A five-minute primer on an issue making headlines
Actor Tony Leung Ka-fai's drunken antics have been keeping reporters busy. First he reportedly embraced actress Sammi Cheng Sau-man at a party, then he was arrested for alleged drink-driving. And if that wasn't enough, a man Leung allegedly beat up three years ago is now suing him.
Who is Tony Leung Ka-fai? Is he the guy who starred in the movie In the Mood for Love?
No, the foreign press often confuse Tony Leung Ka-fai with Tony Leung Chiu-wai. The mix-up happens so often that the two stars have made a pact to play along if anyone mistakes them for each other. The Tony Leung in question was born in February 1958 and is probably best known internationally for his role as the Chinaman in the 1992 romance The Lover, with Jane March. Before he started acting, Leung worked as a street vendor, model and editor.
Where does he stand in Hong Kong cinema?
Leung is one of the busiest stars in Hong Kong. He has starred in seven films this year - including Everlasting Regret and Election - making him one of the most in-demand stars in the city. Since he first appeared on the screen in 1983, Leung has starred in 92 films, produced one and written another. He has also managed to convince a record company to give him a deal - despite his squeaky voice. Leung won the best actor award at the Hong Kong Film Awards in 1983 for The Burning of Imperial Palace and Reign Behind the Curtain. Seven years later, he won best actor again at Taiwan's Golden Horse Awards for Farewell China. After his role as a triad boss in Johnny To Kei-fung's Election he is being tipped as the hot favourite for best actor at this month's Golden Horse Awards.