HÀ NỘI — Actor Hán Văn Tình has passed away at the age of 60 after battling lung cancer for over a year.

The actor was best known for his role as Chu Văn Quềnh in TV serial Đất Và Người (Land and Human).

Tình was born in 1957 in Văn Lang Commune in the northern province of Phú Thọ. He studied at the Faculty of Tuồng Art-Vietnam Tuồng Art School (now known as Hà Nội University of Theatre and Cinema) from 1972 to 1976.

After graduation, he worked as an actor for the National Tuồng Theatre. He also held the position of deputy director of the theatre and won several prizes at national Tuồng Festivals, including a silver medal for his role as Ngự Y (Royal Physician) in the play Tiếng Thét Giữa Hoàng Cung (A Scream in Royal Palace) in 1990 and another silver medal for his role as Thổ Công in the play Bạch Tinh (White Snack) in 1996.

In 1999, Tình was presented with the medal For Vietnam Stage by Vietnam Stage’s Artist Association.

He was, however, best known for playing antagonists in TV serials, notably Chu Văn Quềnh in Đất Và Người (Land and Human), Sở in Bão Qua Làng (Storm Sweeps the Village) and Trọc in Canh Bạc (Gamble).

He was diagnosed with lung cancer in January 2015, but maintained a positive attitude throughout his battle against the disease. Encouraged by family and colleagues, he became better and was able to participate in several shows. In early 2016, despite his condition worsening, he joined the Tết (Lunar New Year) comedy titled Thông Gia Đón Tết (Alliance Welcomes Tết) while undergoing treatment.

Tình was hospitalised on September 1 when the cancer spread to his brain. He passed away at his home in Nam Từ Liêm District three days later. His funeral will take place at Phùng Hưng Funeral Home on September 7.

Tình’s death has caused great sorrow for both his family and the colleagues who accompanied him through the ups and downs of Việt Nam’s traditional opera.

“He was a very good-natured and sincere man who received a lot of affection from us,” actor Công Lý said. “I have worked with him in several films and seen that he always tried his best in any role, even minor ones, to leave a good impression on the audience. We are very saddened by his death," he added. — VNS