The Chinese entertainment industry mourns the loss of a legend after influential novelist Chiung Yao (琼瑶) passed away at age 86. The writer, whose real name was Chen Che (陈喆), reportedly died at her home in New Taipei City on 4th December 2024 (Wednesday).
It’s believed the writer took her own life as her 63-year-old son had mentioned a suicide note. According to reports, Chiung Yao’s son then asked her secretary to check on the writer. Upon reaching the home, the secretary found the novelist unconscious and called emergency services. Firefighters later arrived at her home and found Chiung Yao unresponsive. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
News outlets later release the contents of Chiung Yao’s letter. In the letter, the late writer reportedly wrote that she wanted to control when and how she passes, adding she wanted to leave “gracefully”. The public figure allegedly suffered from many physical ailments, but it’s unclear what the ailments were. However, it’s believed that Chiung Yao had suffered depression following the death of her husband in 2019.
Chiung Yao’s career as a novelist began in 1963 when she published her first novel, “Outside The Window (窗外)”, later adapted into the 1973 film starring Brigitte Lin (林青霞). In her decades-long career, Chiung Yao wrote 65 novels and worked on screenplays. Her most notable work was the 1990s drama series, “My Fair Princess (還珠格格)”, which became a massive success and launched the careers of stars like Ruby Lin (林心如) and Fan Bingbing (范冰冰).
Many celebrities have since paid tribute to the late novelist following the news of her death. Speaking to new outlets, actress Brigette Lin said she’s heartbroken over the news. She added that she regretted not making arrangements to meet the novelist before her passing. Brigette is a known collaborator of Chiung Yao’s, having acted in many movies adapted from the writer’s novels.
Stars from “My Fair Princess” also took to social media to mourn Chiung Yao’s passing. Actress Fan Bingbing shared on her Weibo account, “Burned warmly and flew away gracefully. Thank you for lighting me up. May you always be happy in heaven.” Meanwhile, actor Huang Xiaoming (黄晓明) paid tribute to the late writer, recalling the time the two worked together on the drama. He also praised Chiung Yao’s works and thanked her for her guidance.
It’s believed there will be no memorial service for the late writer to respect her final request. We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of Chiung Yao, and may they find solace during these difficult times.
Sources: China Press (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6), The Star, Weibo (1)(2)
