The verdict for the lawsuit between Stephen Chow and his ex-girlfriend, socialite and heiress Yu Manfung, also known as Alice, has been announced.

Alice had filed a lawsuit against the Hongkong comedy icon to claim over HK$70mil (S$12.1mil) which she said he promised to give her. Her lawyers argued that 10 per cent of the profits from property investments that she recommended was to be paid to her, and that he had not given her a single cent. Stephen’s side rebutted her claims, saying that the promise was just sweet nothings and therefore not legally binding.

After hearing the arguments from both sides, a High Court judge ruled that not only will Alice not receive any money from Stephen, she will also have to pay his legal fees.

One of the points that the pair’s lawyers argued over was when the alleged 'promise' between Alice and Stephen was made. Alice claimed that he made the declaration over the phone, while Stephen maintained that he said it while they were on his balcony.

The judge ruled that the verbal agreement between Stephen and Alice, who were lovers at the time, was informal. In addition, the conversation took place on Christmas Day, and concluded that it was a discussion between the former couple about an exchange of gifts.

There was also no discussion of nor justification for the 10 per cent figure, which suggested that it was mentioned at the spur of the moment. That meant that it was understood to be a gift, rather than a business agreement, and thus not legally binding.

Stephen, who was not present to hear the verdict, has thanked the media through his lawyers and hopes that this is the end of the saga. Alice’s lawyers have not commented on whether they will appeal.

Photos: PBE Media