He Qing, also known as Flora He and fondly remembered as “Sister Lianlian,” was one of the most respected actresses in China. Born on 13 January 1964 in Quzhou, Zhejiang Province, she became a household name for her graceful performances in television and film. She was admired not only for her beauty but also for her ability to bring classical characters to life. Her career spanned four decades, and she achieved something no other actress in China had done before—playing major roles in adaptations of all four of China’s Great Classical Novels.
Her death on 13 December 2025 in Beijing at the age of 61 marked the end of an era. She passed away after a long battle with a brain tumour, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire actors and audiences alike. Fans across China mourned her loss, remembering her as a “classical beauty icon” who carried the dignity of traditional Chinese culture into modern television.
He Qing Biography, Age, Death, Husband, Movies
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | He Qing |
| Other Names | Flora He, Qing He |
| Nickname | Sister Lianlian |
| Profession | Actress |
| Famous For | Only Chinese actress to play major roles in adaptations of all four Great Classical Novels |
| Date of Birth | 13 January 1964 (Monday) |
| Birthplace | Quzhou, Zhejiang, China |
| Date of Death | 13 December 2025 (Saturday) |
| Place of Death | Beijing, China |
| Age at Death | 61 Years |
| Cause of Death | Brain Tumor (prolonged illness) |
| Nationality | Chinese |
| Religion | Buddhism |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in (168 cm) |
| Eye Colour | Black |
| Hair Colour | Light Brown |
| Hometown | Beijing, China |
| Education | Zhejiang Jiangshan High School; Graduation from Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Spouse | Xu Yajun (m. 1995 – div. 2003) |
| Children | Son – Xu He |
| Years Active | 1985 – 2021 |
| IMDb | @nm0372093/ |
Early Life and Background
As per the sources, He was born on 13 January 1964 in Quzhou, Zhejiang, China. Growing up in a culturally rich environment, she showed an early interest in the performing arts. Her family encouraged her to pursue her passion, and she joined Zhejiang Jiangshan High School before moving on to professional training.
Her formal education came through the Zhejiang Kunqu Opera Troupe, where she studied traditional Chinese opera. Kunqu is one of the oldest forms of Chinese theatre, known for its elegance and discipline. This training gave Qing a strong foundation in performance, helping her master expressions, gestures, and voice control. Raised in a Buddhist household, Qing carried her faith throughout her life.
Entry into the Entertainment Industry
Qing’s career began in the mid-1980s, a time when Chinese television was gaining popularity. Her first film role was in Disciples of Shaolin Temple (1985), where she played Xiao Qin. This debut introduced her to audiences and marked the start of a long journey in cinema and television.
In 1986, she appeared in Journey to the West as Pretty Girl Lianlian. Though it was a small role, it became iconic because of the popularity of the series. This performance earned her the nickname “Sister Lianlian,” which stayed with her throughout her career.
She could play delicate, tragic characters as well as strong, determined women.By the late 1980s, she was already being cast in major productions, including Hong Lou Meng (Dream of the Red Chamber), where she played Qin Keqing in 1988 and Fairy Keqing in 1989.
Rise to Fame
Qing’s rise to fame began with her role in Journey to the West (1986). Although she appeared only briefly as Pretty Girl Lianlian, the series itself was a cultural phenomenon in China. Millions of viewers watched the show, and her graceful presence left a lasting impression.
Her early performances in films like Bi Shui Shuang Hun (1986) and Disciples of Shaolin Temple (1985) showed her versatility. By the late 1980s, she had already become a familiar face on Chinese television. Her role as Qin Keqing in Hong Lou Meng (Dream of the Red Chamber, 1988) further cemented her reputation.
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The Great Classical Novels
One of Qing’s greatest achievements was her unique distinction of playing major roles in adaptations of all four of China’s Great Classical Novels. These novels—Journey to the West, Dream of the Red Chamber, Romance of the Three Kingdoms, and Water Margin—are considered the pillars of Chinese literature.
- Dream of the Red Chamber (Hong Lou Meng): He Qing played Qin Keqing in 1988 and Fairy Keqing in 1989.
- Romance of the Three Kingdoms (1995): She played Xiao Qiao, one of the most famous beauties in Chinese history.
- Water Margin (1997–1998): As Li Shishi, she portrayed a courtesan who influenced politics and culture during the Song Dynasty.
- Journey to the West (1986): Her role as Pretty Girl Lianlian may have been short, but it was iconic enough to earn her lasting recognition.
Notable Television and Film Roles
In Green Grass by the River (1992), she played Hua Youlin, a role that showcased her ability to connect with everyday audiences. In The Legend of the Condor Heroes (2003), she played Bao Xiruo, adding depth to one of China’s most beloved martial arts stories.
Her role as Empress Dowager Sun in The Imperial Doctress (2016) was another highlight. Even in her later years, she continued to take on challenging roles, such as in Wen Tian (2021). Her film Singing Behind Screens (2003) also showed her talent in cinema, proving that she could shine beyond television.
Personal Life
Qing’s personal life was as eventful as her career. In 1995, she married actor Xu Yajun, who was also a well-known figure in Chinese television. Their marriage was seen as a union of two talented stars, and fans admired them as one of the most charming couples of the time. However, the relationship faced challenges, and by 2003, the couple divorced.
Despite the separation, Qing remained devoted to her son, Xu He. She raised him as a single mother, balancing her demanding career with her responsibilities at home. Friends and colleagues often spoke of her dedication to her child, noting that she always placed family above fame.
Health Struggles & Death
Qing continued to act well into the 2010s and 2020s. Her role in The Imperial Doctress (2016) showed that she could still command the screen with authority and elegance. In 2021, she appeared in Wen Tian, proving that her passion for acting remained strong even in her later years.
However, behind the scenes, she faced serious health challenges. She was diagnosed with a brain tumour, which led to a prolonged illness. Despite treatment, her condition worsened over time. On 13 December 2025, Qing passed away in Beijing at the age of 61. Her death was mourned across China, with fans and fellow actors paying tribute to her contributions.
Interesting Facts About He Qing
- She was nicknamed “Sister Lianlian” after her role in Journey to the West.
- She was the only actress to star in adaptations of all four Great Classical Novels.
- Her zodiac sign was Capricorn, known for discipline and resilience—traits she displayed throughout her career.
- She had striking black eyes and light brown hair, which added to her unique charm.
- She was deeply devoted to Buddhism, which influenced her calm and balanced personality.
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