Veteran Singaporean actor Li Nanxing, known as “Ah Ge”, turned 62 on 7 November. He had planned a low-key celebration, but friends in Beijing surprised him with a thoughtfully arranged gathering, making it a birthday to remember. They prepared auspicious Shanxi dishes, screened classic scenes from his acting career and presented him with a biography chronicling his years in entertainment, leaving him surprised, delighted and deeply moved.
Speaking to Shin Min Daily News from Beijing last Sunday (8 November), Li said he had intended to keep his birthday celebrations simple and had already arranged a trip to Xi’an with Vivian Lai and his company’s manager. He had not expected his Beijing friends to plan such an elaborate series of surprises.
Thoughtful touches were evident throughout the birthday dinner. Besides preparing Shanxi specialities symbolising good fortune, his friends put together a montage of memorable scenes from his acting career, taking him on a trip down memory lane. Particularly meaningful was their gift of an illustrated biography documenting his career — a special keepsake.
Li expressed particular thanks to Hao Yiwen, known as “Potato Princess”, and internationally renowned hairstylist Kim Robinson, who flew in from Hong Kong especially for the celebration. The care his friends had put into the occasion, and the distance some had travelled, left him feeling deeply touched.
During the dinner, Li sang “Tomorrow Will Be Better”, wishing his friends happiness and adding to the warm atmosphere. He also wished everyone good health and happiness.
Asked about his plans as he turned 62, Li revealed that he was preparing a major AI production and hoped everyone would look forward to it.
New drama The Survivors premieres on streaming platforms
The Leftovers, which stars Li, premieres on Netflix and mewatch Prime on Monday (9 November), ahead of its Channel 8 debut on 16 November. The second and third seasons are expected in 2027. The drama comprises three seasons of eight episodes each. Li has a substantial role across all three seasons, with filming spanning six months.
Li said that although filming was demanding, he enjoyed the process. The production used virtual production technology, with LED screens displaying different settings so that actors could see their surroundings directly. However, prolonged exposure to the bright lights caused dryness and discomfort from the glare. He had to drink plenty of water and step outside for fresh air from time to time.
The drama also features extensive medical terminology relating to organs, nerves and medication. Having to deliver his lines while performing surgery prompted him to exclaim: “My goodness!”
