Actress’s alleged death from Lupus Erythematosus fuels speculation.
The entertainment industry was left reeling with the sudden news of Hong Kong actress Zhou Hai Mei’s death on December 11, 2023. Known for her prominent roles in TVB productions like “The Breaking Point” and “Time Before Time,” Zhou Hai Mei, also known as Kathy Chow, had a fandom that was left bewildered by her abrupt departure. One of her most famous roles was in the 1994 Taiwanese adaptation of “The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber,” where she portrayed Zhou Zhiruo.
Chow had a strong career trajectory in the late 1980s and early 1990s, starring in numerous TV series in crucial roles. Her journey in the entertainment industry began with the Miss Hong Kong pageant, which paved the way for her acting and modeling career. Chow transitioned from TVB to ATV in 1998, where besides making occasional appearances in Hong Kong films, she also served as a host for award shows.
The news of Chow’s alleged death caused a flurry of shock and grief on social media, with fans and media outlets alike seeking more information. The cause of her death is believed to be Lupus Erythematosus, a chronic autoimmune disease. Upon reaching out to her representatives for confirmation, there was an unusual silence, with the topic of her death leading to abrupt ends in conversations.
Staff members were quick to end calls or feign preoccupation with other tasks when asked about Chow, adding further to the prevailing confusion. In the absence of any official statement or further information, fans resorted to sharing their memories and expressing their sorrow over the actress’s departure on social media. The lack of an official statement from Chow’s representatives only served to fuel speculation and confusion.
Lupus Erythematosus, the disease Chow is purported to have suffered from, is the second most common autoimmune disease worldwide, affecting over a million people. It is also one of the most common systemic autoimmune disorders in China. Lupus is a chronic condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to inflammation and, in some cases, irreversible tissue damage. The disease can affect any part of the body and can have widespread effects on the skin, joints, heart, kidneys, blood cells, and brain.
As the entertainment industry mourns the reported loss of Chow, more details have emerged about her personal battles, particularly her fight against Lupus Erythematosus. This unpredictable and often fatal disease had a significant impact on Chow’s life, influencing her perspectives and decisions.
While the precise cause of lupus remains unknown, it is believed to be the result of a complex interplay of immunological, environmental, genetic, and inflammatory factors. Some genes are thought to predispose individuals to lupus, and exposure to environmental triggers such as smoking, sunlight, viruses, and certain medications can also trigger the disease. Research is currently underway to understand the anomalies in the immune system and their connection to lupus.
