TAIPEI – Chen Chien-chou, a prominent Taiwanese basketball executive and husband of singer Fan Fan, underwent emergency surgery on Sunday after suffering an acute myocardial infarction. The 45-year-old, widely known by his nickname “Blackie,” is now recovering in the intensive care unit of National Taiwan University Hospital in Taipei.
Chen, who serves as vice president of the Professional League of Taiwan (PLG), experienced sudden chest discomfort while attending a PLG friendship game on the afternoon of September 15. He was accompanied by colleagues to the hospital, where doctors confirmed a heart attack and immediately performed surgical intervention, according to his manager.
In a statement released to media, Chen’s manager said the executive’s condition has stabilized.
“Mr. Chen Chien-chou felt unwell while watching the PLG friendship match and went to the hospital immediately. After evaluation by doctors, he was diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction and underwent surgical treatment,” the manager said. “He is currently under the professional care of the medical team at National Taiwan University Hospital, with a good recovery and resting comfortably. Thank you for everyone’s concern.”
Chen’s wife, singer Fan Fan, whose real name is Fan Wei-chi, rushed to the hospital upon learning of the incident and has remained by his side.
Chen is one of the most recognizable figures in Taiwanese basketball. He retired from a professional playing career in 2000 and later became a league executive, helping to promote the sport across the island. He married Fan in 2011, and the couple has two sons.
Heart Attack Risks in Younger Adults
While heart attacks are often associated with older populations, cardiologists note that acute myocardial infarction can occur in middle-aged adults, particularly those with underlying risk factors such as hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking or a family history of heart disease. Stress and sedentary lifestyle habits can also elevate risk.
The incident has drawn widespread attention in Taiwan, where fans have flooded social media with messages wishing Chen a speedy recovery. PLG officials have not announced any changes to the league’s upcoming schedule.
Medical experts advise that anyone experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or discomfort radiating to the arm or jaw should seek emergency care immediately. For Chen, prompt medical attention was likely critical in minimizing damage to the heart muscle, health professionals said.
Hospital officials have not disclosed a timeline for Chen’s discharge from the intensive care unit. His manager said the family appreciates the public’s concern and requests privacy during this recovery period.
