His story resembles a classic Hong Kong film in itself—full of dramatic turns and unwavering passion, a legend written in light and shadow that belongs to him and the city’s cinematic legacy.
On the day of the cover shoot, although Koo arrived with a ten-person entourage, he was calm, professional and efficient. Each person in the team performed their duties with precision: his manager reviewed the schedule early, security checked the venue, and the stylists fine-tuned every detail. The entire process was seamless, revealing a side of Koo often unseen behind the screen: reserved, pragmatic, meticulous, and deeply disciplined. It was immediately clear that he demands just as much from himself as from those around him.
Debuting in the 1990s, Koo evolved from a television heartthrob to a respected actor, and ultimately into one of the most influential entertainment figures in Hong Kong. Few may remember that his career actually began as a model manager before he was accidentally discovered—a story familiar in local showbiz folklore. With his fair skin and sharp features, he caught the attention of TVB, joining the network in 1993 and soon achieving fame through The Return of the Condor Heroes, where his portrayal of Yang Guo became iconic. After shifting from his early boyish image to a more mature and rugged look, Koo’s range expanded through roles in hit dramas like Burning Flame, Detective Investigation Files IV, and A Step into the Past.
In the 2000s, he transitioned to film, boldly experimenting across genres—comedy, romance, crime, and action—earning critical and commercial acclaim with films like Election and Overheard. In 2018, he won the Hong Kong Film Award for Best Actor for Paradox, becoming one of the few to hold both TV King and Film King titles.
Two days before this shoot, Koo celebrated his 55th birthday. While most would slow down at this stage, he continues to push forward. Long financially independent, he has chosen instead to invest in the future of Hong Kong cinema. His production company, One Cool Group, founded 12 years ago, spans nearly every facet of the industry, from production and post-production to visual effects, PR, talent management, and animation. His goal: to unite and strengthen the Hong Kong film community.
His groundbreaking sci-fi film Warriors of Future—Hong Kong’s first major effects-driven blockbuster—redefined the local film landscape, earning international praise for its Hollywood-level production. In 2024, Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In became a cultural phenomenon, sweeping the Hong Kong Film Awards with nine wins, including Best Film and Best Director, and even represented Hong Kong at the Oscars. Its premiere at Cannes reaffirmed the global power and potential of Hong Kong cinema.
Today, beyond being an actor and producer, Louis Koo also serves as the president of both the Hong Kong Performing Artistes Guild and the Federation of Hong Kong Filmmakers. His focus has shifted from personal success to the long-term survival and rebirth of the industry he loves. He is rebuilding the legacy of the “Hollywood of the East” one step at a time.
How do you feel about being labelled an “Entertainment Mogul”? What’s the biggest misconception about you?
I just take it as a joke. I’ve never taken that label seriously. Honestly, I don’t care what others say, so any misunderstandings about me don’t really matter.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as an actor?
Don’t get too attached. Whether in life or work, everything eventually returns to zero. There’s nothing worth clinging to.
Has your career been carefully planned, or do you just go with the flow?
There’s always a plan, but sometimes, you have to adapt to circumstances. The times change so fast that plans often can’t keep up. Especially in today’s economic climate, unexpected things happen all the time. The best way is to plan, but still go with the flow.
How has your mindset changed from being an actor to being a boss?
As an actor, you might think you lack control, but being a boss means even less freedom. The mindset is totally different. When I read scripts now, I can’t just think like an actor. I have to consider the bigger picture, like market trends and creative direction. Writers often just write what they want, but as a producer, I have to think about what the audience needs now and in the future. Change takes time, you can’t rush it.
Astronomia Solar Constellations, Jacob & Co.
With the film adaptation of A Step into the Past releasing soon. What should audiences expect?
Even though it features much of the original cast, we’ve also brought in many new actors, so I’m not sure what expectations people have, but I’m excited for everyone to see it. After more than two decades, reuniting with the team felt completely natural, like no time had passed at all.
What does “Being Your Own Man” mean to you? How do you stay true to yourself as a public figure?
Being in charge of your own life, that’s the most natural thing in the world. If you don’t take responsibility for yourself, who will? Whether or not you’re in the public eye, staying true to yourself is what matters most.
Photographer: Olivia Tsang
Editorial Director: Jumius Wong
Creative Direction and Styling : Jenine Oh
Producer: Second Li
Hair: Dan Tam
Make up: Carman Man
Photo Assistants: Sing Chu, Michael Tang
Stylist Assistants: Sing Lei, Tung Kam
Location: Soho House Hong Kong
