Ian Fang feels he 'abused' Christopher Lee's mentorship
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Loading... - KOJI HASHIMOTO
- 15 Oct 2024
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Ian Fang has opened up about his mentor-student relationship with veteran actor Christopher Lee in an emotional interview on Rise 'n Shine Sessions, reflecting on how he feels he "abused" the trust and guidance Lee had given him over the years. The 34-year-old actor, who rose to fame in 2011 with his performance in On The Fringe, candidly discussed the challenges, regrets, and personal growth he experienced during their 13-year-long mentor-mentee journey.
Fang recalled how the connection began unexpectedly when he received a message from Fann Wong—Lee's wife—about an acting opportunity. "I got a message saying, 'Hi, I am Fann, using my husband's phone. Are you available from September to November? Chris needs someone to play his son in a drama,'" Fang shared. That drama was Show Hand (2012), a project that further solidified their bond. Fang initially worked as a production assistant on set before being cast, which allowed him to observe and learn from Lee closely. He soon began addressing Lee as "shifu" (master), in recognition of the mentorship.
Over the years, Lee provided him with valuable acting advice and constructive feedback, playing a pivotal role in his artistic growth. "Christopher really taught me well and led me to a certain stage of my life," Fang said, emphasizing the depth of their mentor-student relationship.
However, Fang admitted that his personal mistakes had strained their bond. He reflected specifically on events from 2019, when a private exchange between him and fellow actress Carrie Wong on Instagram was leaked, drawing public criticism. Both actors issued apologies, but the incident left a lasting impact. Fang acknowledged that Lee had expressed his disappointment and confronted him outside Mediacorp during that period. "He really kicked my butt—he did it for my own good. I felt I let him down by abusing the relationship between mentor and student," Fang confessed.
Fang’s regret became even more apparent as he shared how he no longer refers to Lee as shifu in public. "I now call him elder brother on social media. When I can make him feel proud again, I will call him shifu once more," he explained tearfully, adding that regaining Lee's pride in him is one of his personal goals.
Towards the end of the interview, Fang became emotional when reflecting on his relationship with Lee: "I want to say sorry. I feel really bad toward him. He took care of me, but I disappointed him a lot." Struggling with tears, he admitted that people often see him as cool and arrogant, but beneath that exterior, he feels "sensitive and fragile."
The interview offered a rare glimpse into Fang’s vulnerability and his desire for redemption, underscoring the importance of mentorship and the personal challenges that come with it.
