Hong Kong Heritage Museum opens a major exhibition celebrating Leslie Cheung’s 70th birthday, featuring more than 300 items and a recreation of his former home.
A major exhibition celebrating the 70th birthday of Hong Kong pop icon Leslie Cheung opened at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum on September 8th. Titled MISS YOU MUCH·LESLIE 70th BIRTHDAY·EXHIBITION, the exhibition marks the museum’s second tribute to the legendary artist since 2023.
The museum said this year’s exhibition is larger in scale. For the first time, it also recreates parts of Cheung’s former home, offering visitors a glimpse into his life away from the stage and screen.
Cheung remains an iconic figure in Hong Kong popular culture. His music and films accompanied generations of fans, who affectionately called him “Gor-gor”, meaning “elder brother”.
The exhibition is divided into five sections and features more than 300 precious items. Some come from private collections belonging to Cheung’s close friends, fans and fellow artists.
At the exhibition, visitors can see recreated scenes from Cheung’s former home, as well as objects connected with his career in music and film. The displays include 11 stage costumes worn by Cheung during his concerts, along with movie posters and stills from films in which he starred. Many of these items are being shown to the public for the first time.
Among the exhibits, a birthday card stands out. Fans wrote the card for Cheung’s first birthday after his death. Words such as “I miss you so much” and “I will always love you” can be seen on the card. Together, they capture the enduring affection fans continue to hold for the singer and actor.
The exhibition also features a chair once used by Cheung, giving visitors a more personal connection to the star’s everyday life.
Several of Cheung’s stage costumes are also displayed in glass cases. Looking closely at the clothes and accessories he once wore on stage, visitors may feel as if the charismatic performer has returned for a moment.
A Butterfly and a Home
The exhibition is curated by Chan Suk-fan, a close friend of Cheung during his lifetime. She said the butterfly serves as the central theme because it carries shared memories between Cheung and his fans.
However, the recreation of Cheung’s former home is perhaps the most distinctive part of the exhibition. Beyond showcasing his brilliance on stage, the display aims to bring visitors closer to his everyday life.
“It is about letting people experience the atmosphere and warmth of his private world,” Chan said.
She added that the exhibition brings people together through love and memories. In her view, this gathering of fans is the best birthday gift they could give Cheung.
The exhibition runs from September 9th, 2026, to May 10th, 2027. Admission is free throughout the exhibition.
If you liked this article, why not read: When the Wind Still Blows: Remembering Leslie Cheung 23 Years On
