The entertainment industry in Asia has lost one of its brightest stars after news of Hong Kong-born singer Coco Lee's death was confirmed on Wednesday (July 5). She was 48.
Lee, who's known for her timeless Mandarin, English and Cantonese songs, died in a Hong Kong hospital after taking her own life on Sunday (July 2), her family said in a statement.
In the wake of her passing, many celebrities including Singaporean singer JJ Lin, Taiwanese artistes Jay Chou and Angela Chang have taken to social media to express their grief.
Earlier this morning, Hong Kong action star Jackie Chan uploaded a photo of him with Lee on his Weibo account.
"Your voice, dance and bright smile have influenced so many people. You have contributed so much to this world.
"Another star has appeared in the sky, and I wish there won't be any more suffering or pain for you. Rest in peace."
Chan worked alongside Lee in the Mandarin version of Disney's Mulan (1998), where they voiced General Li Shang and Mulan, respectively.
Meanwhile, acclaimed Taiwanese filmmaker Ang Lee – who helmed Life Of Pi (2012) and Hulk (2003) – expressed shock at the singer's death.
As reported by HK01, Ang's statement read: "I was shocked to hear the news about Coco Lee. She was such a cheerful and lovely person."
Ang added that he had an enjoyable experience working with Lee, who sang A Love Before Time for the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000), which he directed.
The esteemed filmmaker also recalled the time Lee performed the track at the 73rd Academy Awards, when it was nominated for Best Original Song.
"Before the Oscars, Coco said, 'I am the first Asian to sing at the Oscars, so I must sing with all my might!' I really do miss her," Ang added.
Lee released her first solo album, Love From Now On, in 1994 and has sold tens of millions of albums worldwide.
In 2011, Lee married Canadian businessman Bruce Rockowitz, who has two daughters from his previous marriage. There were rumours the couple had split but the singer 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 sam@befrienders.org.my/ befrienders centres in Malaysia).
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