Jimmy Linchong: Had Looks Only Elvis Could Match

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He was handsome and had looks that only Elvis Presley could match. In fact, some fans said he looked like The King. It was a matter of opinion but he could hold an audience in the 1960s, both on stage and on the screen.

Originally known as Lin Hsi-hsien, Jimmy Lin Chong was born in 1934 to a Taiwanese politician with a Japanese wife in Tainan, Taiwan. He graduated from the Tamkang Junior College of English (now Tamkang University).

His started his career in 1955 as a film actor and when he completed his military stint in 1957 he was invited to play in Taiwanese and Mandarin films. In 1962, Lin studied in Japan and when Hong Kong had become a dreamland for those interested in films.

Jimmy Lin Chong

林沖『大盜歌王』電影歌曲集 HD

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A leading Japanese film company signed a contract with Lin, enabling him to play in Hong Kong-Japan co-productions like A Star Of Hong Kong and Tokyo, Hong Kong, Hawaii. 

Lin’s popularity was extended to Hong Kong in 1968 when he became a hit with his avant-garde costumes and performance. He was just as popular in Singapore with a generous fan base. I remember watching him on TV and enjoying the moment.

It was obvious that the Shaw Studios recognised his talent and popularity. He became an actor with Shaw Brothers and played a leading role in a musical called, The Singing Thief. 

It was directed and written by the well accepted Chang Cheh. The musical drew crowds and Lin continued with two more films, The Singing Escort and Tropicana Interlude.

Do you know anything more about Jimmy Linchong?

Edited: http://www.hkcinemagic.com/

Image: http://www.flickr.com/photos