Actor Liu Dagang, best known for his portrayal of Sha Wujing (Sha Monk) in the classic Chinese TV drama Journey to the West, has passed away at the age of 78.
According to The Paper on November 7, the news was confirmed by Beijing-based opera artist Liu Bing, who revealed that Liu Dagang died on November 3 after battling illness. His family announced that a simple funeral service will be held, in accordance with the late actor’s wishes.
Liu Dagang rose to fame for his role as the kind-hearted and loyal Sha Wujing in Journey to the West: Part 2, which aired in 2000 as a continuation of the original 1986 version. While the first Journey to the West starred Yan Huaili as Sha Wujing, the sequel directed by Yang Jie and produced by China Central Television (CCTV) featured Liu Dagang as part of the iconic cast alongside Liu Xiao Ling Tong, Xu Shaohua and Chi Zhongrui.
Broadcast for the first time on February 8, 2000, the drama achieved a nationwide rating of nearly 30%, cementing its place as one of China’s most celebrated television works of the early 21st century.
Born in 1947, Liu Dagang was originally a performer with the National Peking Opera Theatre of China and was honored as a First-Class National Actor. He transitioned to television and film in the 1990s, appearing in major productions such as Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Prime Minister Liu Luoguo, and The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber: The Devil Cult Leader.
Known for his calm yet powerful presence and grounded performances, Liu Dagang earned deep respect from both audiences and colleagues. Fans have flooded Weibo with tributes, expressing grief and admiration for the veteran actor who brought depth and humanity to one of Chinese television’s most beloved characters.
“His portrayal of Sha Wujing was gentle but strong, humble yet loyal a true reflection of Chinese cultural values,” one fan wrote.
As news of his passing dominates China’s Weibo Hot Search, Liu Dagang’s legacy continues to resonate with generations who grew up watching Journey to the West, a series that remains timeless in the history of Asian television.
Sources: K14
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