'Mulan' star Coco Lee has died aged 48

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By James Kay

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Coco Lee, the actress who voiced Mulan in the Mandarin version of Disney's movie of the same name, has died aged 48.

Coco was born in Hong Kong and later moved to the US to be schooled in San Francisco.

After being crowned Miss Teen Chinatown in 1991, Coco was one of the first Chinese singers to make waves in the US as her song 'Do You Want My Love' made it into the number four spot on Billboard's Hot Dance Breakout chart in 1999.

Sadly, Coco has passed away aged 48 after she attempted to take her own life at her home on Sunday. She was found by her sisters, Carol and Nancy, and was rushed to the hospital.

It was there that she slipped into a coma and ultimately died on Wednesday, as reported by TMZ.

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Coco Lee has died aged 48. Credit: VCG / Getty

The outlet reported that Coco battled with depression for many years, and in the last few months her condition worsened and she made the decision to take her own life.

She documented her battles on her Instagram profile, and her last post in December is now particularly heartbreaking.

Posting an image of a tattoo on her wrist that reads "love", Coco wrote: "Life seemed unbearable at times but I adapted the attitude of a 'female warrior' to face them head on fearlessly but always had the biggest smile and big fat laughter!"

She continued: "My goal in 2023 is to share my life story n how i faced major life changing hurdles n still manage to keep a positive attitude. I am happy to say I am finally living the real me. It’s the best feeling n I’m grateful everyday to be alive n I get to share my thoughts with u [sic]."

Coco concluded the heartfelt post by writing: "Just like The Great Wall of China I will never fall. If I can overcome anything, so can u! You are not alone, no matter how hard life gets, I’m with u [sic]."

People have flooded the comments of this post with messages of love since the news of her passing was announced.

One person wrote: "I will always remember you as a passionate, charismatic, and loving individual. Thank you for always being nice to me, and giving me lots of encouragement. Im thankful we got to work together on a song, it will always have a special place in my heart. Rest peacefully Coco!"

A second added: "Rest well Coco, you’re my childhood memory. I grew up with your songs."

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Credit: Instagram
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Credit: Instagram

Our thoughts are with Coco's family, friends, and fans at this time.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org 

Featured image credit: VCG / Getty