Top Chinese language novelist Chiung Yao dies in apparent suicide

Taiwan experienced a profound loss with the death of Chiung Yao, a prominent romance novelist who passed away in an apparent suicide at her residence in New Taipei City. Her body was found on December 4, 2024, by her secretary, prompting a police investigation that revealed no evidence of foul play. Chiung Yao was well-known for her significant contributions to literature, having authored over 60 novels throughout her career. Among her most recognized works is the popular television drama 'My Fair Princess', which not only captivated audiences but also launched the careers of numerous stars in the Chinese-speaking world. Born in 1938 in Chengdu, China, Yao and her family moved to Taiwan in 1949 following the Chinese Communist Party's rise to power. It was during her teenage years that she began her writing career, leading to an influential presence in the romance genre that has had lasting impacts on popular culture in Taiwan and beyond. In her final days, she left behind a farewell note and a video expressing her feelings, uploaded to social media by her secretary. The loss sparked tributes from actors and fans alike, acknowledging the indelible mark she left on Chinese literature and film. Her passing raises discussions about mental health and well-being in artistic communities, highlighting the need for greater support and dialogue surrounding these issues among creatives and the public.