Taipei, Taiwan — Taiwanese entertainer Blackie Chen, 47, was rushed to National Taiwan University Hospital on Friday evening after experiencing sudden chest discomfort during a PLG exhibition basketball game. Medical examinations confirmed he had suffered an acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack, and he underwent emergency surgery. He has since been transferred to the intensive care unit for close monitoring.
Chen, a former professional basketball player turned celebrity host, was attending the game in support of his team when he began feeling unwell. Bystanders and team staff immediately summoned medical assistance, and he was taken to the hospital within minutes, a critical factor in his timely treatment.
Late Friday night, Chen took to social media to reassure his family, friends, and millions of followers. In a heartfelt post written in Chinese, he expressed gratitude, saying, “All is well, thank you for your concern. Special thanks to the professional and swift treatment and care from National Taiwan University Hospital. Thank you to my family and friends for their immediate concern. Sorry to worry everyone—I will take good care of myself and get back to work as soon as possible. Thanks for everything!”
The sudden health scare has sent shockwaves through Taiwan’s entertainment and sports communities. Chen, known locally by his nickname “Blackie,” is a prominent figure in the Mandopop and variety show scenes, and also serves as a co-founder of the P. League+ (PLG) basketball league, Taiwan’s professional men’s basketball organization.
A Wake-Up Call for Heart Health
Chen’s condition highlights the growing concern about cardiovascular disease among individuals in their 40s and 50s, even those with no prior history of heart issues. According to Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare, heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in the country. Cardiologists note that acute myocardial infarction can occur suddenly, and risk factors such as high stress, irregular sleep, poor diet, and lack of exercise—common in the entertainment industry—are significant contributors.
“The good news is that he reached the hospital quickly and received immediate intervention,” said Dr. Lin Wen-yi, a Taipei-based cardiologist who was not involved in Chen’s care. “Every minute counts during a heart attack. Chen’s case underscores the importance of recognizing symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and cold sweats, and calling for emergency help without delay.”
Chen’s medical team has not released further details about his surgery, but hospital sources indicate he is currently in stable condition and responding well to postoperative care. He is expected to remain under observation for several days.
Outpouring of Support
News of Chen’s hospitalization quickly trended on Taiwanese social media, with fans, fellow celebrities, and athletes sending messages of recovery. Many praised his resilience and positive outlook, while medical professionals urged the public to undergo regular health screenings.
Chen’s wife, former model and actress Christine Fan, has reportedly been by his side since admission. The couple, married since 2011, have two children and remain one of the island’s most beloved showbiz pairs.
As Chen begins his road to recovery, the incident serves as a reminder that heart health is not to be taken for granted. Doctors suggest that adults over 40, particularly those with a family history of heart disease, should schedule annual checkups, monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and maintain a balanced lifestyle.
Fans around the world are now waiting for updates on his condition, hoping that the energetic host who once lit up basketball courts and television screens will make a full—and speedy—return.
