Writer of epic martial arts thrillers dies at the age of 94

Renowned Hong Kong author Louis Cha, whose epic martial arts thrillers inspired numerous films and sold some 300 million copies worldwide, has died aged 94.

Known by his pen name Jin Yong, Cha was well known across the Chinese-speaking world, while overseas his novels have drawn parallels to The Lord of the Rings series. Packed with hard-hitting kung fu masters and intricate plot lines, his books bring to life the different dynasties of ancient China. They have given rise to TV dramas and video games, as well as dozens of movies. Cha died in Hong Kong on Tuesday after a long illness. Among his most famous works are The Demi-Gods and SemiDevils, Deer and the Cauldron, and Legends of the Condor Heroes – published in English for the first time in February. Cha also founded Chinese-language newspaper Ming Pao in 1959, now a leading publication in Hong Kong.