Many content creators and public figures use live streams to promote things, talk to fans – and even to apologise. However, this may be one of the rare moments that someone used live streaming to say their goodbyes before serving a prison sentence.
Kurtis Lau (劉偉健), known professionally as Toyz, is a YouTuber and retired professional gamer. While the Taiwan-based esports personality may have had a successful career, he unfortunately had issues with the law. In 2021, Kurtis was arrested on suspicion of trafficking marijuana and subsequently sentenced to four years and two months in prison. He did try to appeal the sentence but was unsuccessful. Kurtis finally began his prison sentence earlier today (16th May, Thursday).
However, before serving his sentence, the Hong Kong-born went live on his YouTube channel on 15th May (Wednesday) to say his goodbyes to his fans. During the hour-long stream, Kurtis appeared pensive before bursting into tears as he spoke with fans about various things, like his future and what would happen with his channel during his absence. According to the YouTuber, he will leave his social media to his partners and girlfriend, who will use it to update fans about his current status while in prison.
Kurtis also invited the viewers to “have a drink of tea” with him, perhaps to apologise for his wrongdoings and bid farewell without regrets. He said, “Thank you for liking me. (But) If you hate me, I will buy you a drink, and we will reconcile.” The former pro gamer also gave out 2,300 free drinks to viewers in Taiwan, which is redeemable through a QR code. The stream has amassed over 400,000 views as of reporting, with many fans using the comment section to show support and say their goodbyes to the public figure.
While we can’t deny that Kurtis has made a grave mistake and has to pay the price for his actions, we can see that he is remorseful for what he did. All in all, we wish the best for him and may he come out of prison a changed man.
Watch Kurtis’ live stream below:
Sources: YouTube, China Press
