Hong Kong Actor Xie Xian Dies at 89 After Seven-Decade Career

Xie Xian, a legendary Hong Kong actor known as "Brother Four," died on July 20 at age 89, marking the end of a career spanning over seven decades in film and television. His death was confirmed by his son Nicholas Teo through social media on July 20, 2026. Xie passed away peacefully surrounded by family after a period of declining health. Born Xie Jiаyu in 1936, he earned his nickname "Brother Four" both from his birth order among eight siblings and from his iconic role as "Lo Si-hoi" in the 1980 TVB series *The Conman*, one of the earliest "gambling god" portrayals in Hong Kong cinema.

Xie's entertainment career began at age 16 when he enrolled in an actors' training program, making his film debut in 1954. He rose rapidly as a leading man in Cantonese-language films during the 1950s and 1960s, known for his tall stature, handsome features, and sophisticated demeanor. He appeared in over 70 films during his peak years and was among the first to portray Yang Guo in the film adaptation of *The Return of the Condor Heroes* in 1960. As the Hong Kong film industry evolved, Xie transitioned to television in 1978, where *The Conman* made him a household name across Hong Kong. He continued acting in television dramas including *Love in a Fallen City* and *The Legend of the Condor Heroes*.

In his later years, Xie became a fixture in Hong Kong entertainment despite reducing public appearances. He received the Hong Kong Film Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2019 at age 83. In 2022, at age 85, he won Best Actor at the 40th Hong Kong Film Awards for his role in *Twilight of the Warriors*, becoming the oldest recipient of that award in the ceremony's history. His son Nicholas Teo had previously won the same award, making them the first father-and-son pair to achieve this honor. According to his son's statement, Xie remained committed to his craft throughout his life, often saying "the show must go on," and insisted on appearing on screen in his best possible form despite personal difficulties.

In his final public appearance in April 2026, Xie was spotted at a café in Hong Kong's Peak district using a wheelchair and cane, though he remained gracious when photographed with members of the public. His son Nicholas, who had been preparing for a concert in Qingdao scheduled for July 25–26, returned to Hong Kong immediately upon learning of his father's death to handle arrangements. His daughter Tiffany Teo, residing in Canada, was expected to return as well. Both children released statements expressing that Xie dedicated his life to entertainment and bringing joy to audiences, and asked for privacy during their period of mourning.