And while she would continue to impress audiences and critics throughout the 1990s and 2000s, it was not until 2011, 27 years after she first appeared on screen, that she was recognised at the Hong Kong Film Awards, for her portrayal of Empress Wu Zetian in the 2010 film Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame—an event she referenced at this year’s Hong Kong Film Awards, at which she was presenting.

“There was an actress who, starting from 1990, was nominated six times over about 20 years,” she quipped before announcing the best new actress awardee. “The most important quality an actor needs is patience.”

Offscreen, Lau’s personal life has long been the object of intense scrutiny, particularly by paparazzi and gossip columnists who routinely dissect and narrate— often inaccurately—her latest happenings.

But far from breaking her spirit, the relentless attention seems to have strengthened Lau’s resolve, shaping the confidence and poise we see in her today. While she attributes part of her physical confidence to sport and exercise, she traces a core aspect of it to a deeper source. “Confidence is an accumulation of life experiences,” she reflects. “When you’re open to whatever life presents, you find yourself at ease, unafraid.”

Lau practises what she preaches, remaining open to new challenges. Even after cementing her status as a force in the film industry, she ventured into the realm that many actors consider the ultimate challenge: theatre.

Lau’s theatrical debut came in Run For Your Wife (1988), an adaptation of British playwright Ray Cooney’s work that starred legends Chow Yun-fat and Leung and was directed by the acclaimed Fredric Mao. She has also worked with Mao on Red Boat (2000), Tonnochy (2015) and Witness for the Prosecution (2018); her performance in Tonnochy earned her the best actress award at the 24th Hong Kong Drama Awards.

“The stage has always held a magnetic charm for me,” says Lau. “Theatre deepens my craft with every performance. You interact with your character daily, uncovering new layers each time, bringing a fresh vitality to the stage. Regardless of how well you know the script, every time you step into the spotlight, you must let go of everything you’ve memorised and be fully present, responding anew to what your fellow actors offer.”

Lau may have been away from the stage for six years, but clearly, her love for it runs deep. She’s set to star in a new production premiering this December, The Truth About Lying. The play delves into the complexities of modern marriage and relationships and features a cast of actors with whom Lau has never worked before— perhaps most noticeably, Dayo Wong.

Not only will she be working with all new colleagues, she will also be mastering a new form of physical expression. “In this story, we follow the journey of a lawyer who, struggling with a loveless marriage, turns to dance as an escape,” Lau explains. “Dancing becomes her refuge—a way to express unspoken emotions and rediscover herself.

“I approach every role as a new challenge, always pushing myself to jump out of my comfort zone. It’s a delicate balance—you need to be cautious and focused yet simultaneously bold and uninhibited.”

Beyond the myriad characters Lau has brought to life on screen and stage, it’s her own personality and unapologetic authenticity that captivate. “Life has taught me the importance of daring to be oneself,” Lau says. “Despite facing societal pressures, I’ve learnt that self-validation and establishing your own values are crucial. The more you shrink back, the more the world encroaches upon you. But when you stand tall and brave, asserting your worth, others make way.”

This philosophy of self-assurance stems from a deep understanding of her identity and an embrace of her unique qualities. She takes style risks, for example, consistently pushing the boundaries of conventional celebrity fashion and setting trends.

Lau has become the epitome of modern femininity— strong, independent and proudly herself. Her blend of traditional values and contemporary empowerment resonates with audiences across generations. “In this digital age, awash with misinformation and online negativity, it’s vital to remain grounded and faithful to your true self and aspirations,” she says with a slightly amused expression, adding that if it weren’t for observing the children around her growing up, she would scarcely realise her own age—after all, she refuses to let her age keep her from being a famously keen hiker, who has also been known to paraglide, ski and snowboard.

“There are countless possibilities in life. Age is just a number, and your spirit is what truly defines you. Embrace new experiences, challenge yourself and never stop growing. This mindset has kept me young at heart and open to the endless opportunities that life presents.”

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