Over the weekend, the Chinese online community was shocked by the sudden death of popular gamer and streamer Fat Cat (胖猫). The public figure was only 21 when he jumped off the bridge at the Chongqing Yangtze River last April. However, more shocking than Fat Cat’s death was what led up to it.
Allegedly, the gamer took his life following a break-up with his 27-year-old girlfriend, Tan Zhu (谭竹). According to reports, Fat Cat would financially support Tan Zhu, sending most of his money to the girl. As a gamer and streamer, Fat Cat supposedly only makes RMB20 (approx. RM13) per game but has sent over RMB500,000 (approx. RM329,000) to his girlfriend to fund her daily expenses and flower shop business. He even transferred RMB 66,000 (approx. RM43,000) to Tan Zhu before jumping off the bridge.
To support his girlfriend, the 21-year-old had apparently lived an extremely frugal lifestyle. Fat Cat’s sister shared more details about her brother and his relationship with Tan Zhu, alleging that the girlfriend is a gold digger who purposely used Fat Cat for monetary gain while being emotionally abusive towards him. She even chastised Tan Zhu for leading her brother on, hinting that the girl never had feelings for the late gamer.
Following the sister’s post, many netizens have bombarded Tan Zhu’s social media, condemning her for her treatment of Fat Cat that drove him to his death. The 27-year-old filmed an apology video, but netizens criticised her for wearing shorts and knee high socks. She then refilmed the apology video with more modest clothing – but netizens remain sceptical of her genuineness.
Meanwhile, many locals have visited the bridge where Fat Cat took his life. They also placed takeout food and drinks there as a tribute to honour Fat Cat’s wish to eat “expensive” fast food and takeout instead of cheap veggie meals, which he consumed regularly to save money to send to Tan Zhu.
Unfortunately, some businesses had purposely delivered empty bags or switched drinks with plain water after learning it was ordered as a sacrifice. This issue led to more backlash from netizens, but some brands have since apologised.
We extend our condolences to Fat Cat’s family for their loss. May the late gamer rest in peace.
