Godfrey Gao’s Family Gave Out His Favourite Gummy Bears At His Funeral

Late Taiwanese actor Godfrey Gao, who passed away on November 27 after collapsing on the set of Chinese variety show Chase Me, was cremated yesterday (Dec 15).

According to media reports, over 300 friends and family members showed up to pay their last respects at Taipei’s First Funeral Parlour. Among those in attendance were Godfrey’s girlfriend Bella Su, as well as fellow celebs like Blackie Chen and Christine Fan, Wang Leehom, Yao Yuan Hao, and more.

In addition, a long line of fans was spotted forming outside the hall. Godfrey’s management agency had previously announced that his funeral will be open to the public to give them the opportunity to send him off.

The entrance to the funeral hall had a large white archway with the words, “Flying Free with God” and “Godfrey Farewell Ceremony” printed on it. The hall itself was also filled with countless white orchids, as well as colourful paper cranes that were made by fans.

The funeral began at 8am and lasted for about two hours. Godfrey’s two older brothers stood in front of the line to greet guests, while a puffy-eyed Bella accompanied his parents, who were seated. When it was the media’s turn to pay their tributes, Godfrey’s mother and father immediately stood up to bow in gratitude.

After the memorial service ended, guests were given a packet of gummy bears as they exited the hall. This was done at the request of Godfrey’s parents, who explained that the candies were his favourite snacks when he was alive.

At about 10.30am, a hearse arrived to transport Godfrey’s body to the crematorium. His brothers came to collect his ashes at 1.15pm and, together with Bella, they set out for Godfrey’s final resting place at Chin Pao San Cemetery.

One figure who drew much attention at the funeral was Lin Yong, the director of Zhejiang TV, the broadcasting company behind Chase Me. Ever since Godfrey’s death, Zhejiang TV and Chase Me's production team have come under fire for failing to provide adequate medical care in the moments following his collapse.

When approached by reporters for a comment at the funeral, Lin Yong uttered, “We are very sad.” However, he did not respond to questions about whether he will offer any compensation to Godfrey’s family.

Photos: Apple Daily Taiwan, TVBS News, Instagram/Godfrey Gao, TPG/CLICKPHOTOS