Rock Legend Chao Wei-tsai Dies at 61, Earns Record 'Oldest Newcomer' Nod at Golden Bells for Acting Debut

Chao Wei-tsai, a legendary figure in rock music, has died at the age of 61. His passing comes shortly after he received two nominations for the 60th Golden Bell Awards for his first-ever acting role in the drama "The Outlaw Doctor." Chao's nomination for "Most Potential Newcomer in a Drama Program" made him the oldest newcomer in Golden Bell history.

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I spent a lot of time thinking about this character, he does a lot of things that are in the 'gray area.'

Chao portrayed "Zuo Jiaqun," a seemingly helpful medical equipment dealer involved in organ trafficking and human smuggling, in "The Outlaw Doctor." His girlfriend and manager, Vicky, reportedly threatened to leave him five times to convince him to take on the role, which marked his sole foray into television.

To prepare for the complex character, which required him to speak Mandarin, English, and Cantonese, Chao dedicated significant effort to understanding the role's moral ambiguity. He even enlisted the help of Chow Yun-fat's agent to improve his Cantonese. Crew members were astonished by the detailed notes he took on his script, with Chao humorously recounting how he'd meticulously write down every word of dialogue. He recalled being thrown into the deep end, practicing Cantonese lines after expecting to focus on English.

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I don't know if I should thank the director, I spent a lot of time memorizing English lines, and as soon as I arrived, the director told me to speak Cantonese. It felt like being thrown into a furnace, directly told to act.

During a celebration for the drama last October, Chao appeared vibrant and enthusiastic, describing his acting experience as discovering a "beautiful, wonderful, and vast world." He expressed joy in meeting the cast and crew, feeling welcomed into their realm.

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Entering the world of acting for the first time, I discovered it's a beautiful, wonderful, and vast world. The happiest thing is that I had the chance to meet you all and feel your world.

Tragically, the drama's ending saw Chao's character drive off to America. At the celebration, producer Tang Shengrong jokingly asked if he'd forgotten the plot's foreshadowing of his departure. Co-star Yang Yizhan eagerly asked about a potential second season. These lighthearted plans for a continuation are now overshadowed by Chao's real-life passing in Hawaii, leaving behind a profound sense of loss and regret for his fans and colleagues.

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We have season 2 right?