“OG Culinary KOL” Martin Yan Reunites With Liza Wang in Throwback-Worthy Photo, Sparking Nostalgia

(Hong Kong, 29th) Veteran Hong Kong actress Liza Wang recently shared a photo on social media with iconic cooking show host and celebrity chef Martin Yan, sparking lively discussion online and triggering a wave of nostalgia among viewers.

In the photo, Wang and Yan—wearing his signature chef’s uniform—look cheerful and energetic, smiling at the camera and giving a thumbs-up. Wang appears elegant in a pearl necklace, while 77-year-old Yan looks as vibrant as ever, with his trademark charisma fully intact.

Wang revealed in her post that she ran into Yan in Malaysia, calling him the “first-generation culinary KOL (key opinion leader).” She also quoted his legendary catchphrase, “If Yan can cook, so can you!”—a line that instantly transported many fans back to their childhood TV memories.

Often hailed as one of the world’s best-known Chinese celebrity chefs, Yan rose to international fame in the 1970s and 1980s with Yan Can Cook. His witty hosting style, impressive knife skills, and memorable slogan helped the show reach audiences in more than 70 countries. It was also aired in Hong Kong, introducing the joy and techniques of Chinese cooking to viewers around the world—earning him a reputation as an “OG culinary influencer.”

The “once-in-a-generation” reunion photo delighted fans and reminded many of the days when they sat in front of the TV, learning to cook along with Martin Yan.