Speaking on the final episode of the variety program “The Spirit of The Lion Rock Fred Ma,” which aired Nov. 15, the 62-year-old recalled the crisis that followed his decision to finance his own film, according to The Star.

He said he turned down a HK$3 million acting offer so he could concentrate on his project, a choice that proved costly when the film flopped and left him deeply in debt.

“I was so foolish back then. I should’ve accepted the role,” he admitted, saying he still regrets the decision.

To get by, Yen said he borrowed not only from loan sharks but also from members of his own production team. He added that the loan-shark debt was settled within a few weeks.

Reflecting on those years, Yen credited his passion for acting with keeping him going.

“No amount of money will get you to the top if you don’t love what you do,” he said.

He closed the program with a message of resilience: “Work hard, stay resilient, and never give up.”

Yen’s film career spans more than four decades and includes notable works such as “Hero,” “Kill Zone (SPL),” the “Ip Man” franchise, “14 Blades,” and “xXx: Return of Xander Cage.” He has confirmed that “Ip Man 5” and Fireline 2 are currently in the works.

In 2022, the South China Morning Post estimated his net worth at about US$40 million.