Huang Wen Yong. -File photo taken from channelnewsasia.com
SINGAPORE: Veteran MediaCorp artist Huang Wenyong, died on Saturday, Channel News Asia reported.
He was 60.
In a statement released to MediaCorp’s artiste management team, his family said Huang died earlier on Saturday in hospital.
The media company is mourning the passing of one of its most beloved and endearing actors.
Fann Wong, Aileen Tan, Pierre Png, Ian Fang, Tay Ping Hui and a host of other MediaCorp stars have expressed their sadness over Huang’s death soon after the news broke.
“I am really sad! My eyes are wet! He is the legend!Big Brother Wen Yong! Goodbye!” tweeted Ian Fang Saturday evening.
“I have worked with Huang on numerous occasions. I learned a lot from him every time we worked together. He takes acting seriously, and never hesitates to guide the newcomers. He is a senior I respect,” said Singapore actor Tay Ping Hui, who starred alongside Huang in the drama “Rescue 995”, in a micro blog post that same evening.
Tay also added: “Huang Wen Yong’s departure is a great loss to the Singapore television industry. Rest in peace big brother Wen Yong. You will be forever in our hearts.”
Public concern for his health has been growing since he appeared visibly thin and haggard onstage at the “30th Drama Anniversary Show” which aired on Channel 8 last year.
Huang had previously revealed that he lost approximately seven kilograms in an interview with xinmsn, and suffered from stomach flu and digestion problems while filming for the Channel 8 drama “It’s a Wonderful Life” since September last year.
Most recently, the 60-year-old took to MediaCorp’s online portal Toggle early last month to reassure and thank his fans and friends for their concern and support.
“I am well. All my friends who are concerned about me; please do not worry,” said Huang in the audio clip.
“During this time, I feel sorry for not being able to respond, despite receiving so many well wishes. Sorry, and thank you everyone.
“Please don’t forget to take care of your bodies everyone. I will try my best as well. Hopefully, I’ll be able to return to work, shoot more great shows and entertain everyone,” Huang added.
The veteran star joined the then Singapore Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) in 1980 and was one of the early pioneers of local Chinese drama.
To date, he has acted in over 100 Chinese dramas and sitcoms, including “The Seletar Robbery”, “Lobang King” and “Joys of Life”.
In his over 30-year career with MediaCorp, he has won numerous awards including “Special Achievement Award” in Star Awards 1997.
Huang is also in the running for the “Top 10 Favourite Male Artistes Award” in this year’s Star Awards.
SOURCE: CHANNEL NEWS ASIA