Buzz
In the movie, Ly Bao Dien and Wang Cuong play General Liu Gu and Hua Than, two officials constantly opposing each other. Surprisingly, their real lives also exhibit many opposite traits.
General Liu Gu is a film deeply ingrained in the childhood memories of many 80s and 90s viewers. The story revolves around the character Liu Dung, who bears a hunchback but possesses a straight and wise heart.
Upon entering government service, Liu Dung is a righteous official, always in conflict with the cunning Hua Than. The clashes between these two characters are depicted in the film as both intense and intellectually stimulating, yet also humorous and captivating, keeping viewers glued to the screen.
In the film, the role of Liu Dung is played by artist A, while Hua Than is portrayed by artist B. Interestingly, just like in the movie where Ly Bao Dien and Wang Cuong play two opposing officials, their real lives also showcase many contrasting aspects.
'General Liu Gu' by Ly Bao Dien
Luu Gu, the cunning general from Lý Bảo Điền's works, has captured the hearts of audiences. With his witty and authentic acting, he continues to leave a lasting impression even after more than 20 years since the show aired.
In real life, Lý Bảo Điền embodies simplicity, honesty, refusing to bend and always wholeheartedly serving others, much like his character Luu Gu on television. This is why he is cherished and respected by friends, colleagues, and fans alike. A veteran artist, he serves as a shining example for young stars to follow.
Following the success of the series Luu Gu's Strategies, Lý Bảo Điền received numerous offers for similar roles in film and television. However, he adamantly declined while his co-star Vương Cương continued to excel as Hòa Thân.
Explaining his refusal, Lý Bảo Điền once said that conforming to a stereotype or deliberately confining oneself to a character would bore the audience. He also candidly shared: 'Sometimes, collaboration becomes untenable due to differences in personality and approach. It's not about right or wrong, just diverging paths.'
Remarkably, throughout his career, Lý Bảo Điền has never appeared in advertisements, despite the lucrative offers he could have received.
He explained: 'If I were to do commercials, viewers might confuse my on-screen persona with that of the advertisements. I've never used those products, nor do I fully understand their efficacy, so I can't deceive the trusting and adoring audience. I must live without shame according to my conscience.'
Lý Bảo Điền's pure integrity and unique professional principles have kept him from amassing wealth like Vương Cương or many of his contemporaries. Yet, he leads a peaceful life, leisurely with his wife and grandchildren. It is known that Lý Bảo Điền and his wife have two children, including their son Lý Úc who follows his father's footsteps to become an actor and director.
For nearly a decade now, Lý Bảo Điền has refrained from television acting, only occasionally appearing in some film projects. The actor has also left Beijing, settling in a tranquil countryside in Sơn Đông province to live 'in seclusion,' enjoying his old age.
Lý Bảo Điền avoids social media and rarely makes public appearances. However, through clips shared by his son Lý Úc, one can see 'General Luu Gu' living peaceful and carefree days. In his free time, he enjoys classical music, collects vinyl records, strolls with friends, critiques art, paints, sculpts...
'General Luu Gu' portrayed by Vương Cương
While Lý Bảo Điền opts for a simple, low-profile life, pouring all his dedication into his roles and art, Vương Cương is more active in showbiz.
Apart from acting, the star who plays Hòa Thân is a beloved MC for millions in China. He also stands behind hundreds of captivating cultural programs for CCTV and local TV stations, much adored by the audience.
In his film career, Lý Bảo Điền, besides portraying Luu Dung, has transformed into various other roles. Conversely, Vương Cương is almost exclusively tied to his portrayal of Hòa Thân. According to statistics, apart from General Luu Gu and The Brave Kỷ Hiểu Lam, he has revisited this cunning deity character on screen five more times.
After years of relentless work in various roles, Vương Cương now leads a wealthy life. He and his family reside in a luxurious mansion in Beijing. Moreover, according to Chinese media, the actor also owns a large and elegant ancient quadrangle courtyard.
Vương Cương is famously passionate about antique collecting. The General Luu Gu star possesses paintings by Tề Bạch Thạch, a vase from Emperor Qianlong's era, porcelain from Emperor Kangxi's era, Hòa Thân's musical instrument, calligraphy by Han My Lam (a famous Chinese artist)... He stated that his passion for collecting antiques partly stems from his portrayal of Hòa Thân.
Currently, at over 70 years old, Vương Cương remains actively involved in entertainment activities. He primarily performs in stage plays, participates in commentary programs, lectures on history, calligraphy programs, and antique shows. According to Sina, the highly sought-after artist's extensive knowledge and witty, sarcastic speaking style contribute to his popularity.
Regarding his personal life, after two failed marriages, Vương Cương now lives with his third wife and a son who is over 10 years younger than him. Vương Cương's current wife is Trịnh Diễm Đông, a beautiful violinist who is up to 20 years younger than him.
