Disney Star Coco Lee Dies by Suicide at 48

Coco Lee, a Hong Kong-born singer and songwriter who had a highly successful career in Asia and the US, has died by suicide at age 48, her elder sisters Carol and Nancy Lee said in a Facebook post.

iexlusivenews reports that Lee was famous for voicing the female warrior Mulan in the Mandarin-language version of the Disney movie of the same name, and performing the Oscar-nominated song A Love Before Time from the film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.

She was widely regarded as one of the most influential and versatile singers in Asia, with a powerful voice that earned her comparisons to Mariah Carey.

How Coco Lee Died

Lee’s sisters revealed that she had been suffering from depression for several years, and that her condition deteriorated drastically over the last few months. “Although Coco sought professional help and did her best to fight depression, sadly that demon inside of her took the better of her,” they wrote. “On 2 July, she committed suicide at home and was sent to the hospital. Despite the best efforts of the hospital team to rescue and treat her from her coma, she finally passed away on 5 July, 2023.”

They added that Lee had faced major life-changing hurdles in 2022, which was an “incredibly difficult year” for her. Lee had undergone pelvic and thigh surgery after triggering an old leg injury during dance practice late last year. She also released her latest single Tragic on Valentine’s Day this year.

Lee’s death has shocked and saddened her fans and peers around the world, who remembered her as a talented and cheerful artist who brought joy and inspiration to many. Her death has also sparked public discussion about depression and mental health issues, especially among celebrities who face immense pressure and scrutiny.

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Coco Lee’s Career Highlights

Lee was born in Hong Kong in 1975, and moved to the US with her family when she was nine years old. She began singing at a young age, and won several singing contests in both Hong Kong and the US. She signed with Sony Music Taiwan in 1994, and released her debut Mandarin album Love From Now On, which was a huge success.

She went on to release more than 20 albums in Mandarin, Cantonese and English, selling over 10 million records worldwide. She also collaborated with international stars such as Lionel Richie, Julio Iglesias, Wyclef Jean and Kelly Price. She performed at prestigious events such as the Michael Jackson & Friends benefit concert in South Korea in 1999, and the Academy Awards in Hollywood in 2001.

Lee was also a pioneer of cultural exchange between Asia and the West, bridging the gap between different languages and markets. She was the first Chinese singer to perform at the Oscars, singing A Love Before Time from Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. She was also the first Chinese singer to sign with Walt Disney Records, voicing Mulan in Mandarin and singing Reflection for the soundtrack.

Lee was also a judge on TV talent shows such as Chinese Idol and The Voice of China, where she mentored and encouraged aspiring singers. She was widely respected and admired by her colleagues and fans for her professionalism, passion and generosity.

How Fans Reacted to Coco Lee’s Death

Lee’s fans expressed their grief and condolences on social media, using hashtags such as #RIPCocoLee #CocoLeeForever #ThankYouCocoLee #WeLoveYouCocoLee. Many shared their favorite songs and memories of Lee, as well as messages of support for her family.

Some fans also shared their own struggles with depression or suicidal thoughts, and thanked Lee for inspiring them with her music and courage. Some urged others to seek help if they were feeling hopeless or alone.

Some celebrities also paid tribute to Lee on their platforms, such as Usher, who wrote: “I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of Coco Lee. She was a beautiful soul with an amazing voice. I had the honor of working with her on Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. She will be missed by many.” Other stars who expressed their sorrow included Mariah Carey, Kelly Clarkson, Leona Lewis, John Legend, Alicia Keys, Jackie Chan and Jet Li.

How Coco Lee’s Family Said Goodbye

Lee’s sisters said that they were grateful for the love and support they received from Lee’s friends and fans during this difficult time. They also asked for privacy and respect as they grieved for their beloved sister.

They said that they hoped that people would remember Lee for her trademark bright smile, honesty and kindness, and continue to share her music and joy with others. They also urged anyone who was struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts to seek help and not give up hope.

“CoCo always said that music is her life,” they wrote. “We hope that her music will live on forever in your hearts.”