HK pop singer Coco Lee dies at 48 after long struggle with depression

In a statement from her sister, Nancy Lee, it is said that Coco Lee (pic) had been suffering from depression for several years. Photo: Coco Lee/Facebook

Hong Kong-American singer Coco Lee has died. She was 48.

In a statement from her sister, Nancy Lee, on Weibo today (July 5), it is said that Coco had been suffering from depression for several years.

After a prolonged struggle against this illness, her condition deteriorated rapidly and she took her own life at her home on July 2, according to Nancy.

The singer was immediately rushed to the hospital,and despite the medical team’s efforts to resuscitate her, Coco was pronounced dead today. Several Chinese media in Malaysia, Hong Kong and China have also reported Coco's passing.

In her post, Nancy said that 2023 marks the 30th anniversary of Coco’s singing career.

According to her, Coco has won international acclaim with her top-selling songs and powerful live performances.

Coco Lee has released over 15 albums, garnering tens of millions in sales. Photo: AP

She added: “Coco is also known to have worked tirelessly to open up a new world for Chinese singers in the international music scene, and she went all out to shine for the Chinese. We are proud of her!”

In her post, Nancy also expressed feeling grateful and honoured to have such an excellent and outstanding sister.

“We know now she has gone to a happier place and no longer suffers from depression; we trust God has her best interest looked after!

“Now, our greatest responsibility is to take good care of our elderly mother. I hope everyone will pray for this poor old lady and allow us time and privacy in healing,” she wrote.

Coco Lee married Bruce Rockowitz in 2011. Photo: AP

Coco released her first solo album, Love From Now On, in 1994.

According to Hong Kong daily The Standard, the artiste has released over 15 albums, garnering tens of millions in sales.

In 2016, Coco was crowned the champion of the fourth season of Chinese reality show, I Am A Singer.

She is also known to voice Fa Mulan in the Mandarin version of Disney’s Mulan (1998).

In 2011, Coco married Canadian businessman Bruce Rockowitz, who has two daughters from his previous marriage. There were rumours the couple had split but Coco did not address the rumours directly.

Those contemplating suicide can reach out to the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service (03-2935 9935/ 014-322 3392); Talian Kasih (15999/ 019-261 5999 on WhatsApp); Jakim’s family, social and community care centre (011-1959 8214 on WhatsApp); or Befrienders Kuala Lumpur (03-7627 2929/ email [e-mail]/ befrienders centres in malaysia).