TAIPEI – Yuan Wei-Jen, the iconic Taiwanese music producer and songwriter known as “Xiao Pang Laoshi” (Little Fatty Teacher), passed away Tuesday in Taitung, Taiwan, at the age of 57. A prolific composer who penned mega-hits for Asian music royalty, Yuan’s death follows years of debilitating health struggles stemming from a serious brain injury sustained in 2018.
Yuan Wei-Jen became a pillar of Mandopop, leaving an indelible mark on the industry through his profound songwriting and authoritative role as a reality television judge. His portfolio included defining chart-toppers such as Faye Wong’s anthems “Jhih Mi Buh Huei” (Obsessed and Unrepentant) and “Xuàn Mù” (Merry-Go-Round), as well as Na Ying’s classics “Zhen Fu” (Conquer) and “Meng Xǐng Le” (Waking Up from a Dream). He also gained widespread fame as a judge on the influential singing competition series, One Million Star.
Health Crisis Began with Fall
The respected musician’s health took a critical turn in October 2018 when he suffered an accidental fall in Shanghai, leading to a serious cerebral hemorrhage. During his subsequent hospitalization, medical examinations also revealed a benign brain tumor. While he eventually regained consciousness and returned to Taipei for extended rehabilitation, a second accidental fall at his Taitung home in October 2020 necessitated further emergency intervention.
Following the second incident, Yuan was classified as being in a persistent vegetative state, remaining unconscious and bedridden. His condition deteriorated late last year, with news reports indicating he was hospitalized again in late November 2023 due to severe lung inflammation and decreased urine output, underscoring the precarious state of his health leading up to his passing. Throughout his period of illness, his elder sister dedicatedly served as his primary caregiver.
Yuan’s life included a 14-year marriage to Lu Yuan-Qi, which ended in divorce in 2016. The couple shares a son and a daughter.
Tributes Pour In From Grieving Colleagues
News of Yuan’s death triggered an outpouring of grief from across the entertainment industry, highlighting his profound personal and creative impact.
Na Ying, whose career was significantly shaped by Yuan’s compositions, released a solemn statement through her studio. “Thank you for bringing so much wonderful music,” the statement read. “May you continue to play the guitar and sing in another world. Xiao Pang, rest in peace.”
Ella Chen of the iconic girl group S.H.E., who once recorded a song titled “Listen to Yuan Wei-Jen Play the Guitar,” expressed immense sorrow and deep gratitude for his mentorship.
“Xiao Pang Laoshi hold a very important place in my heart,” Ella said tearfully. “I hope he finds good rest, that his soul is peaceful, and he is no longer limited by his physical body, continuing to do what he loves in the universe. Everyone must remember him.”
Fellow veteran television personality Matilda Tao, who worked closely with Yuan on One Million Star, conveyed her profound sadness, describing his passing as a “double blow” after attending another memorial event earlier the same day. Tao confirmed the deep friendship between them, recalling how she and other friends had rallied to provide financial support for his medical expenses and even assisted with his children’s tuition during his illness, a testament to the enduring bonds forged over years of collaboration.
Yuan Wei-Jen’s passing closes a significant chapter in regional music history. His extensive musical catalog will continue to serenade listeners, ensuring his inventive spirit and lyrical genius endure despite his physical absence.
