With Michelle Yeoh in the spotlight for starring in director, Sean Baker's short film, 'Sandiwara', know all about her ex-husband, Dickson Poon and what caused their divorce.
Michelle Yeoh is one of the most beloved Malaysian actresses, with a career spanning over four decades. She has worked in both film and television productions in a wide range of genres. However, before she began acting, Michelle first came to attention in 1983, when she was 20, after winning the Miss Malaysia World beauty contest. She rose to fame for starring in films such as Yes, Madam (1985), Magnificent Warriors (1987), Police Story 3: Super Cop (1982), and The Heroic Trio (1993), to name a few. What made Michelle Yeoh stand out was that, at the time, she usually performed her own stunts. It is worth mentioning that she gained worldwide recognition for her work in the 1997 'James Bond' film, Tomorrow Never Dies.
At present, Michelle Yeoh is hogging the spotlight for starring in director, Sean Baker's short film, Sandiwara, which is supposed to premiere in late February 2026 at the Berlin Film Festival. As the buzz surrounding Michelle's upcoming film continues to grow, did you know that the actress once quit acting? Yes, you read that right! In 1988, Michelle married the co-founder of D&B films, Dickson Poon, and decided to retire from acting. However, the duo went their separate ways after 5 years of marriage and only then did Michelle return to acting once again. If you are interested in learning more about Michelle Yeoh's ex-husband, Dickson Poon, keep on reading.
Michelle Yeoh's ex-husband, Dickson Poon, is a Hong Kong-based businessman and entrepreneur. He is known nationwide for being the man behind the luxury retail empire, Dickson Concepts (DCIL). Notably, Dickson Concepts also owns other well-known companies, such as Harvey Nichols and S.T. Dupont. According to reports, several high-end fashion outlets created by Dickson can be found across Asia. As one might already guess, his decades-long influence on the luxury retail market positioned him as one of Hong Kong's most successful and topmost business leaders. According to reports, his net worth is approximately USD 1.3 billion.
Dickson Poon was born on June 19, 1956, into a family which had deep roots in business. Despite this, when he grew up, his most notable achievements did not come from relying on his family, but rather from his own ambition. Reports claimed that he was able to pursue opportunities in retail because he has an exceptional eye for spotting potential in luxury markets. This was especially true for international brands, which had just begun expanding into Asia at the time. His blending of high-end retail with selective brand partnerships also allowed him to establish a highly successful business model.
Notably, by the 1980s and 1990s, Dickson Poon had already managed to build a powerful retail group. If reports are believed to be true, at the time his group was responsible for bringing in a number of prestigious brands, such as Ralph Lauren and Harold's, not only into Hong Kong but also into its neighbouring markets.
Multiple reports suggest that Dickson Poon and Michelle Yeoh met not through their mutual acquaintances in Hollywood but rather through the Hong Kong entertainment industry. At the time, the Wicked: For Good actress caught the attention of Dickson's film production company, D&B Films. This wasn't surprising, given that Michelle was a rising actress in the Hong Kong film industry, becoming known for her discipline, screen presence, and, most importantly, her athletic ability in action films. While Dickson and Michelle initially maintained a professional relationship, it did not take long for it to evolve into friendship and, later, romantic love.
After knowing each other for a few years, Dickson Poon and Michelle Yeoh tied the knot in 1988. Their marriage was reportedly among the most high-profile at the time, with Michelle earning significant recognition as an actress who performs her own stunts and Dickson as one of the top businessmen in Asia. Additionally, their relationship was also closely followed by movie fanatics in Hong Kong and the business media. It is worth noting that after marrying Dickson, Michelle made the shocking decision to step away from acting and focus more on her family life with her husband. While her sacrifice was noteworthy, their marriage did not last for long, and they soon divorced after five years together. After they went their separate ways, Michelle also returned to acting.
When Dickson Poon and Michelle Yeoh divorced in 1992, their separation was handled in the most respectful and discreet manner to avoid any unnecessary scandal. Many believe that they parted on good terms, as neither of them made their personal differences known to the public. While they have mostly spoken respectfully about one another after their divorce, the cause of their separation was revealed many years later by Michelle herself. In an interview with Bustle, she stated:
“I loved the idea of having kids. I didn't want for us to bitter 10 years down the road…And when have the realisation [that you can't have kids], you have to deal with it. You deal with the curveballs that are thrown at you.”
What are your thoughts on Michelle Yeoh's billionaire ex-husband, Dickson Poon? Let us know.
Also read: Meet Michelle Yeoh's Husband Jean Todt, Ex-Ferrari CEO, Was Engaged To The Sandiwara Star For 19 Yrs