Hong Kong's 'First Flower Boy' Sparks Debate Over New Look

Remember Daniel Chan? The man once crowned Hong Kong's first "flower boy" just showed up at a Greater Bay Area Mid-Autumn gala, and the internet has a lot to say about his new look.

Now 51, Chan built his early career on a clean, boyish charm that made him a heartthrob across the Chinese-speaking world. For plenty of fans, he's a straight-up childhood memory. But in recent years, his changing facial features have repeatedly sparked debate, with critics questioning whether he's gone too far with cosmetic procedures.

At the gala, Chan took the stage in a blue outfit. Once photos made the rounds, viewers zeroed in on what they called stiff facial expressions and odd, unnatural contours — a far cry from the fresh, handsome look people remember.

Plenty of netizens didn't hold back, saying his face looked frozen like a wax figure and that the spark he used to have was gone. Some lamented that a naturally good-looking guy had messed with a perfectly good face, arguing that middle age doesn't need heavy tinkering — and that trying too hard to stay young can backfire.

But a big chunk of the criticism landed somewhere else entirely: the makeup. Commenters blasted the styling as rough, with messy contouring and piled-on shadow making his face look strange and out of proportion. The overall vibe, they joked, was off — and a bit puffy.

The running gag? Chan must have "pissed off his makeup artist." People said slathering on thick makeup to hide signs of aging was pointless and actually dragged his looks down, with many suggesting his team find a new makeup artist.

So far, Chan hasn't responded to the backlash over his styling or appearance. Fans are hoping he'll go back to that clean, natural look and bring back the classic Hong Kong leading-man energy they fell for in the first place.

What do you think — is it the makeup, the procedures, or are people being too harsh? Drop your take in the comments.