Former Hong Kong actress Lily Ho has long been remembered for her remarkable composure during decades of public scrutiny over her husband’s extramarital relationships. Following his death, however, she emerged at the center of one of Hong Kong’s most closely watched inheritance stories.

According to multiple Hong Kong media reports, businessman George Chao left behind an estate estimated at HK$7 billion (approximately US$900 million). The inheritance was reportedly distributed to Lily Ho and the couple’s four children, while children born outside the marriage did not receive a share under the reported estate arrangement.

It should be noted that inheritance distributions are governed by wills and applicable laws, and public reporting on family estates may not include every legal detail.

From Shaw Brothers Star to Hong Kong Socialite

Lily Ho rose to fame as one of the leading actresses at Shaw Brothers Studio, becoming one of Hong Kong cinema’s brightest stars after entering the entertainment industry at just 19.

In 1973, she married George Chao, the fourth son of shipping magnate Yue Kong Pao’s contemporary shipping family leader Chao Congyan. Their marriage between a celebrated actress and a wealthy heir attracted widespread media attention.

Following the wedding, Lily Ho retired from acting to focus on family life while George Chao assumed leadership responsibilities within the family’s shipping business.

Husband’s Affairs Made Headlines

Beginning in the mid-1990s, George Chao became the subject of repeated reports linking him to several long-term romantic relationships.

One widely reported relationship involved Tan Yu Mei, a former beauty pageant contestant. After media coverage intensified, George Chao publicly apologized and acknowledged his wrongdoing. Years later, reports claimed he continued the relationship and had provided significant financial support to Tan Yu Mei and her child.

When asked about the scandal, Lily Ho responded briefly: “A wife should be generous.” Rather than publicly confronting her husband or the women involved, she largely maintained a dignified public image, earning sympathy from many observers.

Subsequent reports also linked George Chao to dancer Cheng Xiu Li, who claimed they had shared a decades-long relationship and had two children together. Another woman frequently mentioned in media reports was former secretary Liu Yuan Yuan, who reportedly remained close to George Chao for many years.

Took Over the Business After Husband’s Illness

A major turning point came after George Chao suffered a stroke. According to Hong Kong media, Lily Ho assumed a greater role in managing family affairs as his health declined. After George Chao experienced another serious stroke in 2010, he reportedly became largely unable to oversee business operations.

During this period, Lily Ho and the couple’s eldest daughter gradually took over management of the family’s Wah Kwong Maritime Transport Holdings and other financial matters. Media reports also claimed financial support previously provided to George Chao’s other relationships was discontinued during this time.

Reported HK$7 Billion Estate

When George Chao passed away in 2016, his estate was estimated at approximately HK$7 billion. According to Hong Kong media reports, the inheritance was distributed to Lily Ho and their four children together.

One former partner reportedly filed a legal challenge seeking a share of the estate. However, local reports stated that the case did not proceed after required court fees were not paid, and the action was subsequently treated as withdrawn.

Following George Chao’s death, the family’s eldest daughter assumed leadership within the family business and has since been recognized by business publications as one of Asia’s prominent female executives.

Lily Ho, meanwhile, has kept a relatively low public profile, focusing on restaurant ventures, painting, and private life.

Her decades-long marriage marked by repeated public scandals and a closely watched inheritance battle has made her story one of the most frequently discussed cases among Hong Kong’s wealthy families. Over the years, local media have even dubbed her the “strongest legal wife” for the way she navigated the family’s complex history.

Sources: K14