Renowned Chinese Actor Zhu Longguang, Beloved for Portrayal of Buddha, Passes Away at 86

Users are sharing heartfelt condolences and reminiscing about his portrayal of the Buddha, characterized by his kindly brows and benevolent eyes, as well as his dignified and authoritative demeanor. Many have expressed their gratitude for his contributions to Chinese television, particularly his role in the beloved classic "Journey to the West." Some have even shared anecdotes about how convincing his portrayal was, with people mistaking him for a real Buddha and offering reverence during filming.

Fellow actors, including Six Xiaolingtong, who played Sun Wukong in the same series, have also paid tribute to the late actor. Six Xiaolingtong posted a message of mourning on August 3, 2025, expressing deep sorrow and remembrance for "the eternal 'Buddha'." The widespread sharing of clips from the show and messages from fellow actors underscores the collective grief and the profound impact of his work.

Zhu Longguang's family publicly announced his passing on August 3, 2025, revealing that he had died the day before in Beijing due to illness. The news has sparked a wave of nostalgia, with many recalling his other significant roles, including Gao Chuanbao in "Tunnel War" and Tong Bodad in "My Own Swordsman."

Zhu Longguang's legacy extends far beyond his iconic portrayal of the Buddha. His contribution to the world of Chinese television has been immense, and his passing serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and promoting traditional culture and arts. As an actor, he was able to bring a sense of authenticity and depth to his roles, leaving an indelible mark on the collective memory of audiences.

The impact of his passing is multifaceted, with significant implications for the entertainment industry, cultural heritage, and social discourse. Zhu Longguang's demise serves as a reminder of the importance of cultivating and promoting artistic talent, as well as preserving and honoring the contributions of veteran artists. The outpouring of grief and nostalgia has also sparked renewed interest in classic Chinese literature and arts, highlighting the need for greater support and recognition of the cultural industry.

While the full extent of Zhu Longguang's impact has yet to be fully realized, it is clear that his passing marks the end of an era. As the entertainment industry and society at large come to terms with his demise, there is a growing recognition of the need to cherish and promote traditional culture and arts, as well as to honor the contributions of those who have dedicated their lives to the world of entertainment.