TVB Veteran Actor Laments Unstable Income, Says A “Full-Time Dish Washer Might Earn More” Than He Does

From driving Uber to juggling multiple part-time jobs, many Hong Kong actors have turned to side hustles to make ends meet. 

For veteran TVB actor Henry Lo, the struggle is all too real.

Henry, who is known for his supporting roles in dramas like Unchained Melody and Call of Destiny, recently voiced his concerns about his unstable income during a meeting with TVB executives.

He lamented that frequent show cancellations in recent years have severely reduced his income.

He also recalled an incident where he was booked to film a drama, only to find out later that his role had been cut due to script changes, leaving him without work, despite being on standby.

In an interview with HK01, he said: “I hope to receive fair and proper treatment. I understand that every company faces difficult times, but I still have rent to pay and have to live a normal life. A full-time dish washer might earn more than I do.”

The actor also urged TVB to appreciate its veteran supporting actors.

“Once they leave, they’re gone. If you don’t treasure them, there will be none left," he cautioned.

“Sometimes younger actors are made to play elderly roles – why not just cast older artistes instead?” he asked.

Despite his grievances, Henry has no plans to leave TVB and is currently in talks to renew his contract.

“Better to stick with what you’re familiar with. You can call me lazy, but going elsewhere means starting over. I’m 67 years old now. Honestly, whatever role you give me, I’ll do it and do it well,” he said.

Henry noted that he has been fortunate to have savings, which has kept him afloat without needing side jobs: "But I still have rent to pay and a family to support. So I hope the company provides us with the benefits we deserve."