Renowned Chinese actress He Qing passes away at 61, farewell ceremony set for December 15

Beloved Chinese actress He Qing, celebrated for her iconic roles in classic TV adaptations of the nation's four great literary works, passed away peacefully in Beijing on December 13, 2025, at the age of 61. Known as the ‘most beautiful woman in classical Chinese literature’ for her graceful portrayals, her death marks a profound loss to the entertainment world, with a farewell ceremony scheduled for December 15 at 10 am at Beijing's Changping Funeral Home in the Jiunan Hall, according to local media reports.

Tributes have begun pouring in from fans, colleagues, and film critic Yu Yong, who shared a black-and-white portrait on social media with the caption "There is no pain in heaven. He Qing, a great beauty, may you rest in peace."

Career highlights and iconic roles

Born on January 13, 1964, in Jiangshan, Quzhou, Zhejiang Province, He Qing graduated from the Zhejiang Kunju Opera Troupe and rose to prominence with roles embodying timeless literary heroines. She began her acting career in 1983 with her film debut Disciples of Shaolin Temple.


In the 1986 Journey to the West, she portrayed the spirited Lingji Bodhisattva; Qin Keqing in Dream of the Red Chamber, blending the charms of Daiyu and Baoyu; Li Shishi in Water Margin, a courtesan with patriotic fervor; and the enchanting Xiao Qiao in the 1994 Romance of the Three Kingdoms.

Her versatility shone in modern roles like the independent Hua Youlin in 1992's Green Grass by the River, Yang Jiuhong in The Grand Mansion 1912, and the ruthless yet nuanced Empress Dowager Sun in 2016's The Imperial Doctress.

He Qing's performances brought classical literature to life for generations, blending poise, depth, and classical beauty that earned her the enduring nickname ‘classical first beauty’.

News of her passing, confirmed via family obituary and reported by outlets like BackChina and ifeng, spread rapidly on December 14, prompting widespread mourning across social media and the entertainment circle.

While no official cause was disclosed, Yu Yong revealed she had been ill but sought privacy, allowing fans to remember her at her best.

FAQs

What are the exact details of He Qing's farewell ceremony?
Set for December 15, 2025, at 10 am in Jiunan Hall at Beijing's Changping Funeral Home, as per the family obituary.

Why is He Qing called the 'most beautiful woman in classical Chinese literature'?
Her stunning, versatile depictions across China's four great novels: Journey to the West, Dream of the Red Chamber, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, and Water Margin cemented this title for her ideal embodiment of classical femininity.