Legendary food critic, writer, and film producer Cai Lan has passed away peacefully at the age of 83. The influential figure, who was celebrated as one of Hong Kong’s “Four Great Talents”, died on 25 June at Hong Kong’s Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, according to a statement posted on his official Facebook page.
The statement shared on the afternoon of 27 June revealed that Cai Lan left this world surrounded by close friends and family, in line with his wishes. It added that to respect his desire for privacy, no public funeral ceremony was held, and his remains have already been cremated.
Cai’s passing marks the end of an era for many who grew up watching his television programmes or reading his columns, which inspired generations of food lovers and film enthusiasts across Asia.
A Storied Life Spanning Food, Film, and Literature
Born on 18 August 1941 in Singapore to a family steeped in literature, Cai’s father was a poet and calligrapher while his mother and elder sister served as school principals. In 1963, he relocated to Hong Kong, where he quickly carved a name for himself in the city’s cultural scene.
By the age of 14, Cai had already published his first article in the Nanyang Siang Pau, and by 16, he was studying filmmaking in Japan. He went on to join Shaw Brothers Studio and later rose to become vice-president of Golden Harvest, one of Hong Kong’s most successful film production companies. During his illustrious film career, Cai oversaw iconic titles like Riki-Oh: The Story of Ricky, Erotic Ghost Story, Peacock King, and City Hunter.
His versatility extended well beyond the film industry. A polyglot fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, English, and Japanese, Cai was also affectionately dubbed “Food God” by fans, hosting popular shows like Cai Lan’s Asia One, Life is Fun, and World Tastes, where he explored cuisines across the continent.
Remembering a True Hong Kong Cultural Icon
Cai’s unique blend of humour, erudition, and unpretentious love for food set him apart. He was known for his outspoken opinions and witty commentaries, never shying away from criticising pretentiousness in the culinary world. Despite being hailed as a gourmet, he insisted he was simply someone who loved to eat.
Cai, along with the late Jin Yong, Ni Kuang, and James Wong, was revered as one of Hong Kong’s “Four Great Talents”, a group of cultural giants whose works left an indelible mark on the city’s identity. His influence reached beyond Hong Kong, resonating with audiences throughout Malaysia, Singapore, China, and beyond.
As news of his death spread, tributes poured in from celebrities, fans, and food lovers alike. Many expressed gratitude for his contributions to the culinary and entertainment worlds, while others shared fond memories of his television shows and writings.
Cai Lan’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, the films he produced, and the joy he brought to Asian food culture. The region has truly lost a beloved icon.