Chen Qiang Photo: CFP

Performing artist Chen Qiang passed away Tuesday at Beijing Anzhen Hospital. Chen played many memorable characters in his performing career which spanned for over 70 years. He appeared in over 40 movies.

His performances as the evil landlord Huang Shiren in The White Haired Girl (1950) and local tyrant Nan Batian in the Red Detachment of Women (1961) left unforgettable impressions on audiences at the time.

Often noted for his performances as the villain, Chen worked hard to avoid playing stereotypes, looking to convey more emotional characters. Chen once explained that he focused on the soft and filial side of Huang Shiren's character. Nan Batian was portrayed to be an arrogant and sly character with a shy and timid side. Chen created special facial expressions to separate each of his roles.

Chen was also a great comedian, expressing that his biggest desire was to let people learn from his films through laughter. He won the lifetime achievement award at the 17th China Golden Rooster and Hundred Flowers Film Festival in 2008.

News of Chen Qiang's death gained 50,000 responses online overnight. The public posted pictures of red candle, as a symbolic farewell to the loved artist.

Chinese actress Liu Xiaoqing gave her condolences to the Chen family and spoke about the time she spent with Chen in the film, What a Family.

Chen Peisi, a renowned comedian and Chen's only child who continued in the same industry as his father, accompanied his father until the very end.

Global Times