It's never too late to make a firm commitment — this is a message that You Benchang, a 92-year-old actor with the National Theatre of China, sent to the world when he pledged his oath to join the Communist Party of China on Monday.

Hearing the news, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, entrusted leading officials of the CPC Central Committee's Organization Department to convey his encouragement and regards to the renowned actor.

Xi, who is also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, described You's faith in the Party as truly heartwarming.

He expressed the hope that the veteran actor would play an exemplary role as a Party member, and inspire more cultural and artistic workers to contribute to the development and prosperity of socialist culture and to the building of China into a leading country in culture.

You has spent decades bringing beloved characters to life on stage and screen. His portrayal of Ji Gong, a legendary ancient monk who defended people against injustice, is deeply rooted in people's hearts and known to all.

You had played minor roles for half a lifetime before taking on the role of Ji Gong when he was over 50.

In a video released by people.cn, You recited the Party admission oath with a clear voice filled with emotion.

"I'm thankful that the CPC has accepted me, and I feel truly honored for my whole life," You said, adding that he wants to engrave every word of the oath in his mind, "because this is a promise I will uphold for the rest of my life".

At the ceremony, You gently touched the gleaming Party emblem pinned to his chest. "Joining the Party is not the 'final destination' of my life, but a new beginning," he said. "I will continue to use art to inspire hearts, staying true to my mission and living up to the people's expectations."

Reflecting on what inspired him to join the Party at such an advanced age, You recalled witnessing Shanghai's liberation on May 27, 1949, when he was 16 years old. He said that he saw the city undergo a dramatic transformation overnight, and the seeds of faith were then quietly planted in his heart.

"For decades, I always wanted to join the Party," You said. "But I felt I hadn't done enough to be a Party member. So I demanded more of myself and stayed ready to answer the Party's call."

You's life has been one of remarkable perseverance and passion. He began acting in stage plays at 18. From playing nameless extras to becoming a beloved leading actor, and even now remaining active on screen in his 90s, You's career embodies an unyielding dedication to the performing arts, showcasing his profound insight into life and humanity.

In 2024, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award of China Federation of Literary and Art Circles at the 32nd China TV Golden Eagle Awards, one of the country's top honors for television.

In early 2024, You submitted his 21-page handwritten application to join the CPC, and was accepted as a probationary member in May 2025.

His enduring spirit continues to inspire. Chen Long, a young Chinese actor, was present at the ceremony in Shanghai at which You pledged the oath to join the CPC. He said that he was honored to witness the ceremony, which "is truly a vivid class for me".

"Master You talked about 'benefiting the world for the public good', which, I understand, means serving the people," Chen said.

Commenting on You joining the CPC, Hu Ge, a famous Chinese actor, said on his social media platform that he is "a role model in our lifetime".

caodesheng@chinadaily.com.cn