“We were never in a romantic relationship” — Elaine Jin reveals she was once Susan Jung’s “backup,” sparking discussion

(Hong Kong, March 28) Veteran actress Elaine Jin, a four-time Hong Kong Film Award winner for Best Supporting Actress, has been closely accompanied for over two decades by celebrity chef and host Susan Jung. Their long-standing relationship has often been perceived by the public as a romantic partnership.

However, in a recent interview with host Fong Kin-yee, Jin made a striking revelation—stating candidly that when they first got together, she had “treated her as a backup,” and firmly clarified that their relationship is “definitely not romantic.”

Reflecting on the past, Jin shared that after her second divorce, she returned to Hong Kong from the UK facing financial difficulties and uncertainty. During a mahjong gathering, Jung learned of her situation and offered to support her, even proposing to provide her with stability and a home.

Jin admitted that at the time, she accepted the arrangement largely out of practical needs rather than emotional connection. When asked directly whether she saw Jung as a “backup,” she answered without hesitation: “Absolutely.”

Despite living together for many years, Jin emphasized her discomfort with being labeled as homosexual, explaining that her choices were not driven by a shift in orientation, but rather by complex life circumstances.

Nonetheless, their bond has endured far longer than her previous marriages combined. She described their relationship as one between two highly independent individuals who share a home while maintaining complete personal freedom.

During Jin’s health battles—her uterine cancer diagnosis in 2019 and breast cancer in 2021—Jung remained by her side, offering unwavering care and support. Jung has even expressed her desire to secure enough financial resources to ensure Jin’s well-being in the future.

Through this journey, Jin said she came to truly understand what it means to be cared for and loved. While she does not see marriage as part of their future, she acknowledged that their connection exists on a deeper, emotional level.

She also noted that while Jung may appear sharp-tongued in public, she is, in reality, deeply kind and attentive.