Local actor Collin Chee has issued an apology after the daughter of the late Hong Kong actor Benz Hui criticised a Singaporean for leaking details of her father’s funeral.
Benz Hui, who passed away at 76 on 28 October, had a private, closed-door funeral last month. His daughter, Charmaine Hui, posted on Instagram on December 6, criticizing the “ignorance and invasion of privacy” of the person who shared information about the ceremony. She stressed that guests were told: “No recording & no sharing allowed at Benz Hui’s private funeral.”
Most attendees respected the rules, but Ms Hui called out an “individual from Singapore” for leaking “certain ceremony details” to the media outside of Hong Kong. She added, “Sometimes, silence speaks far louder than exposure.”
Collin Chee’s Interview
Hong Kong media outlet HK01 suggested that Ms Hui was referring to Collin Chee, who had given an interview to Singapore media. In a tearful 18 November Lianhe Zaobao interview, Chee recounted flying to Hong Kong at 2 a.m. to attend Hui’s funeral.
He spoke about the differences in funeral customs in Hong Kong compared to Singapore and mentioned that “many media personalities and celebrities attended the funeral, with the hall filled with wreaths.” He also shared that organisers played a 20-minute tribute video showcasing Hui’s many screen roles, which TVB had put together.
Chee added that Hui’s stepson delivered a touching eulogy, and he even detailed part of it during the interview. He also revealed that Hui had invited him to co-host his daughter’s wedding dinner. Reflecting on the experience, Chee said that after receiving praise from the family, he decided to return to acting, crediting Hui for his support and encouragement.
Apology to the Family
When contacted by Shin Min Daily News on 7 December, Chee apologised to the family, saying he had only intended to share his relationship with the late actor. “I never expected to hurt his family, and I am very sorry,” he said. He also stated, “If there was anything inappropriate, it was unintentional… for my slip of the tongue, I apologise again to Foon Hei Gor’s family.”
Chee noted that he had respected the funeral rules forbidding photos, videos, and social media posts. He mentioned that he had called the family to apologise, but his call went unanswered. He also sent a text message, but has not received a reply.
