KUALA LUMPUR: Hong Kong actor Philip Keung, 58, is best known for his tough-guy roles on screen.
However, he showed a very different side of himself on an episode of TVB's new variety show, where he broke down while reflecting on his past.
The emotional episode saw Keung tearfully recounting painful memories of his childhood, according to China Press.
On the show, which explores profound spiritual topics with its guests, the Goldfinger star revealed that he never met his biological father and was raised by his mother and stepfather.
When he lost his mother at the age of 12, it forced him to take on the responsibility of caring for his two younger siblings.
Unable to care for them as he was a child himself, the siblings were eventually separated and sent to different children's homes and boarding schools.
Keung broke down, saying: "I was lucky to grow up with a stepfather and mother, but my siblings didn't have that."
The experience left him not wanting to have any children of his own.
Keung who is married to former ATV actress, Anna Kam also said that he once considered searching for his biological father to confront him but eventually chose to let go of his anger.
Initially playing supporting roles, he was once told by a senior actor to quit acting and pursue cooking instead.
"Hearing that was heartbreaking and deeply discouraging," he admitted.
However, the encouraging words of veteran actor Ku Feng gave him hope.
"Your time will come. Don't change careers."
Keung's perseverance eventually paid off, earning him the Best Supporting Actor award at the 37th Hong Kong Film Awards and cementing his place in the industry.