Buzz
After 36 years, 'Buddha's Journey' Tây Du Ký 1986 starring Chu Long Quảng at the age of octogenarian still rakes in substantial earnings by reprising his role in commercial events.
Tây Du Ký 1986 directed by Dương Khiết was a Chinese television blockbuster that dominated the Asian small screen for many years. Alongside renowned main cast members such as Lục Tiểu Linh Đồng, Từ Thiếu Hoa, Mã Đức Hoa, Trì Trọng Thụy… supporting actors also left a profound mark on the audience. One such character was the Buddha's Disciple portrayed by veteran actor Chu Long Quảng.
Not only did he create the most successful rendition of Buddha's Disciple on screen, but in real life, the actor is still regarded as the 'Living Buddha' for his appearance and compassionate nature, akin to the Buddha.
Born to embody iconic roles
Throughout history, there have been numerous actors portraying the Buddha's Disciple in Chinese cinema; however, perhaps the portrayal by actor Chu Long Quảng in Tây Du Ký 1986 is the most authentic and spiritually charged. From facial expressions, gaze, gestures to voice, everything demonstrated by this seasoned actor has crafted an iconic Buddha's Disciple, closely resembling what audiences envision of the Buddha.
For over 30 years since the release of 'Journey to the West 1986', actor Chu Long Quang continues to be revered by many when encountered in real life. Some even hang pictures of him from the film in their homes, viewing him as a true Buddha figure. Reflecting on this iconic role, the actor revealed that becoming the 'Buddha Patriarch' was quite serendipitous.
According to Sohu, prior to casting him, director Yang Xie had considered 16 other actors but found none suitable. It was only upon meeting Chu Long Quang that she believed she had found the right choice. Initially hesitant due to fears of playing a monster-like character, the actor later accepted the role after being promised by the female director that he would be given the part of a celestial being. Upon seeing the actor in costume, director Yang Xie's eyes lit up as she exclaimed, 'The Buddha Patriarch has arrived!'.
Though initially anxious as he had never portrayed such a character before, actor Chu Long Quang endeavored to perform exceptionally well after receiving encouragement from the director and film crew. In order to successfully portray the character, he extensively studied the demeanor of the character at a temple.
When the film aired, the majority of the audience believed that Chu Long Quang seemed to have been born for this role. At that time, his performance made people think that Chu Long Quang was the Buddha, and the Buddha was Chu Long Quang. According to Sina, some sculpture companies even used his character's image to carve statues of the Buddha Patriarch for worship in temples.
Following this iconic role, Chu Long Quang participated in several other film projects before retiring at the age of 60. Prior to this, in addition to being a renowned actor, he also lectured at the Beijing Film Academy.
Still 'running the show' at over 80 years old, living happily with his small family
Despite turning 83 this year, the veteran actor remains sharp and healthy. Recently, a delightful image of Chu Long Quang chatting with friends was shared on social media, delighting Chinese netizens. At eighty-three, Chu Long Quang's appearance bears the marks of time - his hair has turned silver, his figure has become stout, and his back slightly stooped. However, the charisma of the once revered 'Buddha Master' remains unchanged.
Previously, in 2021, a video of actor Chu Quang Long portraying Buddha Master Nhu Lai at a commercial event also attracted audience attention. According to Sohu, despite being retired, veteran actor Chu Long Quang still frequently participates in commercial activities. Thanks to this role, he continues to earn money even after 36 years of broadcasting the 'Journey to the West'.
Many express concern for the actor's health, but Chu Long Quang shares that at his age, acting opportunities are scarce. Nonetheless, he will continue to play the role of Buddha Nhu Lai at commercial performances to fulfill his passion for the craft and to relive some of the old memories for the cherished audience.
Aside from his acting career, Chu Long Quang is also admired for his happy family and noble heart. Marrying his wife, Ngô Huệ Phương, at the age of 35, his family life is now blissful with three beautiful daughters. During leisure time, the actor often gathers with friends in the artistic community for deep conversations or strolls the streets for sightseeing.
Furthermore, Chu Long Quang is a frequent philanthropist, wholeheartedly assisting the needy and finding simple joy in his old age. His appearance and noble deeds lead many to believe that he is indeed a true Buddha figure.
