Gong Li: Unveiling the Iconic Actress’s Journey
Gong Li is a renowned Chinese actress known for her captivating performances in films such as “Raise the Red Lantern,” “Farewell My Concubine,” and “Memoirs of a Geisha.” With her exquisite beauty and exceptional talent, she has garnered international acclaim and numerous awards, making her a highly respected figure in the world of cinema.
Biography
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gong Li (Chinese: 巩俐) |
| Date of Birth | 31 December 1965 |
| Birthplace | Shenyang, Liaoning, China |
| Education | Central Academy of Drama, Beijing (Graduated in 1989) |
| Notable Films | Red Sorghum (1987), Ju Dou (1990), Raise the Red Lantern (1991), Farewell My Concubine (1993), Memoirs of a Geisha (2005), Coming Home (2014), and more |
| Awards | Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the Venice Film Festival, National Board of Review Award for Best Supporting Actress, Commander (Commandeur) of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, and others |
| Other Achievements | Head of jury at the 2000 Berlin Film Festival and the 2002 Venice Film Festival, first Asian person to hold such position at both events |
Early Life
Gong Li was born in Shenyang, Liaoning, China and is the youngest of five children. Her father was a professor of economics and her mother was a teacher. She grew up in Jinan, the capital of Shandong, and had a fondness for singing and dancing since childhood, dreaming of becoming a singer. Gong Li has played a significant role in bringing Chinese cinema to prominence in the West. She is a Chinese-born Singaporean actress who first gained international attention through her collaboration with Chinese director Zhang Yimou. Despite her love for music and dreams of a singing career, Gong Li has become renowned for her acting prowess and has been featured on the cover of TIME magazine as the first Chinese actress/actor. Gong Li can understand English but is uncomfortable speaking it off-camera and in interviews. She has been honored with a song written about her by the Red Hot Chili Peppers called “Gong Li” and is referred to as the “Meryl Streep of China” by Michael Mann and Rob Marshall. Gong Li speaks Chinese and has a child named Mamoru Yoki Chung Li.
Family
| Family Member | Information |
|---|---|
| Parents | Gong Li is the daughter of Gong Lize and Liu Ying. She spent her youth in Shenyang, China. Her father was an economics professor. |
| Sibling | There is no specific information available about Gong Li’s siblings. |
Height, Weight, And Other Body Measurements
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 5′ 7″ (170 cm) |
| Weight | Not Available |
| Age | Not Available |
| Net Worth | Not Available |
| Family | Not Available |
| Facts | Not Available |
| Spouse | Not Available |
| Education | Not Available |
Wife/husband / Girlfriend/boyfriend
Gong Li is a renowned Chinese actress known for her impactful performances in various films.
Gong Li is currently married to Jean-Michel Jarre, a French composer and electronic music producer. They got married on July 31, 2019.
Previous Relationships
| Partner | Relationship Type |
|---|---|
| Ooi Wei Ming | Married |
| Jeon Hye-jin | Girlfriend |
| Ooi Wei Ming | Girlfriend |
Career, Achievements And Controversies
Gong Li is a renowned Chinese actress who gained international fame through her compelling performances in various films. Her career began with her collaboration with director Zhang Yimou in the 1980s, which led to her breakthrough in the film industry. She has starred in numerous successful films, showcasing her talented acting skills, versatility, and beauty.
Throughout her illustrious career, Gong Li has received multiple accolades for her outstanding performances. She has won three Hundred Flowers Awards, two Golden Rooster Awards, a Hong Kong Film Award, and honorary awards at events such as the Berlinale Camera, Cannes Festival Trophy, and National Board of Review.
Notable Films
- Red Sorghum (1987)
- Ju Dou (1990)
- Raise the Red Lantern (1991)
- Farewell My Concubine (1993)
- The Story of Qiu Ju (1992)
Gong Li’s career has not been without controversy. She had a complex relationship with Zhang Yimou, which fueled rumors and controversies in her early career. Her portrayal of certain roles, particularly in the U.S., led to different perceptions in her homeland, adding to the controversies surrounding her career choices.
Trivia
- Had a song written about her by the Red Hot Chili Peppers (“Gong Li”).
- Can understand English but is uncomfortable in speaking it off camera and in interviews.
- Michael Mann and Rob Marshall refer to her as the “Meryl Streep of China”.
- First Chinese actress/actor on the cover of TIME magazine.
Faq
Gong Li is a renowned Chinese actress known for her work in both Chinese and international films. She has received critical acclaim for her performances and has been honored with numerous awards throughout her career.
Gong Li has appeared in a wide range of notable films, including “Farewell My Concubine,” “Raise the Red Lantern,” “Memoirs of a Geisha,” “Curse of the Golden Flower,” and “Coming Home.”
Yes, Gong Li has been honored with several prestigious awards for her acting, including multiple Best Actress awards at international film festivals and the Berlin International Film Festival’s Silver Bear for Best Actress.
Yes, Gong Li is known for her philanthropic work and has been involved in various charitable causes, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare.
Gong Li is fluent in Mandarin and has also demonstrated proficiency in English and Japanese in her films.
