Pauperized artist Tien Lu-lu refuses union's help, citing 'integrity'

Veteran Taiwanese artist Tien Lu-lu, 68, is facing severe financial hardship, reportedly living on a monthly subsidy of NT$20,000 and struggling to afford basic necessities like toilet paper. A recent report by charity influencer "Brother Bin Bin" revealed Tien lives alone in Taichung and has been ill with a gastrointestinal cold for two weeks, leading her to cut up old clothes for use as tissues.

The situation gained wider attention when Tien appeared on a livestream, tearfully refuting accusations of "pretending to be pitiful to scam money." She asserted her independence, stating, "Even if you give me money, I won't take it. I'm not here to beg."

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Even if you give me money, I won't take it. I'm not here to beg.

The Performers Union, led by its chairperson Cao Yu-ting, expressed regret and offered assistance. Cao revealed that the union had tried to contact Tien multiple times, even arranging performance opportunities, but Tien has been evasive. When Cao finally managed to reach Tien by phone, the artist immediately hung up upon hearing her name.

Despite the rejection, Cao maintained a positive attitude, commenting, "Okay, that's good. She has integrity." Tien had previously expressed dissatisfaction with the union over unpaid insurance premiums. She continues to support herself by selling turtle jelly online and has been taking antidepressants for nearly 20 years, emphasizing her self-reliance and refusal of handouts.

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Okay, that's good. She has integrity.