Lau is known to portray good characters, but could play cunning and sly characters with ease (includes The Bund and Land of Wealth). He is most noted for being the only actor to play the role of Hong Qigong in the TV series adaptations of Louis Cha's novels The Legend of the Condor Heroes and The Return of the Condor Heroes for four times in a row. Lau is also well known for playing the role of the patriarch of a family in A Kindred Spirit. He also appeared in the Latvian/Hong Kong film, Hong Kong Confidential (Amaya).[2]
Lau's son, Hawick Lau, also formerly a TVB actor, was married to the famous mainland actress Yang Mi.[3]
Career
Lau Dan's career spans more than five decades, during which he has played numerous roles in TV dramas and films. He is perhaps best known for his role as "Hong Qigong" in the 1983 TVB adaptation of "The Legend of the Condor Heroes", based on the famous wuxia (martial arts) novel by Jin Yong. His portrayal of the humorous and righteous character earned him widespread recognition.
Another of his most famous roles is "Lau Dat Fa" in the long-running TVB sitcom "Come Home Love", where he played the family patriarch. This role endeared him to a younger generation of viewers, cementing his status as a beloved actor across multiple age groups.
Despite starting his career playing various villain roles, Lau Dan has built a reputation for his roles as a kind-hearted and dependable father figure, appearing in many family-centric dramas. He remains one of Hong Kong's most recognizable veteran actors.
