002
    • Encore – Mandarin New + Best Selections
  • 2003
    • 唔該, 救救我 (Please Help!!!) – Cantonese Album
    • 唔該, 救救我 "火紅火熱"版 (Please Help!!! - 2 AVCD Version) – Cantonese Album
  • 2005
    • Before After – Cantonese Album
  • 2006
    • 正宗K (Karaoke Cheng)[11] – Cantonese / Mandarin New + Best Selections
    • 鄭中基演唱會二零零六 (Ronald Cheng Live in Concert 2006) – Cantonese / Mandarin Live Album
  • 2008
    • 怪胎 (Freak) – Mandarin New + Best Selections

Filmography

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Film

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Year Title Role Notes
1997 A Chinese Ghost Story: The Tsui Hark Animation Siu Lan-fu voice only
2000 Twelve Nights Johnny
2001 Blue Moon Fai
Bullets of Love Ma
Dance of a Dream Yip Wai-shih
2002 Interactive Murders JASH / Lam Wan-san
My Wife Is 18 Bruce
Market's Romance Chicky Keung
2003 My Lucky Star Crab Duen / Guard Duen
Give Them a Chance Disco triad boss aka Give Me a Chance
Dragon Loaded 2003 Dragon
Golden Chicken 2 Mr. Chan
2004 Super Model Mandam Fung Yan-bing
Hidden Heroes Ho Yoiji
My Sweetie owner of Lo's office lift cameo
2005 Himalaya Singh Singh
Dragon Reloaded Dragon
2006 McDull, the Alumni marketing head / musical instruments sal
Undercover Hidden Dragon Fat Chai (Sunny Sun) / Wind To
Fatal Contact Captain Chan Shing
Mr. 3 Minutes Scott Chung
2007 It's a Wonderful Life Thunder God / Ray Ban also director and writer
Dancing Lion lion dancer
Mr. Cinema Zhou Chong
Ratatouille Remy (voice, HK version)
2008 La Lingerie Lucas
Legendary Assassin Uncle Zhi aka Wolf Fang
2009 All's Well, Ends Well 2009 Yu Bo
Kung Fu Cyborg Xiao Jiang aka Kungfu Cyborg: Metallic Attraction
2010 All's Well, Ends Well 2010 General Mak Bing-wing
Just Another Pandora's Box Qing Yise / Zhao Yun / Zhang Ziyi's transvestite
2011 All's Well, Ends Well 2011 Delivery Boy
Treasure Hunt
2012 All's Well, Ends Well 2012
Marry a Perfect Man
The Four
Vulgaria
McDull – Pork of Music
Love Is... Pyjamas
2013 Hotel Deluxe OK Pao
Princess and the Seven Kung Fu Masters
Special ID Captain Cheung
The Four II
2014 Hello Babies Scallop
Golden Chicken 3
Just Another Margin Shi Wen-Sheng
The Truth About Beauty
The Four III
Sifu vs Vampire Nicky
The Seventh Lie Bellhop
Grey Met Shrek
2015 Full Strike Ng Kau-cheung
Undercover Duet Dream Dragon
TBA Secret Treasure[12] also director
2016 House of Wolves Fung Yan-ping
2017 Two Wrongs Make a Right Ximen Ding
2018 Concerto of the Bully
Agent Mr Chan Hung Chow
2019 Atonement
Elisa's Day
2022 Chilli Laugh Story
2023 Over My Dead Body Bear Cheung
Time Still Turns the Pages Cheng Chi-hung
2024 Love Lies Arthur Fung

Television series

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2000 The Sky is the Limit
2001 Colourful Life Ching Chi-yung
2002 Slim Chances So Bing-man
2003 Virtues of Harmony II Chiu Choi guest star
2019 Haters Gonna Stay guest star
2020 Single Papa Lam Sai-wing Main Role

[13] [14]

MV Appearance (Actor)

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Year Title
2021 Anson Lo - "Megahit"

Awards and nominations

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Film & TV

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Year Award Category Nominated work Result
2001 TVB Anniversary Awards Favorite Partners Ronald Cheng, Cutie Mui Nominated
2002 Best Actor Slim Chances Nominated
Favorite Partners Ronald Cheng, Fennie Yuen Nominated
Ronald Cheng, Candy Lo Nominated
Louis Yuen, Ronald Cheng, Remus Choy Nominated
2004 23rd Hong Kong Film Awards Best Supporting Actor My Lucky Star Nominated
2006 25th Hong Kong Film Awards Best Original Film Song Dragon Reloaded Nominated
Best Host Beautiful Cooking Nominated
2008 27th Hong Kong Film Awards Best Supporting Actor Mr. Cinema Nominated
Best Original Film Song Nominated
2009 TVB Anniversary Awards Best Host Ronald Cheng, Edmond Leung, Alex Fong Lik-Sun Nominated
2012 49th Golden Horse Awards Best Supporting Actor Vulgaria Won
BQ Celebrity Score Awards Favorite Actor Nominated
Best Singer Nominated
2013 32nd Hong Kong Film Awards Best Supporting Actor Vulgaria Won
BQ Celebrity Score Awards Best Singer Nominated
Favorite Actor Nominated

Music

[edit]
Year Award Category Nominated work Result
1996 Jade Solid Gold Best Ten Music Awards Favorite New Singer Won
1997 Best Music Video Won
CMA Chinese Music Awards Top 20 Songs Won
Best New Singer Won
1998 Top 20 Songs Creating Romance Won
Never Say! Love You Won
Jade Solid Gold Best Ten Music Awards Favorite Group Song Jacky Cheung, Andy Hui, Ronald Cheng Won
1999 CMA Chinese Music Awards Top 20 Songs Won
2000 Won
2002 Jade Solid Gold Best Ten Music Awards Favorite Duet Song Ronald Cheng, Patrick Tang Won
2003 TVB8 Mandarin Music Awards Best Duet Song Ronald Cheng, Hu Yanbin Won
RTHK Top 10 Gold Songs Awards Leaping Singer Won
Jade Solid Gold Best Ten Music Award Favorite Singer-Songwriter Won
2004 China Original Music Chart Best Song Won
2005 RTHK Top 10 Gold Songs Awards Top 10 Songs Won
Jade Solid Gold Best Ten Music Awards Won
Gold Song Won
2006 China Original Music Chart Favorite KTV Won
Best Song Won
2010 CMA Chinese Music Awards Best Movie Actor Won

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Ronald Cheng (Chinese: 鄭中基; born 9 March 1972) is a singer, actor, and director renowned for his contributions to music and comedic cinema. As the only child of record label tycoon Norman Cheng Tung-hon, he grew up immersed in the industry, frequenting recording studios from a young age. After studying with a minor in music history at in , Cheng entered the entertainment scene as a backup singer and joined Jacky Cheung's team in 1995. Cheng launched his solo music career with the debut album In a Dilemma in 1996, releasing five studio albums and several EPs by 1999, earning him two Best New Artist awards for his versatile blend of pop and styles. After a hiatus, he staged a comeback with the 2005 album Before After, highlighted by the hit single "Rascal," which secured 11 awards across various ceremonies. Notable releases include Deep Love (1997) and later works like the theme song My Only One (2020) for the TV series Single Papa, which was awarded one of the Top 10 golden songs at the 2021 Chill Club music awards. Transitioning to film in the early 2000s, Cheng debuted in Twelve Nights (2000) but gained prominence with comedic roles in Dragon Loaded (2003) and My Lucky Star (2003), the latter earning him his first Best Supporting Actor nomination at the 23rd Hong Kong Film Awards. His breakthrough came with Vulgaria (2012), where he won Best Supporting Actor at both the 32nd Hong Kong Film Awards and the 49th Golden Horse Awards for his portrayal of a film producer. Cheng received his first Best Actor nomination for Concerto of the Bully (2018), in which he also composed the award-winning theme song "An Unheard Melody," securing Best Original Film Song at the 37th Hong Kong Film Awards. Recent films include Over My Dead Body (2023), a satire on Hong Kong's property market, and Atonement (2025), a Thailand-set action thriller where he co-directed and played an avenging father, marking a departure from his comedic roots. In his personal life, Cheng was secretly married to singer from 2006 to 2010. He wed model Sammie Yu in 2011, and the couple has a daughter born that year and a son born in 2015; Cheng has portrayed single fatherhood in projects like the 2021 series Single Papa. Throughout his career, he has balanced music and acting, establishing himself as a versatile figure in Hong Kong entertainment.

Early life

Birth and family background

Ronald Cheng was born on March 9, 1972, in , now part of the Special Administrative Region of . He was the only child of Norman Cheng Tung-hon, a prominent figure in the Asian who served as chairman and CEO of Music Asia until 2008. Growing up in a household deeply connected to the entertainment world, Cheng was frequently exposed to the music industry from a young age, often visiting his father's office where he observed recording sessions by icons such as and . This environment fostered an early familiarity with music production and the entertainment scene in and . Cheng attended St. Louis School in for his before studying at in the United States, with a minor in music history. Initially, he aspired to work in the music industry as a songwriter and producer, taking on various odd jobs at his father's company to gain experience, rather than pursuing a career.

Entry into entertainment industry

Ronald Cheng entered the entertainment industry in the mid-1990s through his family's deep ties to the music scene, where his father, Norman Cheng, served as regional president of Records in . Initially aspiring to roles behind the scenes, Cheng took on various odd jobs at his father's company, including providing backing vocals for prominent artists such as on the 1995 album A Sensitive World and . These early experiences allowed him to immerse himself in production environments while honing his skills as a budding songwriter and producer. In 1995, Cheng traveled to to study music under instructor Joel Ewing, further developing his compositional abilities; he had been writing songs since his mid-teens, though early efforts were lengthy and unpolished. Upon returning, his vocal talents caught the attention of producers during an internal demo session, leading to a with the label despite his original intent to remain off-stage. This signing represented a pivotal shift, transitioning him from support roles to a front-facing artist under the same company his father led. Prior to his personal debut, Cheng contributed to songwriting and production for other projects at , building credits through collaborative efforts in the label's bustling Asian operations. His initial breakthrough came via Mandarin-language recordings, which propelled his popularity in —where his debut album King in the Dark sold over 200,000 copies—before he achieved wider recognition in . This cross-strait exposure, influenced by his relocation for training and the label's regional focus, laid the groundwork for his performing career.

Music career

Debut and early success (1995–2000)

Ronald Cheng entered the music industry in 1996 with the release of his debut Mandarin album In a Dilemma (左右為難), issued by PolyGram's label, which featured emotional ballads and marked his initial foray into the scene. The album included standout tracks such as "Your Eyes Betray Your Heart" (你的眼睛背叛你的心), which resonated with listeners through its themes of love and betrayal, helping establish Cheng as a promising newcomer in the Mandarin market. Later that year, he followed up with a second Mandarin release, Don't Love Me (別愛我), further solidifying his presence in , where his heartfelt vocals and relatable lyrics quickly gained traction among young audiences. In 1997, Cheng expanded into the Cantonese market with Deep Love (情深), his first Cantopop album, which showcased his versatility and included self-penned tracks that highlighted his background as an aspiring songwriter. This period saw additional releases like Don't Say! Love You (絕口不提!愛你) and Abstain from Love (戒情人), both under Philips, blending pop sensibilities with personal compositions that contributed to his growing fanbase in Hong Kong. His early success was affirmed by winning the Favorite New Singer award at the 1996 Jade Solid Gold Best Ten Music Awards, recognizing his rapid rise following the debut. Cheng also began performing live on popular TV music programs, such as Jade Solid Gold, where his energetic stage presence helped build his reputation. By 1998 and 1999, Cheng's output continued with albums like (敵人) and I Can Really (我真的可以), the latter marking his transition to after PolyGram's acquisition, allowing him to target both Mandarin and audiences more broadly. These releases capitalized on hits in both languages, with Cheng often writing or co-writing songs for his projects, reflecting his original intent to work behind the scenes in music production. His popularity surged particularly in , where Mandarin tracks from his early albums achieved strong sales and radio play, positioning him as a cross-strait star before fully establishing in .

Career challenges and resurgence (2001–2005)

In February 2000, Ronald Cheng encountered a major professional setback during an "air rage" incident on an EVA Air flight from Los Angeles to Taipei. Intoxicated after consuming alcohol and taking a sleeping pill, Cheng became disruptive, smoking in the lavatory, singing loudly, and physically assaulting a flight attendant by pulling her to the floor, which escalated into a confrontation involving the pilot and co-pilot. He was restrained, handcuffed, and arrested by the FBI upon the plane's emergency landing in Anchorage, Alaska, where he faced charges of assault and interfering with flight crew members, potentially carrying up to 20 years in prison and a US$250,000 fine. Although federal charges were eventually dropped, Cheng was fined approximately HK$15,000 by an Alaska court and vowed to quit drinking permanently. The scandal severely damaged his public image, leading to significant financial losses from compensation payments for damages and the emergency landing, which he covered using earnings from prior albums. The incident prompted , his label since 1999, to terminate his contract in 2002, resulting in a career hiatus in music from 2000 to 2003 during which Cheng focused on roles to sustain his visibility. Although he attempted a partial return to in 2003, widespread media coverage of the scandal had tarnished his reputation, limiting opportunities and fan support in and . This period marked a low point, contrasting his earlier successes in the late , as the negative publicity overshadowed his prior chart-topping releases. Cheng staged a resurgence in 2005 with the release of his Cantonese album Before After under Gold Label Entertainment (part of the Emperor Entertainment Group), which sold strongly and revitalized his music career. The lead single "無賴" (Rascal), a self-reflective track drawing from his personal struggles, became a massive hit, topping charts in Hong Kong and earning the Most Popular Song award at TVB's Jade Solid Gold, along with multiple Top 10 accolades at other ceremonies. This success renewed his popularity across Hong Kong and Taiwan, restoring his image from a troubled figure to a relatable artist and boosting concert attendance, including sold-out shows at the Hong Kong Coliseum. Concurrently, his acting profile rose with comedic roles, further aiding his overall recovery in the entertainment industry.

Later releases and performances (2006–present)

Following the momentum from his 2005 hit single, Ronald Cheng sustained his music career with the release of the 正宗K ( Cheng) in 2006, blending new tracks with popular selections in both and Mandarin to showcase his versatile vocal style. That same year, he performed a major live at the on July 21 and 22, which was later captured in the live album 鄭中基2006演唱會 (Ronald Cheng Live in Concert 2006), featuring energetic renditions of hits like "八爪魚" () and audience favorites that highlighted his engaging stage presence. Post-2006, Cheng focused on selective singles and collaborations, including contributions to various projects that emphasized his adaptability in blending humor-infused lyrics with contemporary pop elements. Re-releases of earlier albums, such as Enemy and Quit Falling in Love in 2008, helped maintain his catalog's availability. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted innovative adaptations in Cheng's performances, culminating in Hong Kong's first drive-in concert, Drive In Ultra – WEE are Ronald Cheng, held on April 23, 24, and 25, 2021, at the Central Harbourfront Event Space, where audiences enjoyed his set from their vehicles in a safe, outdoor format. Accompanying this period, he released the single "My Only One" on October 23, 2020, a heartfelt ballad that earned recognition as one of the top songs of the year at ViuTV's Chill Club awards in April 2021. In 2021, Cheng dropped the album 玩咗先至瞓 (Let's Play Before Sleep), featuring 12 tracks with playful, relatable narratives, and the single "我們" (Us), further demonstrating his evolution toward lighthearted, versatile songwriting. Cheng's live activities rebounded with the in 2023, including stops at The Londoner Arena in Macao on July 29 and 30, where he performed a mix of classic hits and newer material to enthusiastic crowds, and North American dates such as on October 28 and on October 31. This tour underscored his enduring appeal through dynamic staging and fan interaction, followed by shows at the in February 2024. In 2024, he continued with the single "答案" (The Answer), a reflective piece released on May 15. As of November 2025, Cheng remains active in selective performances and recordings, including the song "大錯" for the 2025 film A Long (阿龍) soundtrack and tracks on the compilation Retro Romantic Love Songs (復古浪漫情歌).

Acting career

Early film and TV roles (1997–2005)

Ronald Cheng made his acting debut in 1997 with a voice role as Siu Lan-fu in the animated film A Chinese Ghost Story: The Tsui Hark Animation, marking his initial entry into the entertainment industry beyond music. His early film roles were predominantly supporting or minor parts in Hong Kong productions, where he began honing his on-screen presence. By the early 2000s, Cheng appeared in films such as Twelve Nights (2000), playing Johnny opposite Cecilia Cheung and Eason Chan, and Blue Moon (2001), portraying Fai in a story centered on insurance scams and romance. These roles often placed him in comedic or quirky supporting capacities, allowing him to experiment with exaggerated expressions and timing that would later define his style. Throughout the late and early , Cheng supplemented his film work with television appearances, primarily guest spots on variety programs that showcased his emerging comedic talents. He participated in shows like Super Trio Series 4: The Super Trio Mega Show (1999), contributing to skits and musical segments, and hosted segments on The Kitchen of a Beauty and Fancy Ideas. These TV gigs, often lighthearted and improvisational, helped build his reputation as a versatile entertainer during a period when his music career faced setbacks following the 2000 "air rage incident," prompting a pivot toward acting opportunities. As his music releases slowed from 2001 to 2003, Cheng's acting output increased, leading to over a dozen film credits by 2005 and solidifying his comedic niche. Collaborations with director Vincent Kok proved fruitful, as seen in My Lucky Star (2003), where Cheng's portrayal of the dual roles Crab Duen and Guard Duen earned him a Hong Kong Film Award nomination for Best . That same year, he took a lead role as the spoiled rich kid Dragon in Dragon Loaded 2003, a surprise box-office success that highlighted his abilities and was praised for reviving interest in local comedies. Other notable entries included Super Model (2004), in which he played the eccentric male model Mandam Fung Yan-bing, further emphasizing his flair for drag and . By 2005, with films like Himalaya Singh and Dragon Reloaded, Cheng had transitioned from peripheral roles to more prominent comedic fixtures, laying the groundwork for his later breakthroughs.

Breakthrough and recent projects (2006–present)

Cheng's acting career gained significant momentum in the late . By , Cheng achieved a major breakthrough with his portrayal of the eccentric triad boss Brother in the satirical comedy , directed by Pang Ho-cheung. His over-the-top, crude performance earned widespread acclaim for blending physical comedy with sharp social commentary on the film industry, marking a turning point that elevated him to leading comedic status. For this role, Cheng won the Best Supporting Actor award at both the 32nd Hong Kong Film Awards and the 49th Golden Horse Awards, recognizing his transformative contribution to the genre. That same year, Cheng appeared in the high-stakes police thriller , playing a key supporting role in the ensemble cast that depicted internal conflicts within Hong Kong's security bureau, contributing to the film's status as the territory's highest-grossing production of 2012. His versatility extended beyond , as seen in subsequent projects that balanced humor with . In 2018, Cheng starred in Concerto of the Bully, a music-themed where he played the gruff thug Yung opposite Cherry Ngan's aspiring songwriter; the film highlighted his musical background through comedic sequences involving original songs and performances, bridging his singing career with acting in a narrative about redemption through melody. This crossover underscored Cheng's ability to infuse roles with his sensibilities, often incorporating lighthearted, satirical tunes reminiscent of his earlier hit comedic tracks. Transitioning to television, Cheng took on the lead role of single father in the 2020 family drama series Single Papa, a 20-episode ViuTV production that explored themes of loss, parenting, and romance, earning praise for his nuanced portrayal of emotional vulnerability beneath his trademark humor. Post-2020, Cheng maintained a steady output of projects amid industry challenges, including the 2021 indie drama Elisa's Day as Sergeant Fai, a cop navigating personal and professional turmoil. In 2022, he featured in the Chilli Laugh Story as Alan, delivering ensemble sketches that revisited Hong Kong's comedic traditions. The following year brought roles in the family-oriented mystery Over My Dead Body as the protective Bear and the poignant drama Time Still Turns the Pages as Cheng Chi-Hung, a teacher grappling with trauma in a story of healing and generational bonds. Cheng's recent work culminated in the 2024 romance Love Lies, where he played Arthur Fung in a tale of modern loneliness and digital connections, co-starring with Sandra Ng and Stephy Tang under director Ho Miu-ki's debut. Looking ahead, in 2025, he starred and co-directed the action-thriller Atonement as Lung, a father seeking vengeance after his daughter's kidnapping, blending high-tension drama with his established comedic edge in a Thailand-set narrative. These projects reflect Cheng's enduring prominence as a multifaceted performer, with selective engagements that prioritize quality over volume, including occasional musical elements in comedic contexts to honor his origins as a singer-songwriter.

Personal life

Marriages and divorces

Ronald Cheng first married actress and singer in a private ceremony on January 31, 2006, in , , after meeting on the set of the 2004 film Hidden Heroes and beginning a relationship shortly thereafter. The marriage remained secret until March 27, 2010, when the couple publicly announced their separation at a following reports of their union in media. They attributed the to a growing mutual understanding that revealed irreconcilable differences in compatibility, emphasizing that no third party was involved in the decision. The was finalized in May 2010 after four years of marriage. In 2011, Cheng married former television news anchor Sammie Yu in , following her pregnancy announcement earlier that year. The couple, who share two children, separated after 13 years together, with proceedings initiated in early 2025. They appeared separately at on April 15, 2025, amid reports of ongoing legal discussions over asset division and support arrangements. The was finalized in 2025. During proceedings, Cheng denied media claims that he had proposed only HKD 8,000 (approximately RM4,000) monthly for and , stating the reported figure was inaccurate.

Children and family matters

Ronald Cheng and his second wife, Sammie Yu, welcomed their first child, Emma Cheng, in July 2011, shortly before their marriage later that month. Their son, Evan Cheng, was born in 2015. Cheng has occasionally shared public insights into his parenting, emphasizing his commitment to his children's well-being. In 2020, he revealed an attempt to quit drinking after years of struggles, motivated by his desire to be a better father to Emma. However, in 2024, he disclosed ongoing issues with and depression, leading to a temporary career hiatus for treatment. He has also appeared with his daughter during performances, offering rare glimpses into their bond. Pre-divorce, Yu occasionally posted family moments on , such as birthday celebrations with the children, highlighting a relatively private but affectionate family life. The couple's divorce in 2025 centered on family arrangements, including custody and financial support for their children. Cheng expressed his intent to seek custody of both Emma, now 14, and , now 10. Disputes arose over , with reports indicating Cheng offered HK$8,000 monthly , a figure Yu deemed insufficient to cover the children's needs amid their high-cost lifestyle. Cheng publicly denied rumors of minimal support payments, affirming his dedication to providing adequately for his family during the settlement process. As the son of Norman Cheng, a prominent figure in Hong Kong's who served as CEO of PolyGram's division and later chairperson of , Ronald Cheng's children are part of a family legacy in entertainment. This background has shaped their upbringing in an environment connected to the business, with the grandfather's influence extending to family properties and industry ties that support the household.

Public incidents

In February 2000, Ronald Cheng was involved in a highly publicized incident on an flight from to , where he became disruptive after consuming alcohol, including whisky and champagne, and spent extended time in the lavatory. The plane made an in , leading to Cheng's arrest by the FBI on charges of assaulting a and interfering with the flight crew. He was detained briefly at the Cook Inlet Pre-Trial Facility before being released on , and in , he received a light sentence including a fine of approximately HKD 15,000, after which he publicly apologized and vowed to abstain from alcohol permanently. The incident severely tarnished Cheng's personal reputation, portraying him as irresponsible and fueling tabloid scrutiny that lingered for years, though he later reflected on the financial repercussions, noting it took significant time to settle the damages owed to the . No other major verified personal scandals emerged in the , with media attention largely shifting to his relationships rather than independent controversies. In August 2024, Cheng publicly announced his struggles with depression and , linked to past incidents like the 2000 , and stated he would take a temporary break from work to seek treatment at a rehabilitation center in the , accompanied by his wife. In 2025, Cheng faced intense media invasion of during his proceedings from Sammie Yu, after 13 years of marriage, as unverified rumors proliferated about battles, financial disputes, and allegedly low offers of HKD 8,000 monthly, which he publicly denied in a statement to protect his family. The frenzy, amplified by tabloids and online speculation, highlighted ongoing challenges to his personal boundaries, prompting Cheng to emphasize the emotional toll on his children and request media restraint. Over time, these incidents contributed to a mixed personal legacy for Cheng, where early from the 2000 event contrasted with his eventual professional resurgence, allowing him to rebuild through efforts and focus despite recurrent privacy breaches. The briefly interrupted his career momentum, but its personal impact underscored his growth in handling adversity.

Works

Studio Albums

Ronald Cheng debuted with his first studio album In a Dilemma (左右為難), released in 1996 by in and Mandarin. His second album Don't Love Me (別愛我) followed later that year, also under , featuring tracks. In 1997, he released Deep Love (情深), a album on . That same year, Don't Say! Love You (絕口不提!愛你) came out as a Mandarin album via . Another 1997 release was Abstain from Love (戒情人), a effort on . In 1998, Enemy (敵人) was issued by in . The 1999 album I Really Can (我真的可以) marked his move to Universal Music, in . After a career hiatus, Cheng returned in 2003 with Please Help Me (唔該救救我), a album on Universal. In 2004, Zheng Zong K (正宗K), blending new and Mandarin tracks with selections, was released by Universal. His final studio album to date, Cheng 4, appeared in 2008 under in . In 2021, Cheng released Let's Play Before Sleep (玩咗先至瞓), a studio album via an independent label.

Singles and EPs

Cheng's notable EPs include The One I Love Most Is Not You (最愛的人不是你), a 1997 Mandarin release on . In 2004, he issued the single "Have Guts" (有種), a track tied to the film , under Universal. Another 2004 single was "82 and 88" (八二十八八十八) in , also on Universal. The 2005 single "Rogue" (無賴), in , was released by Universal and became one of his signature hits. In 2020, "My Only One" emerged as a single, later included in his 2021 , distributed digitally. The 2021 single "Us" (我們), in , followed via digital platforms. In 2024, he released the digital single "The Answer" (答案). Also in 2024, he featured on the single "A Gang" (一夥) with Paul Wong, LMF, Joey Tang, and . In 2025, "Too Much" (大過), a single from the (阿龍) soundtrack, was released digitally.

Live Albums and Compilations

Cheng's primary live album is Ronald Cheng Live in 2006 (鄭中基演唱會二零零六), a 2006 and Mandarin release capturing his performances, issued by Universal. Compilations include Time, People, Place New + Selections (時間 人物 地點 新曲+精選), a 1998 Mandarin and mix on . In 2001, Promise Tree was released as a two-disc and Mandarin compilation by Polydor. The 2015 Gold Typhoon Best Sellers Series - Ronald Cheng compiled his hits in under . A 2024 compilation, Ronald Cheng Warm-up Selection (鄭中基演唱會熱身精選), features tracks in preparation for live shows, released digitally.

Karaoke Editions

Karaoke versions of Cheng's works include Zheng Zong K (正宗K), a 2004 Cantonese and Mandarin instrumental edition tied to his album, on Universal. In 2006, Ronald Cheng Karaoke Hits New Selections (鄭中基正宗K 新曲精選) offered Cantonese karaoke tracks via Universal. A 2014 compilation, Ronald Cheng Karaoke Hits, provided instrumental Cantonese versions of popular songs, distributed by .

Filmography

Ronald Cheng has appeared in over 50 films throughout his career, beginning with voice work in and progressing to lead and supporting roles in a variety of genres, including , action, and drama. His performances often highlight his comedic timing, as seen in collaborations with directors like and co-stars such as and . He has also ventured into for dubs and animated features, and holds directorial credits for two films. The following table lists his film credits chronologically, focusing on feature films with role types where specified.
YearTitleRoleNotes
1997A Chinese Ghost Story: The AnimationVoice roleVoice, supporting
2000Twelve NightsUnspecifiedSupporting
2001Blue MoonUnspecifiedSupporting
2001Bullets of LoveUnspecifiedSupporting
2001Dance of a DreamUnspecifiedSupporting
2002Interactive MurdersUnspecifiedSupporting
2002My Wife Is 18UnspecifiedSupporting
2002Marry a Rich ManUnspecifiedSupporting
2003My Lucky StarCrab Duen / Guard DuenSupporting
2003Give Them a ChanceDisco triad bossSupporting
2003Dragon Loaded 2003DragonLead
2003Golden Chicken 2Mr. ChanSupporting
2004Super ModelMandam Fung Yan-bingLead
2004Hidden HeroesUnspecifiedSupporting
2004My SweetieUnspecifiedCameo, supporting
2005Himalaya SinghUnspecifiedSupporting
2005Dragon ReloadedLung WaiLead
2006McDull, the AlumniUnspecifiedSupporting
2006Undercover Hidden DragonUnspecifiedSupporting
2006Fatal ContactCaptainSupporting
2006Mr. 3 MinutesChung Sai-kitSupporting
2007It's a Wonderful LifeNickLead, also director and writer
2007Dancing LionUnspecifiedSupporting
2007Mr. CinemaUnspecifiedSupporting
2007RatatouilleRemyVoice (Remy), Cantonese dub, lead
2008La LingerieLucasSupporting
2008Legendary AssassinUnspecifiedSupporting
2009All's Well, Ends Well 2009UnspecifiedSupporting
2009Kungfu Cyborg: Metallic AttractionUnspecifiedSupporting
2010All's Well, Ends Well 2010UnspecifiedSupporting
2010Just Another Pandora's BoxUnspecifiedSupporting
2011All's Well, Ends Well 2011UnspecifiedSupporting
2011Treasure HuntUnspecifiedSupporting
2012All's Well, Ends Well 2012UnspecifiedSupporting
2012Marrying Mr. PerfectUnspecifiedSupporting
2012VulgariaBrother TyrannosaurusSupporting, notable co-stars: Chapman To, Dada Chan
2012The FourUnspecifiedSupporting
2012McDull: Pork of MusicVoice roleVoice, supporting
2012Love Is... PyjamasUnspecifiedSupporting
2013Hotel DeluxeUnspecifiedSupporting
2013Princess and Seven Kung Fu MastersUnspecifiedSupporting
2013Special IDCaptain Cheung King-kwanSupporting
2013The Four IIUnspecifiedSupporting
2014Hello BabiesUnspecifiedSupporting
2014Golden ChickensssUnspecifiedSupporting
2014Just Another MarginUnspecifiedSupporting
2014The Truth About BeautyUnspecifiedSupporting
2014The Four 3UnspecifiedSupporting
2014Sifu vs. VampireUnspecifiedSupporting
2014The Seventh LieUnspecifiedSupporting
2014From Vegas to Macau IIUnspecifiedSupporting
2015Full StrikeUnspecifiedSupporting
2015Undercover DuetUnspecifiedSupporting
2016House of WolvesUnspecifiedSupporting
2017Two Wrongs Make a RightXimenSupporting
2018Concerto of the BullyYungLead
2018Agent Mr. ChanUnspecifiedSupporting
2021Elisa's DaySergeant FaiSupporting
2022Chilli Laugh StoryAlanSupporting
2023Over My Dead BodyBearLead
2023Time Still Turns the PagesCheng Chi-HungSupporting
2024Love LiesArthur FungLead
2025AtonementWong LungLead, director

Television appearances

Ronald Cheng's television career includes a mix of supporting and leading roles in dramas, primarily with and ViuTV, spanning from the early 2000s to the 2020s. He often portrayed comedic characters, drawing on his background as a singer and , and has made numerous guest appearances in variety and game shows. In addition to scripted series, Cheng has appeared as an actor in music videos, contributing to his visibility in culture. His notable television series roles include:
  • The Sky Is the Limit (2000, TVB): Played Yu Siu Yu in a supporting role across 20 episodes.
  • Zhe Shan Tan Hua (also known as Folding Fan and Seeing Flower, 2002, Chinese co-production): Portrayed the lead character Lin Jiu Yue in this 20-episode ancient comedy drama.
  • Colourful Life (2001, TVB): Appeared as Ching Chi-yung in a supporting role over 20 episodes, marking one of his early comedic TV performances.
  • Slim Chances (2002, TVB): Took on the main role of So Bing-man (also called "So Man") in 25 episodes, showcasing his ability in lead comedic parts.
  • Virtues of Harmony II (2003–2004, TVB): Guest-starred as Chiu Choi in multiple episodes of this long-running sitcom.
  • Haters Gonna Stay (2019, ViuTV): Made a guest appearance in this family comedy-drama series.
  • Single Papa (2020, ViuTV): Starred as the lead character Lam Sai-wing (also known as Ah Wing) in all 20 episodes, playing a single father navigating family challenges.
Cheng has also been a frequent guest on Hong Kong variety and game shows, particularly in the 2000s and 2020s, often participating in comedic segments or as a host. Examples include hosting Beautiful Cooking (2006, TVB, episodes 17–18 as contestant and main host in season 2, 2009) and guest spots on Super Trio Series (1999–2004, TVB, multiple episodes). More recent appearances feature him as a guest on The Popcorn Show (2022 and season 3, 2024, TVB, episode 25 each), Be on Game Season 3 (2023, VOO, episode 1), Youngster Show Time (2021, TVB, episode 102), and Chill Club (2019, TVB, episode 95). In music videos, Cheng made a notable cameo appearance as a dancing guest star in Anson Lo's "Megahit" (2021, Mirror member from the group Mirror), where he wore a motorcycle helmet and performed alongside the singer. No additional major TV series roles for Cheng have been reported between 2021 and 2025, with his focus shifting toward film and variety guest spots.

Awards and nominations

Music awards

Ronald Cheng's music career began with recognition as a new talent in , when he won an award at the Metro Radio Hits Music Awards. He also earned bronze in the Best New Prospect category at the Top 10 Gold Songs Awards that year. Additionally, Cheng won Favorite New Singer at the Jade Solid Gold Best Ten Music Awards and was nominated for Best New Artist at several other music ceremonies, marking his early breakthrough in the scene. In 2005, Cheng's single "無賴" (Rascal) achieved significant acclaim, winning the Gold Song Gold Award (Song of the Year) at the Jade Solid Gold Best Ten Music Awards Presentation, where it was voted among the top songs of the year across multiple ceremonies. Cheng's later work continued to garner honors, with his 2021 single "MY ONLY ONE" receiving the Top Ten Song of the Year award at the Chill Club Awards Presentation organized by ViuTV. This accolade highlighted the song's popularity as the theme for the television drama Warm Daddy.

Film and television awards

Ronald Cheng has received recognition for his comedic and supporting roles in cinema, earning two major acting awards in 2012 for his performance in . His breakthrough accolade came at the 49th Golden Horse Film Awards, where he won for portraying the eccentric Ju Nai-quan, a role that showcased his timing and in the satirical directed by Pang Ho-cheung. This win was followed by another honor at the 32nd Hong Kong Film Awards in 2013, solidifying his reputation as a versatile capable of elevating ensemble comedies. Throughout his career, Cheng has accumulated several at prestigious awards ceremonies, reflecting his consistent contributions to film and television. In 2004, he received a Best Supporting Actor at the Hong Kong Film Awards for his role in My Lucky Star, marking an early acknowledgment of his comedic potential. In 2018, he earned his first at the Hong Kong Film Awards for Concerto of the Bully, where he played the lead in a schoolyard drama infused with humor, and won Best Original Film Song for the theme "An Unheard Melody," which he composed. These nods, along with others at the Golden Horse Awards, highlight his range beyond , though he has yet to secure additional wins in leading categories. In television, Cheng's nominations are fewer but notable for his hosting and acting work. At the 2006 TVB Awards Presentation, he was nominated for Best Presenter alongside co-hosts for a , demonstrating his charisma in live formats. For his lead role as in the 2020 ViuTV series Single Papa, Cheng received a nomination for Favorite On-Screen Partners at the , paired with co-star Cutie Mui, though the series aired on a rival network. No major acting wins have been reported for his TV roles up to 2025.
YearAward CeremonyCategoryWorkResult
2004Hong Kong Film AwardsBest Supporting ActorMy Lucky StarNominated
2006Best Presenter (with , Alex Fong)Nominated
2012Golden Horse Film Awards (49th)Best Supporting ActorWon
2013Hong Kong Film Awards (32nd)Best Supporting ActorWon
2018Hong Kong Film AwardsBest ActorConcerto of the BullyNominated
2018Hong Kong Film AwardsBest Original Film SongConcerto of the Bully ("An Unheard Melody")Won
2020Favorite On-Screen PartnersSingle Papa (with Cutie Mui)Nominated (Note: Used for verification, but primary from aggregated sources)
Cheng's awards tally includes these key honors, with over five acting nominations across major and regional ceremonies, emphasizing his impact in comedic supporting roles rather than exhaustive leads. No significant film or television awards were reported for projects like the 2024 cameo in Love Lies through 2025.

References

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