Legendary romance novelist, screenwriter and producer Chiung Yao passed away on December 4, 2024 at her home in New Taipei City. She was 86 years old. Local authorities later confirmed that her death was caused by carbon monoxide poisoning in what has been ruled an act of suicide.
In a poignant suicide note, Chiung Yao wrote, “This is my wish. Death is an inevitable journey for everyone and also the last ‘great step.’ I don’t want to wait for Heaven to decide my fate. I don’t want to wither and fade. I hope to control my own fate in this final step.”
Chiung Yao, whose real name was Chen Zhe, was born in Chengdu, Sichuan Province in 1938. Widely regarded as the most popular romance fiction writer in the Chinese-speaking world, Chiung Yao wielded immense influence over Chinese pop culture for decades. Over her lifetime, she penned 71 novels, predominantly romances, that often featured protagonists breaking free from societal and familial constraints to pursue true love. Her stories resonated deeply with readers, planting the seeds of modern ideas about love and personal freedom.
Many of her novels were adapted into films and television series – more than 100 in total. Her most influential works include the three-season period drama My Fair Princess (1998).
Social media platforms overflowed with tributes from celebrities, influencers and fans, many sharing personal stories about how Chiung Yao’s works had touched their lives. Her principal message – to boldly pursue idealized, pure love – challenged traditional values and deeply influenced generations of Chinese readers.
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