Anita Yuen admits son fell ill from pressure, reveals he once asked Julian Cheung to 'find a different mom'
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Hong Kong actress Anita Yuen admitted her strict parenting caused her son, Morton, significant stress, leading him to fall ill.
- Morton once asked his father, Julian Cheung, to "find a different mom."
- Yuen has since reflected on her parenting style and is working to improve her relationship with her son, treating him more like a friend.
Hong Kong actress Anita Yuen has opened up about the intense pressure her strict parenting style placed on her son, Morton, to the point of making him ill.
Yuen, who is married to actor Julian Cheung, revealed that her demanding approach to raising their now 20-year-old son created a strained relationship. Morton was so overwhelmed that he once approached his father, suggesting he "find a different mom." This admission came after Yuen had previously shared photos of their seemingly happy family life, but later began pixilating her son's image in public posts, hinting at underlying tensions.
Following her son's illness, Yuen took the doctor's advice to heart and began working to mend their relationship. She described their current dynamic as being like friends, emphasizing that she now listens more to his thoughts and feelings. When asked about Morton potentially entering the entertainment industry, Yuen expressed reservations, citing the need for more than just good looks, including talent, charisma, and inner strength.
Find a different mom.
She stated she would not pave a path for him in the industry, even if he wanted to join his father on stage during a concert. He would need to earn the opportunity through his own efforts and demonstrate competence. Yuen publicly apologized to Morton, acknowledging the loss of freedom he experienced due to the constant scrutiny of being a "star second generation."
Despite the past difficulties, Yuen noted that Morton has a naturally optimistic disposition and has never blamed his parents. She expressed regret for the pressure he faced because of their public profile, stating, "Mommy is sorry for you, because of our relationship, you have lost some freedom."
Mommy is sorry for you, because of our relationship, you have lost some freedom.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.