Bruce Lee’s former lover Betty Ting embraces quiet life away from spotlight

Hong Kong-American martial artist Bruce Lee (R) and Taiwanese actress Betty Ting. Photo from Instagram/mr_kun_san

According to Mp Weekly, the 77-year-old Ting lives in Hong Kong with her daughter Candy Heung, whom she shares with her ex-husband, Hong Kong entertainment tycoon Charles Heung. In recent years, she has made only a few public appearances, mainly for events promoting Buddhism.

Ting has dismissed rumors that she "became a Buddhist because of Lee." She clarified that her decision to embrace Buddhism came after she gave birth to Candy, viewing it as a destined path. By reading Buddhist scriptures, she found enlightenment and decided to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle.

"Now, I am on a vast, smooth path. Whatever comes my way, I no longer feel fear," she shared. "Moreover, I am able to help others through the Buddhist knowledge I have acquired."

Ting expressed contentment with her peaceful, simple life, noting that her daughter is caring and close to her, which gives her a sense of warmth and fulfillment.

She still maintains her signature short hairstyle from her days in the entertainment world. Observers often comment on her youthful look and fashionable style.

Born Tang Mei Li, Ting was raised in a wealthy, influential family in Taiwan. She joined Shaw Brothers Studio in 1967, launching an acting career where she often portrayed seductive female roles. In 1973, Lee passed away at her residence, which brought intense public scrutiny to her life.

In a 2014 talk show appearance, Ting admitted she found Lee’s charisma irresistible, despite his marriage to Linda Emery at the time. Reflecting on his cause of death, she remarked: "I believe his health was not as strong as people thought. He overexerted himself (through martial arts and acting), so everything happened naturally."

She also disclosed that Lee had fainted previously, though he had kept this from her.

In 1976, Ting married Charles Heung, whose family was associated with the Hong Kong underworld. The couple divorced in 1980.

Lee, born in 1940, captivated international audiences with films such as "The Big Boss," "Fist of Fury," "The Way of the Dragon," "Enter the Dragon," and "The Game of Death." In 1999, Time magazine named Lee one of the 100 most influential figures of the 20th century.