Television host moved to tears at Taipei book event

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Kevin Tsai (蔡康永), a renowned Taiwanese television host and writer, as well as a close friend of the late Barbie Hsu (大S), broke down in tears at the Taipei International Book Exhibition (台北國際書展) on Thursday (Feb. 6).

He struggled to speak as he discussed the protagonist of a book but was encouraged to continue on by the audience with applause.

Dressed in a white shirt, black jacket, and black cap, Tsai attended the press conference themed "People with Special Meanings" (有特殊意義的人們) as a guest speaker to speak with Japanese author Banana Yoshimoto.

As he read from Yoshimoto's work, he began to cry, possibly recalling memories of Hsu. Tsai shared that the book taught him, "Even if we miss someone to the point of madness, it's not shameful to do crazy things to remember them." 

Tsai and Hsu shared a close bond, often collaborating on the show "Kangsi Coming" (康熙來了) with Hsu's sister, Dee Hsu (小S). Upon hearing of Barbie Hsu's passing, Tsai expressed his sorrow on Facebook, writing, "I will imagine you living well. Yes, I will hold on to this thought until I can no longer."

Barbie Hsu passed away from pneumonia complications following the flu during a trip to Japan for the Lunar New Year. The Hsu family opted not to hold a farewell ceremony, respecting Barbie Hsu's preference for privacy. Dee urged those who miss her sister to keep her memory in their hearts, expressing gratitude for the love shown toward her sister.