Taipei, Taiwan — Former basketball star Chen Chien-chou, widely known by his nickname “Blackie,” has been released from the hospital following emergency treatment for an acute myocardial infarction. In a social media update on Wednesday afternoon, the 47-year-old confirmed he is recovering at home and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support.
“I have followed the medical team’s instructions and have been successfully discharged to recuperate at home. Thank you for everyone’s concern and positive energy during this time,” Chen wrote in an Instagram story. He also extended special thanks to the medical staff at National Taiwan University Hospital for their dedicated care.
Chen’s health scare began earlier this week when he was rushed to the hospital for emergency surgery. While the procedure was deemed successful, the former player’s hospital stay soon took an unexpected turn when photos he shared on social media of visiting friends sparked public criticism.
The images showed Chen in his hospital bed surrounded by his wife, singer Christine Fan, fellow musician Wang Leehom, and close friends including Tang Chih-chung. Netizens quickly questioned how the group of five could all be permitted inside what appeared to be an intensive care unit, citing standard visitation restrictions.
National Taiwan University Hospital responded with a statement urging patients and families to follow facility regulations to maintain a safe medical environment, without directly addressing the incident.
In a follow-up post, Chen addressed the backlash head-on, offering a sincere apology for what he called a moment of carelessness.
“I would like to express my most sincere apologies for violating hospital regulations regarding photography inside the ward,” he wrote. “Because of my personal oversight in failing to strictly follow the hospital’s guidelines, I caused difficulties for the NTU Hospital team’s management and raised public concerns. I deeply regret occupying valuable medical resources and public attention. I am truly sorry.”
He continued, “Thank you all for your understanding and forbearance. From now on, I will follow the doctor’s orders, rest well, and look forward to returning to the basketball court in good health. Basketball never stops.”
Beyond his recovery, Chen is reportedly navigating significant turbulence in his professional life. According to Taiwanese media, the former league star — who serves as vice chairman of the P. League+ — is facing mounting pressure related to ongoing merger discussions between PLG and the T1 League. Sources suggest some team owners have grown dissatisfied with his leadership, with speculation that his position could be in jeopardy.
Chen’s dual battles — with his health and his basketball legacy — highlight the intense scrutiny faced by public figures in Taiwan’s sports entertainment world. For now, the man who helped popularize basketball in Taiwan is focused on one thing: getting back on his feet.
