Hong Kong star Lawrence Ng sells image rights for AI film, gets paid without having to act

At a recent promotional event for his new drama Deadly Sins, the 62-year-old revealed that AI was used to digitally recreate his appearance as a 20-year-old for an upcoming movie.

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Thematic image. This photo illustration, taken in Hong Kong on April 16, 2026 shows phones displaying screenshots of a video from Chinese model and influencer Christine Li accusing an AI microdrama of stealing her likeness without consent. PHOTO: AFP

July 3, 2026

KUALA LUMPUR – Hong Kong actor Lawrence Ng has licensed the rights to his younger likeness to a production company.

At a recent promotional event for his new drama Deadly Sins, the 62-year-old revealed that AI was used to digitally recreate his appearance as a 20-year-old for an upcoming movie.

“They used what I looked like at 20 to make a movie. I didn’t have to film anything,” he said, adding that he was very satisfied with the finished result.

According to Singapore news portal 8days, Ng said the project not only allowed him to experience being a leading man again, but also came with a handsome payout.

On whether AI is a threat to actors, the former TVB star responded in the negative, believing the technology could create new opportunities in the film industry.

“In the future, I can sit down without filming anything and still get the job done. Even if I break my legs, I won’t have to worry,” he said.

Ng made it clear that he has no concerns about his likeness being misused by the production company, as the agreement is supported by a comprehensive contract.

For the record, Ng made his showbiz debut in 1986 and is best known for his role in the TVB series Healing Hands.

He has also starred in shows such as ICAC Investigators 1996, The Hippocratic Crush II and The Men Of Justice, among many others.

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