The Duke of Mount Deer (1998)
A beloved Hong Kong TVB classic following the irresistible rogue Wai Siu Bo from a Yangzhou brothel to the heart of the Qing imperial court.
The Duke of Mount Deer - Series Information
- Original Title: 鹿鼎記
- First Air Year: 1998
- Last Air Year: 1998
- Created by: Lee Tim-Sing
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, Comedy
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (45 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 45
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: CN
- Spoken Languages: Cantonese
- First Air Date: June 1, 1998 (South Korea - 15)
- Networks: TVB Jade
- Alternative Titles: 鹿鼎記 (HK), The Duke of Mount Deer 1998 (US), 鹿鼎记陈小春版 (CN)
- Production Companies: TVB, 香港电视广播有限公司
- Production Countries: Hong Kong
The Duke of Mount Deer - Plot
Wai Siu Bo is the son of a prostitute who works in a brothel in Yangzhou. After joining the Heaven and Earth society, he heads to the Capital and gets enrolled into the service of the Grand Eunuchs. There he becomes friends with the young emperor Hong Hei (Wai mistakes the emperor as another young eunuch) and falls in love with the emperor's younger sister, Princess Kin Ning. His adventures in the Forbidden City leads him into discovering the empress dowager as an impostor; finding several volumes of the prized 42 Chapters which contains the location of a treasure cave; helps the emperor kill the baddie courtier, Lord Obai; and see his position rise from humble eunuch to a grand courtier and confidante of the emperor.
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The Duke of Mount Deer - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Lee Tim-Sing
Main Cast
- Jordan Chan Siu-Chun
- Steven Ma Chun-Wai
- Hilary Tsui Ho-Ying
- Rain Lau Yuk-Chui
- Cherie Chan Siu-Ha
- Ku Feng
- Lau Kong
- Ken Lok Tat-Wah
- Paul Che Biu-Law
- Chu Tit-Wo
The Duke of Mount Deer - FAQs
Is The Duke of Mount Deer based on a novel?
The Duke of Mount Deer is based on the classic wuxia novel 'The Deer and the Cauldron' by legendary Hong Kong author Jin Yong (Louis Cha), first serialized between 1969 and 1972. The novel is widely regarded as Jin Yong's masterpiece and a landmark of Chinese-language literature, subverting traditional martial arts hero archetypes through its roguish protagonist Wai Siu Bo.
What makes Jordan Chan's portrayal of Wai Siu Bo memorable?
Jordan Chan brought an irresistible energy and comedic flair to Wai Siu Bo, making the character feel genuinely lovable despite his scheming ways. His chemistry with the ensemble cast and his ability to balance slapstick humor with moments of surprising warmth earned this 1998 TVB adaptation a devoted following that endures decades later.
Where can you stream The Duke of Mount Deer?
Streaming availability for The Duke of Mount Deer varies by region. You can check the latest viewing options, including any subscription, rental, or purchase platforms currently carrying the series, on JustWatch, which aggregates up-to-date streaming information for your location.
How does this 1998 version differ from other adaptations?
The 1998 TVB production stands out for its comedic tone and Jordan Chan's distinctly roguish, street-smart take on Wai Siu Bo. Compared to earlier and later adaptations, this version leans heavily into the novel's satirical humor, making it one of the most entertaining and widely cited renditions of Jin Yong's beloved story.
Who are the main cast members in The Duke of Mount Deer?
The series stars Jordan Chan Siu-Chun as the cunning Wai Siu Bo and Steven Ma Chun-Wai as Emperor Kangxi. The supporting cast includes Hilary Tsui Ho-Ying, Rain Lau Yuk-Chui as Princess Kin Ning, Cherie Chan Siu-Ha, Ku Feng, Lau Kong, Ken Lok Tat-Wah, Paul Che Biu-Law, and Chu Tit-Wo.
Is The Duke of Mount Deer worth watching today?
Absolutely. This 1998 TVB classic remains a fan favorite for its sharp humor, colorful characters, and Jordan Chan's charismatic lead performance. Whether you're a longtime admirer of Hong Kong period dramas or new to Jin Yong adaptations, its blend of palace intrigue, comedy, and adventure makes it a thoroughly entertaining watch.
What genre is The Duke of Mount Deer?
The series blends drama and comedy within a Qing dynasty palace setting, drawing on wuxia storytelling traditions. Unlike conventional martial arts dramas, it prioritizes wit and social satire over action, following an unlikely hero who survives the treacherous imperial court through cunning and charm rather than fighting skill.
Are there other similar series fans of this show might enjoy?
Fans of The Duke of Mount Deer often enjoy The Legend of the Condor Heroes (1983) and The Deer and the Cauldron (2014), both rooted in Jin Yong's universe. Heavenly Sword and Dragon Slaying Sabre (2019) and The Legends (2019) also offer compelling Chinese period drama storytelling with strong ensemble casts.
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