Tony Leung Chiu Wai Honored with Honorary Doctorate from HKUST

In an exciting development for fans of Hong Kong cinema, the iconic actor Tony Leung Chiu Wai has added a prestigious honorary doctorate to his impressive resume. On November 23, the 62-year-old star was recognized by The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) for his significant contributions to the arts, receiving the honorary title of Doctor of Humanities.

Celebrating a Remarkable Achievement

Celebrating this remarkable achievement, both Leung and his wife, renowned actress Carina Lau, took to Instagram to share pictures from the graduation ceremony, showcasing Leung in a striking red robe and traditional graduation cap. Lau shared her heartfelt congratulations with the caption: "Congratulations, Dr. Leung!"

A Distinguished Group

Leung was not alone in receiving an honorary doctorate; he joined a distinguished group that included Jensen Huang, co-founder and CEO of the American tech giant Nvidia, who was honored with a Doctor of Engineering. The event highlighted the university's commitment to recognizing individuals who inspire and positively influence society.

Role Model for Students

In a statement from the university published in the South China Morning Post, it was noted that Leung serves as a role model for students, encouraging them to pursue ambitious dreams and make impactful contributions to their communities.

A Testament to an Illustrious Career

This accolade is a testament to Leung's illustrious career, particularly his acclaimed performances in Wong Kar-wai classics such as *Happy Together* (1997) and *In The Mood For Love* (2000), the latter earning him the prestigious Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival.

Historical Recognition in 2023

In 2023, Leung also made history as the first Chinese actor to receive the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival, further solidifying his status as a cinematic legend.

Inspiring Speech at the Ceremony

During the ceremony, he wowed the audience with an inspiring speech delivered in English. "I've been acting for 42 years and I have become who I am with a bit of method, ambition, discipline, hard work, and, of course, a lot of luck to be better each time when the camera rolls," he shared.

The Importance of Humility

He emphasized the importance of maintaining a humble mindset, suggesting that treating oneself as a beginner with each new project can keep an actor grounded and avoid the pitfalls of ego.

An Uplifting Conclusion

Leung concluded his speech with an uplifting message to the audience: “Love what you do, have passion. It’s not an easy path, but for me, it is very rewarding.”

A Symbol of Inspiration

This honorary doctorate not only celebrates Toni Leung's extraordinary career but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere. With his talent and dedication, Leung continues to make waves in the entertainment industry, proving that the journey to success is just as important as the accolades along the way.