Just days before her passing, Chiung Yao completed a poignant work, 'Memories of My Late Husband,' reflecting her ongoing grief for her late husband, Ping Hsin-tao, who passed away in 2019.

Her notable works include the beloved 'My Fair Princess,' which significantly boosted the careers of stars like Ruby Lin, Zhao Wei, and Fan Bingbing.

Chiung Yao's adaptations reached a diverse audience and included collaborations with major entertainment figures, solidifying her legacy in the literary and entertainment worlds.

Chiung Yao, a renowned Taiwanese romance novelist, was found dead in her home in New Taipei City on December 4, 2024, in an apparent suicide at the age of 86.

Her secretary discovered Chiung Yao unconscious after following her instructions to check on her, leading to the confirmation of her death by emergency responders.

According to reports, Chiung Yao left a note expressing her desire to control her death rather than succumb to the frailties of old age, stating, 'I am a spark and I burned with all my strength. Now, before the flames extinguish, I choose this path.'

In recent years, she had been less active and made headlines in 2017 due to a public dispute with her stepchildren regarding the care of her ill husband.

Emergency services reported that she took her own life, as stated by Taiwan's Central News Agency.

Celebrated as the 'queen' of Chinese romance literature, many of her works have been adapted for television and film, showcasing her lasting influence.

Her son revealed that she expressed feelings of longing and sadness in her last written work, highlighting her struggles with loss and unresolved feelings regarding their relationship.

Born Chen Che in 1938 in Sichuan, China, Chiung Yao began her writing career at 18 and authored over 60 novels, many of which were adapted into successful movies and TV series.

Chiung Yao's novels are particularly cherished by women for their lyrical prose and relatable narratives, despite receiving some criticism for melodramatic elements.