Fans and Loved Ones Attend Coco Lee's Funeral Held in Hong Kong
Hundreds gathered to pay their respects, say their goodbyes and honour the memory of the late Mandopop singer.
News of Hong Kong born, American singer Coco Lee's passing at the age of 48 shocked fans all over the world early this July. Lee had taken her life after a long battle with depression on July 5. Yesterday, the Mandopop star was laid to rest in a funeral procession that was opened to the public after a private service for family and friends. Almost one thousand fans gathered to pay their respects and pay tribute to Lee with many lined up outside the funeral home located in the eastern part of Hong Kong island.
The procession was also livestreamed on her sister, Nancy Lee's YouTube channel alongside other media outlets reporting and streaming the memorial service to thousands tuning in. Regional and local celebrity friends also attended the service dressed in black, including singers Jenny Tseng and Elva Hsiao who delivered moving eulogies.
The livestream was also spliced with pre-recorded video tributes by over 40 celebrities and friends who shared their fondest memories of the singer. Local stars JJ Lin and Stefanie Sun were part of that tribute alongside stars like Jackie Chan, Jolin Tsai, Andy Lau, Aaron Kwok, Karen Mok, Wang Leehom and more. The latter recounting how he, "will forever remember that it was Coco who bought me my first cup of Starbucks.”
Award-winning director Ang Lee also paid tribute, recalling a moment with the late singer when she performed the theme song of his movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon at the Oscars in 2001. “She looked at me and said cutely, ‘I’m the first Asian to stand on this stage, I will do my very, very best to sing’," he shared, "Her adorable image is still present in my heart."
The memorial service was held for two days, with yesterday being the final day. Jonathan Serbin, co-president of Warner Music Asia was present at the service saying in his eulogy, "Coco Lee was a true legend in the music industry but just as importantly, she was kind, compassionate and a great friend and mentor to everyone in the world including everyone in this room."
