The Disney family took a heavy blow recently with the news of the tragic passing of Asian-American actress Coco Lee. Widely recognized as the Mandarin voice actress for heroine Fa Mulan from the animated classic movie, Lee sadly ended her own life after battling depression and mental health for countless years. While many fans expressed shock and sadness, one important person offered her own emotional tribute to Coco Lee. Ming-Na Wen, the beloved English voice actress for Mulan, had nothing but admiration for her deceased counterpart.
Coco Lee Passes Away
Coco Lee died at the hospital after attempting to take her own life. She was a highly successful Chinese singer, earning fame and recognition at an early age. She received many international accolades over her career, including singing the Mandarin theme for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Her fans and family were devastated by the tragic loss of life.
In addition to her flourishing music career, Coco Lee received praise from the Disney community for her remarkable portrayal as the singing and acting voice of Mulan in the Mandarin version of the animated film. Her heartfelt rendition of “Reflection” touched the souls of countless individuals, and her contributions to this beloved cinematic masterpiece will forever be cherished. She even reprised her role to sing the iconic song for the 2020 live-action adaptation.
Lee struggled with depression, and her sisters reported with great sadness that her mental health deteriorated significantly in the past year. The singer’s social media account portrays someone trying hard to keep positive and push forward through her battle. She sought help, but it sadly wasn’t enough. Lee attempted suicide in her house and was in a coma before being pronounced dead at the hospital five days later.
Mulan Voice Actress on Coco Lee’s Death
Ming-Na Wen, the voice behind Mulan from the English dub of Disney’s Mulan, took to Twitter after hearing of Coco Lee’s passing. She expressed shock and sadness, offering a beautiful tribute to her fallen princess companion.
I am shocked to learn that Coco Lee passed. Horrible news. What a huge blow to our Mulan family. She was a vivacious, beautiful and talented artist. My condolences to her family, friends and fans.
I am shocked to learn that #CocoLee passed. Horrible news.
What a huge blow to our #Mulan family. 😢💔
She was a vivacious, beautiful and talented artist. My condolences to her family, friends & fans.
RIP🙏🏼💔 pic.twitter.com/lf3Bk6a2ml— Ming-Na Wen (@MingNa) July 6, 2023
When news broke of Coco Lee’s passing, some fans thought Ming-Na Wen had died. She is alive and well, but seeing her pay tribute to Lee has emotional significance. The two actresses brought the same character to life for different audiences, and it it touching to see Wen acknowledge this kinship.
Coco Lee’s death stresses the importance of seeking professional help and being there for those struggling with internal battles. She will be sorely missed and remembered fondly by those in the Disney fandom.