Kara Hui Ying-hung Stitches 89 Wounds on Her Face, Over 100 Injuries in Total — The “Queen of Action” Announces Retirement

Award-winning Hong Kong actress Kara Hui, widely regarded as the industry’s “first lady of action cinema,” recently revealed that she will no longer take on action roles. Speaking candidly at a public event, she explained her decision: “I don’t want to damage my own legacy.”

Now 66, Hui entered the film industry at the age of 17 and rose to prominence through action films, establishing a distinctive and influential presence in Hong Kong cinema.

Her breakthrough came in 1979 with the film Dirty Ho, where she played the lead role of Cui Hong. The production relied heavily on real combat and physical stunts with minimal protection, which contributed to her instant recognition and the start of her career as an action star.

Hui acknowledged the harsh conditions of early filmmaking, where injuries were routine. She has previously revealed that she has sustained over a hundred injuries throughout her career, including 89 stitches to her face. Even in recent years, she continued performing demanding scenes—during the filming of Count to Three, she suffered six bone fractures within two months due to high-risk stunt work.

She is currently involved in the production of Twilight of the Warriors sequel, directed by Soi Cheang. The director revealed that a dedicated medical team has been assigned on set, underscoring the intensity of the shoot.

Looking ahead, Hui remains firm in her decision. Even if invited by longtime collaborators, she will decline action roles. She explained that as she ages, her physical capabilities have naturally declined, and forcing herself into such roles could compromise both the quality of her work and her professional reputation. She has therefore chosen to conclude her action career at its peak, preserving her legacy.