Coco Lee at Hainan Island International Film Festival in 2020Getty Images
Hong Kong singer-songwriter Coco Lee passed away at the age of 48 after attempting suicide, as confirmed by a Facebook post from her sisters. Lee was known for her rendition of the Mandarin version of “Reflection” from the Disney movie “Mulan” in 1998. She also became the first Chinese American to perform at the Oscars, singing “A Love Before Time” from “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.” Her sisters mentioned that Lee had been in a coma since her suicide attempt over the weekend, revealing that she had been battling depression for years, with her condition worsening in recent months.
Born in Hong Kong in 1975, Lee moved to the United States where she attended school before establishing a successful career in Asia as a pop singer. She released albums in Mandarin, Cantonese, and English, and was globally signed by Sony Music, making her the first Chinese singer to achieve this milestone. Additionally, Lee ventured into acting, appearing in several films and serving as a judge on Chinese talent shows.
In 2001, Lee’s performance of “A Love Before Time” earned an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song. She married Canadian businessman Bruce Rockowitz in 2011 and had two stepdaughters from the marriage.
For those seeking help or support, the Facebook post provided resources and urged individuals to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.
#CocoLee #RememberingCocoLee #MusicLegend #MulanSinger #CrouchingTigerHiddenDragon