October spans 31 days, and within this month, eight notable figures from the entertainment industry passed away. Their departures represent a significant loss to the arts community and deeply sadden their devoted fans. What makes this even more tragic is that several of these artists died prematurely, cutting short promising lives.
Unexpectedly, as November had just begun, the entertainment world was struck by another sorrowful announcement: the death of the renowned actor Lu Shuming at the age of 66. Lu Shuming rose to fame through his portrayal of Guan Yu (Guan Yun Chang) in the classic TV series \"Romance of the Three Kingdoms.\" His appearance in the role perfectly matched the popular image of Guan Yu held by millions—towering stature, phoenix-shaped eyes, distinct sleeping dragon eyebrows, a face like a ripe red jujube, exuding majestic presence. This role was undoubtedly the highlight of his career, earning him the title of the “living Guan Yu.”
Lu Shuming’s passing was sudden and shocking. Only on October 30th had he updated his social media to promote a project involving his apprentice, yet just a few days later, news of his death emerged early this morning, leaving many fans and colleagues deeply mournful.
Following the news, Sun Yanjun, who played Liu Bei in \"Romance of the Three Kingdoms,\" took to social media to express his condolences. He affectionately referred to Lu Shuming as “Second Brother,” describing the news as a thunderbolt from a clear sky, and wished him peace on his final journey.
The abrupt nature of Lu Shuming’s death suggests it was caused by a sudden illness, most likely related to heart complications. This speculation is reasonable given that even robust actors like Gao Yixiang tragically succumbed to cardiac issues. Reports have since confirmed that Lu Shuming passed away from an acute heart attack. A theater official verified the news and mentioned that memorial activities would be organized in his honor.
Reflecting on Lu Shuming’s life reveals a story filled with remarkable twists and inspiration. Unlike many actors who deliberately pursue the profession, Lu Shuming’s entry into acting was accidental, similar to how Vic Chou from the F4 group unexpectedly found his path. Originally, he accompanied a neighbor’s daughter to an audition in Xi’an for a drama academy, as her family worried about her safety traveling alone. Due to his tall stature, he was asked by the casting director, the now-famous Guo Da, to stay behind and audition himself, which marked the beginning of his acting career.
The role that made him famous—the portrayal of Guan Yu—also came about thanks to Guo Da’s recommendation. This introduction led the \"Romance of the Three Kingdoms\" production team to cast Lu Shuming in what would become his signature and legendary role.
However, before landing the Guan Yu role, Lu Shuming’s life was far from smooth. While working in the drama troupe, he was expelled for \"improper conduct\" related to a romantic relationship. Afterward, he spent considerable time socializing and dancing with younger people, which led to his detention for 14 months as a disciplinary measure. This episode tarnished his reputation severely. Thus, before Guo Da’s intervention and recommendation, Lu Shuming was truly at a dead end, making Guo Da’s support all the more crucial to his career revival.
Yet, the same role that brought him fame also limited his career opportunities. Lu Shuming became so closely associated with Guan Yu that he was typecast as a Guan Yu lookalike. After \"Romance of the Three Kingdoms,\" he struggled to find substantial roles for a period. To make ends meet, he accepted the controversial role of the Bull Demon King in \"A Chinese Odyssey,\" a part that barely showed his face. Even such minor roles became increasingly rare for him over time.
Later in life, after marrying and having children, Lu Shuming faced financial difficulties. When his son reached elementary school age, the family lacked a Beijing residency permit, making it hard to afford the 50,000 yuan tuition fee for his son’s schooling. In middle age, the pressures of life and an unstable acting career weighed heavily on him. When roles were scarce, he reluctantly took on appearances at various business openings, a reality many actors face. This situation recalls other performers like Chi Chongrui, who, under economic strain, participated in commercial performances dressed as \"Tang Monk\" despite health challenges.
In 2025, Lu Shuming reprised his iconic Guan Yu role in the film \"Qinglong Yanyue Dao,\" portraying the legendary warrior with the same commanding presence as before. This marked his final film role, returning to the character 27 years after first embodying him.
The news of Lu Shuming’s death is especially poignant considering Guan Yu’s own tragic fate—dying at 60 when killed in the Battle of Maicheng by Wu general Lü Meng’s forces. Lu Shuming’s passing at 66 echoes this historical parallel, leaving many to reflect with sadness. May Lu Shuming rest in peace.
