‘The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber’ star Sunny Tai works as restaurant diswasher due to lack of acting jobs

On Nov. 27, fans spotted Tai working at a restaurant in Wong Tai Sin District, Hong Kong, where he was seen taking orders, cleaning tables, and washing dishes.

In an interview with HK01Tai revealed that he started this job two weeks ago after struggling to find work in the entertainment industry. He explained that his career has always been unpredictable, with periods of intense work followed by stretches of inactivity. Despite the situation, Tai remains eager to return to acting when the right opportunity comes along.

While working at the restaurant, Tai not only serves customers but is also learning to make coffee and milk tea, with hopes of starting his own business someday.

His casual attire led some customers to believe he was filming a scene for a show, and he admitted feeling a bit awkward when they asked questions. “I usually smile and say I’m helping out a friend,” he shared, acknowledging the challenge of overcoming his discomfort.

After images of him working at the restaurant went viral on social media, Tai addressed the situation on Weibo, stating, “I am not ashamed of my job. It is honest work. I’m not stealing or robbing anyone. I am just living my life.”

Tai works long hours, often waking up at 5 a.m. and working over 10-hour shifts, sometimes finishing around midnight. The physical toll of standing for extended periods has led to back pain and dizziness. Despite the challenges, he earns around HKD 300-400 (US$38.5-51.4) per day, with a monthly income of over HKD 10,000 (US$1,285).

Hong Kong actor Sunny Tai washes dishes at a restaurant. Photo from Weibo

The 51-year-old actor, who has been active in the Hong Kong entertainment industry for over 30 years, has appeared in more than 150 productions, including popular TVB dramas like “The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber” (2000), “Files of Justice 3”, and “Cold Blood Warm Heart”. In recent years, he has continued to work in dramas such as “Sinister Beings” and “Battle of the Seven Sisters”.