Legendary Hong Kong Actor Patrick Tse Yin, Nicknamed 'Brother Four,' Dies at 89

The nickname ‘Brother Four’ originated from Tse Yin’s standout performance in TVB’s King of Kings and his being the fourth child in his family, a detail highlighted in reports about his early career.
Tse Yin was especially beloved by Asian audiences for his portrayal of Long Si, the ‘God of Gamblers,’ in the classic 1980s era that helped cement his status across the Chinese-speaking world.
The actor’s last public appearance was in May, when he was seen at a cafe, seated in a wheelchair and using a cane, appearing cheerful despite his declining health.
Tse Ting-ting, Tse Yin’s sister who has lived in Canada, is expected to return to Hong Kong to bid farewell to their father, indicating family involvement in the farewell process.
Nicholas Tse recalled his father’s motto that ‘the show must go on’ and that ‘no matter what, the work must continue,’ as he supported the family and funeral arrangements.
Hong Kong acting legend Patrick Tse Yin, known to fans as "Sei Gor" or "Brother Four," has died at the age of 89. His son, actor-singer Nicholas Tse, confirmed the news, saying his father passed away peacefully surrounded by family after a period of declining health, according to Free Malaysia Today.
Tse Yin's career stretched over seven decades. He was one of the most recognized faces in Chinese-language cinema. His death marks the end of a golden era in Hong Kong film, according to kbizoom.
Born in 1936, Tse Yin built his name at Kong Ngee Film Studio. He was the fourth child in his family — the origin of his beloved nickname "Sei Gor," meaning "Brother Four." His distinctive style and charisma set him apart from his peers, according to Head Topics.
His most iconic role was Long Si, the "God of Gamblers," in the classic 1980s films. That role cemented his status across the Chinese-speaking world. Fans loved him for his cool charm and magnetic screen presence, according to Egyptian Gazette.
Nicholas Tse canceled his scheduled Qingdao concert dates to fly back to Hong Kong and handle funeral arrangements. He recalled his father's motto: "no matter what, the work must continue" and "the show must go on." Those words guided how Nicholas honored his father's legacy while stepping away from the stage, according to Egyptian Gazette.
Sister Jennifer Tse asked the public for privacy as the family grieves. The family said funeral details would remain private, in line with Tse Yin's own wishes for discretion, according to Free Malaysia Today.
Tse Yin was last seen in public in May. He appeared at a café, seated in a wheelchair and using a cane. Despite his frail condition, witnesses said he looked cheerful and in good spirits. It was a fitting final image for a man known for his optimism, according to kbizoom.
His sister, Tse Ting-ting, who lives in Canada, is expected to travel back to Hong Kong to say farewell. The family's gathering reflects the deep bonds Tse Yin built — both on screen and at home, according to SSBCrack.
Fans and industry figures across Asia paid tribute after the news broke. Many pointed to his decades of work and his refusal to slow down even in old age. He was praised for his dedication to the craft right up until his health made it impossible, according to Head Topics.
Tse Yin leaves behind a legacy that spans generations of Hong Kong audiences. From his early days at Kong Ngee Film Studio to his iconic gambling roles, he shaped what Hong Kong cinema looked and felt like. He was 89.
Publishers
19
Articles
28
Reach
47