Luu Dai Cuong: From the role of Sha Tang for life, to the sad news that he just passed away at the age of 78

Artist Luu Dai Cuong, a familiar face to Asian audiences through the role of Sha Tang in "Journey to the West", died at the age of 78 after battling illness, shocking fans.

Liu Dagang, a veteran Chinese artist, is widely known for his gentle image of Sha Wujing (Sha Tang) in the TV series Journey to the West part two (2000). Born in 1947 in Beijing, China, his life and career have been a long journey from traditional theater to the small screen, leaving a deep artistic legacy in the hearts of Asian audiences. His death on November 3, 2025, at the age of 78, closed a glorious chapter of an actor who always maintained a simple and professional demeanor.

Artistic background from drama: National First Class Actor:

Before becoming a familiar face on the small screen, Liu Dagang had a solid artistic background and admirable experience in the field of theater, especially drama – the quintessence of Chinese performing arts. He was originally an actor in the National Opera House of China.

In the play, Liu Daigang specializes in playing the role of Jing, a type of male supporting role whose face is drawn with a personality that is often strong, middle-aged or even funny. Decades of working in the theatrical arts have trained him to control his voice, flexibility in expression, and precision in physical movements – factors that are paramount for a future classical actor.

It was thanks to his outstanding dedication and talent that he was awarded the title of "National First Class Actor", a noble title given by the Chinese government to artists who have made outstanding contributions. This title is not only a professional recognition but also a guarantee of the quality of his art.

The transition to the screen: Affirming diversity:

By the 1990s, Liu Daigang began to turn his attention to the field of drama and film. Unlike many theater artists who have difficulty switching to the screen because of his overly exaggerated performance style, Liu Dai Cuong has quickly adapted and proven his diversity.

His ability to incarnate is shown through many supporting roles but stands out in the classics. In the film Three Kingdoms Dien Nghia (1994), he played the role of Sun Lam. In the famous sword fight Yi Tiando Long Ky: The Demon Sect Master (1993), he transformed into a Shaolin monk. In particular, in the movie Prime Minister Liu Gu, he took on the role of Hua Minh Duong. These roles ranged from court officials, martial arts masters to monks, showing that he was not "framed" into any type of character.

The role of a lifetime: Sha Tang of Journey to the West part two:

The biggest mark and also the peak of Liu Daigang's fame is the role of Sha Wujing in the second part of the TV series Journey to the West, broadcast around 2000.

After the resounding success of the 1986 version of Journey to the West, director Duong Khiet decided to make a sequel to complete the unfinished journey of prayer. The biggest challenge was to find a replacement for artist Yan Hoai Le, who played Sa Tang in the first film, due to health problems. The fate that came to Liu Daigang was completely accidental. Director Yang Jie, who had collaborated with him in another film, remembered him and invited him to audition.

With a background in drama, Luu Dai Cuong quickly showed suitability for character creation. Although he was in his 50s when he joined the project, he still tried to gain weight, practice and persevere. Liu Daigang's image of Sha Tang has a different demeanor – not too "gypsy" like previous versions, but gentle, calm and has inner depth. He succeeded in portraying a gentle Sangha, absolutely loyal and someone that Tang Tang's teachers and students always trusted.

This role has become an icon, helping Luu Dai Cuong become a part of the childhood memories of many generations of Asian audiences, including Vietnam. The success of the second part of the film continues to strengthen the reputation of the classic cast, including Lu Xiaolingdong (Sun Wukong), Ma Dehua (Zhu Ba Jie) and Chi Trong Thuy (Tang Tang).

Lifestyle and respect from colleagues:

Throughout his career spanning more than half a century, Liu Daigang has always maintained a simple, humble and discreet lifestyle. Unlike the glamour of showbiz, he rarely appears in front of the media and does not interfere with fame and profit.

Close colleagues, especially "Tang Tang" Chi Trong Thuy and "Sun Wukong" Lu Xiaolingdong, all gave him respectful remarks. They described him as a gentle and enthusiastic person who often took the initiative to help friends and colleagues when they were in difficulty. It is that meticulousness, professionalism and sincerity that makes him respected by both the audience and the profession.

In terms of personal life, Liu Dajiang is married to a woman who works outside the entertainment industry and has a son. He always kept his family's private life private.

End of Life and Eternal Legacy:

In the last years of his life, his health gradually weakened, making him rarely appear in public. However, he still actively participates in Journey to the West film crew reunions with close colleagues, such as the 2024 event, where four teachers and students sang the song "Where can I ask for directions?", leaving precious moments in the hearts of fans.

He died in Beijing on November 3, 2025, at the age of 78, after a long battle with illness. According to his will, his funeral was held simply and privately.

His passing has caused deep shock and grief. A large number of audiences and colleagues expressed their respect, calling him "the gentle Sa Tang of our childhood". Liu Dagang's legacy is not only the role of the great Satang, but also a model of serious investment in art, a successful transition from traditional theater to the screen, and a simple and virtuous lifestyle. The loyal and patient image of Sa Tang played by him will live forever in the memories of many generations of fans.

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