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Actor Wang Kai's memorial service: Xie Cheng-jun recalls 'final embrace,' says he smiled and called Ma You-hsing 'Dad' two days before passing

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Outcome reported
  • Taiwanese actor Wang Kai (Wang Jian-lung) passed away suddenly on July 26 at the age of 43.
  • His memorial service was held on August 11, attended by many friends from the entertainment industry.
  • Friends remembered him as a dedicated actor who often concealed his personal struggles, prompting calls for greater attention to mental health.

The Taiwanese entertainment industry is mourning the sudden death of actor Wang Kai (born Wang Jian-lung), who passed away on July 26 at his rented residence at the age of 43. His memorial service took place on August 11 in Taipei, drawing numerous colleagues and friends from the acting community.

I always told him I thought you were too thin. I thought you should eat more meat and exercise a little.

— DayaRecalling her last conversations with Wang Kai about his physical well-being.

Friends like actress Big Tooth (Daya) and actors Ma You-hsing and Hsieh Cheng-chun shared their grief and fond memories. Daya recalled Wang Kai as a diligent actor with whom she shared many happy moments, noting that he sometimes struggled with lengthy scripts. She mentioned that she had advised him to gain weight and exercise, as she felt he looked too thin.

When I saw him, I felt he looked a bit more haggard when he returned to 'The Taste of Life,' but his complexion was still okay. He saw me, smiled, hugged me, and cheered me on.

— Ma You-hsingDescribing his last encounter with Wang Kai before the actor's death.

Ma You-hsing, who played Wang Kai's father in the drama "Hand in Hand," expressed deep sorrow, describing Wang Kai as outwardly cheerful but inwardly prone to suppressing his emotions and pressures. Ma recounted meeting Wang Kai two days before his death, noting he seemed a bit haggard but still offered smiles and encouragement, calling him "Dad" as usual. The news of his death left Ma profoundly shocked, and he urged greater emphasis on mental health support and seeking help.

When you have something on your mind, find some close people or a psychologist to talk to, and don't suppress your feelings for too long.

— Ma You-hsingAppealing for people to seek help for mental health issues.

Hsieh Cheng-chun, a friend of over a decade, shared a warm reunion hug with Wang Kai when he returned to film "The Taste of Life." He described Wang Kai as someone who loved to laugh and be lively, despite facing difficulties in his personal life and career. Hsieh expressed hope that Wang Kai would find peace and happiness in the afterlife, free from worldly troubles. The friends' tributes underscored Wang Kai's kindness and the hidden burdens he carried, leading to heartfelt appeals for prioritizing mental well-being within the industry and beyond.

He must be very happy to see everyone come to send him off on this journey.

— Hsieh Cheng-chunReflecting on the large turnout of friends at Wang Kai's memorial service.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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