Chinese actor and singer Yu Menglong has passed away at the age of 37, leading to an outpouring of grief from fans throughout Asia over the sudden loss of one of the nation’s most famous television personalities.
Yu, known for his role in the popular drama Eternal Love, which amassed over 50 billion views in just 18 months, reportedly died on September 11 by falling to his death.
His management team confirmed the tragic news on Weibo, expressing deep sadness: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear Menglong, who fell to his death on Sept 11. Authorities have ruled out foul play. We hope he finds peace, and his loved ones find strength.”
Rumors started circulating earlier when a paparazzi account claimed Yu had died in Beijing after falling from a height at a friend’s residence.
According to the now-deleted post, Yu had been with “five or six” friends before retiring to a guest room around 2 am and locking the door. When his friends couldn’t find him the next morning as they were leaving at 6 am, they discovered his body on the ground floor. A resident walking their dog alerted the police, who confirmed no criminal activity and are conducting investigations.
Yu Menglong’s rise to fame began over a decade ago when he appeared on the talent show Super Boy in 2010, though he was eliminated. He returned in 2013, securing a top-ten spot, launching his successful career in the entertainment industry. In 2013, he released his debut single Just Nice, showcasing his talents as both a singer and actor.
His breakthrough came in 2015 when he played the 9th prince in the web drama Go Princess Go, followed by the release of his first album, Toy, that same year. He gained immense popularity in 2017 for his role as Bai Zhen in Eternal Love, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in Chinese television and expanding his fanbase internationally via streaming services like Netflix.
After the success of Eternal Love, Yu continued to excel, taking on roles in productions such as Xuan-Yuan Sword: Han Cloud, Legend of the White Snake, and Who’s Not Rebellious Youth. His last two web dramas, The Love Lasts Two Minds and The Moon Brightens For You, were released in 2020, marking the end of his on-screen career.
Known not only for his acting skills but also for his amiable public persona, Yu garnered a reputation for his versatility and on-screen charm, earning praise from fans. His passing has triggered an outpouring of sorrow on Chinese social media, with tributes pouring in from those who grew up watching his work.
As investigations into the circumstances of his death continue, authorities have emphasized there is no indication of foul play.