It’s always a sombre moment when we hear news of celebrities passing away, whether due to age, accidents, or illnesses. This week, the entertainment industry mourns the loss of not just one, but three esteemed actors, leaving fans and colleagues heartbroken.
The impact of their deaths is profound, as these individuals have significantly contributed to the world of entertainment through their remarkable talents and memorable performances. Their legacies will continue to inspire future generations, but their absence leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of those who admired and loved them. Here are three actors who have passed away recently:
1. Johnny Ngan (顏國樑)
Hong Kong has bid farewell to 71-year-old veteran actor Johnny Ngan, known for his roles in TVB classics like “Hong Kong 81” (1981), “The Seasons” (1987), “A Kindred Spirit” (1995), and “Virtues of Harmony” (2001). The actor recently battled squamous cell carcinoma, enduring a harrowing 15-day struggle between life and death, with his devoted wife, Fok Kit-ching, constantly by his side. Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that starts with the growth of cells on the skin. The heartbreaking news of his passing has left a profound void in the entertainment industry, with online communities flooding with messages of grief and remembrance.
According to The Star, a phone interview with Hong Kong host and actor English Tang revealed that the veteran actor passed away late last night in the hospital. He had been grappling with heart, vocal cord, and respiratory issues, leading to frequent hospital visits. Tang, who remains in close contact with Johnny’s wife, mentioned that Fok Kit-ching was mentally prepared to face her husband’s passing, but admits recovering from this profound loss will take time. Following the singer’s diagnosis, his wife cared for him devotedly, and in 2022, he formalised their 41-year relationship by marrying her. Reflecting on their relationship, he said, “In our 41 years together, we’ve had one phrase for each year, 41 phrases in total. I have changed my temper now, and we are both in our twenties. She still takes care of me. Regardless of illness or health, a husband and wife should treat each other with respect.”
2. Johnny Wactor
Johnny Wactor, who is best known for his role as Brando Corbin on “General Hospital,” was tragically shot and killed during a suspected catalytic converter theft attempt in downtown L.A. early Saturday morning (25th May). The actor’s talent agent, David Shaul, confirmed his death to Variety on Sunday (26th May), stating, “Johnny Wactor was a spectacular human being. Not just a talented actor committed to his craft but a real moral example to everyone who knew him. Standing for hard work, tenacity, and a never-give-up attitude. In the highs and lows of a challenging profession, he always kept his chin up and kept striving for the best he could be. Our time with Johnny was a privilege we would wish on everyone. He would give you the shirt off his back. After over a decade together, he will leave a hole in our hearts forever.”
Variety included the L.A. Police Department report of the incident stating that “a man was fatally shot by one of three suspects attempting to steal the catalytic converter from his car around 3 a.m. Saturday (25th May) near Pico Boulevard and Hope Street. The man was pronounced dead at a local hospital.”
3. Talat Hussain
Fans in Pakistan mourns the loss of Talat Hussain, one of Pakistan’s most accomplished and celebrated actors, who passed away on Sunday (25th May) at a private hospital following a prolonged illness. He was 83 years old. A veteran in the radio, TV, theatre, and cinema industry, Hussain was known for his roles in serials like “Bandish,” “Karwaan,” “Hawain,” and “Parchaiyan,” as well as films such as “Chiragh Jalta Raha,” “Gumnaam,” “Actor in Law,” and the Indian film “Souten Ki Beti.” Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi President Ahmed Shah confirmed Hussain’s death, remarking, “An acclaimed actor like Talat Hussain is born after centuries.” Hussain’s distinguished career earned him the Pride of Performance award in 1982 and the Sitara-i-Imtiaz in 2021.
Sources: TheStar, Variety, HindustanTimes.
Sabrina Azahar contributed to this article.
