ProfileHow Sammi Cheng became a Cantopop superstar, celebrated actress and style icon, but has endured a rocky relationship with husband Andy Hui

Sammi Cheng Sau-man is a renowned Cantopop diva from Hong Kong, often compared to iconic figures such as Anita Mui, Sandy Lam, and Faye Wong. With an entertainment career spanning over three decades, Cheng has made a significant impact in the music and film industry. Her journey to stardom began in 1988 when she participated in the New Talent Singing Awards at the age of 16. Despite securing the third position, her potential was recognized by the sponsoring record company, Capital Artists, which offered her a recording contract. While juggling her studies and a budding singing career, Cheng released three full-length studio albums that laid the groundwork for her future success.

In 1990, Cheng received her first major award, marking her as a promising new talent. However, her career skyrocketed when she performed a duet with fellow singer and now husband, Andy Hui. The song won the 1993 Jade Solid Gold Top 10 Awards, marking a significant turning point in her career. Cheng then underwent a transformation, changing her appearance and releasing her fourth studio album. Her new avant-garde style resonated with fans, bolstering her singing career. In the mid-1990s, Cheng signed with Warner Music Group, leading to a shift in her image and an expansion of her fan base beyond Hong Kong. She has received numerous awards throughout her music career and holds the record as the youngest female singer to perform more than 50 concerts in Hong Kong.

Cheng's impact extended beyond her music as she ventured into acting. She made her film debut in 1992 and has been nominated for the best actress award at the Hong Kong Film Awards 10 times, finally winning the award in 2023. In her personal life, Cheng and Hui have been a couple since 1993. They got married in 2013, but their marriage has had its share of controversies. In 2019, a scandal involving Hui surfaced, but Cheng publicly forgave him. Cheng's Christian faith has been a source of hope that has helped her through her struggles with depression as well as challenging times in her marriage. The couple is still going strong and will soon be celebrating their 10-year anniversary.