Veteran Taiwanese entertainer Tsao Hsi-ping dies ‘suddenly’ at 66: What we know about his cause of death

Veteran entertainer Tsao Hsi-ping died late on the night of December 29 at the age of 66, with multiple Taiwanese media outlets, including SETN and FTV News, describing his death as ‘sudden.’ Tsao (Denny Tsao) was a well-known singer, television host, and variety show regular, remembered for his sharp on-screen persona and distinctive style. Known for his emotional outbursts and attention-grabbing antics, his line “Ugly monster, so ugly!” remained one of his most memorable catchphrases.

How Tsao Hsi-ping die?

Tsao Hsi-ping’s cause of death: Tsao Hsi-ping’s exact cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed. However, news outlet Sohu, citing multiple Taiwanese media reports, stated that the Sanchong branch of the New Taipei City Fire Department received an emergency call and rushed to Tsao Hsi-ping’s residence in Sanchong.


Upon arrival, emergency personnel found Tsao already deceased, with clear signs of ‘rigor mortis and lividity,’ notes the outlet. His godson, who was present at the scene, subsequently made the difficult decision to forgo resuscitation efforts.

Why does Tsao Hsi-ping carry a whistle?

Tsao once explained the reason behind his whistle during an appearance on No Tears Tonight, hosted by Di Ying and Wang Cai-hua. He said many shows in earlier years featured a large number of guests.

“Everyone would rush to speak, the elders were slower to react, and the children would talk non-stop, and before they could finish speaking, the show would be over,” he said, as quoted by setn. As a result, he carried a whistle to help maintain order on set.

Tsao Hsi-ping’s return to entertainment

In 2002, Tsao became involved in a property dispute with his brother, which led him to temporarily withdraw from the entertainment industry. He later shifted his focus to business and moved to Thailand. Tsao returned to the entertainment scene in 2010, resuming appearances on television variety programs.

Tsao Hsi-ping’s family

Tsao Hsi-ping remained unmarried and childless throughout his life and had openly discussed arrangements concerning his affairs after death. He had publicly stated that he had long severed ties with other members of the Cao family and made it clear that his estate would not be left to anyone with the surname Cao.

Who was Tsao Hsi-ping?

Denny Tsao (Tsao Hsi-ping) was a Taiwanese-Chinese singer known for Ye xing de qing chun (1982), Westgate Tango (2012), and The Queen! (2013). Tsao Hsi-ping first rose to prominence as a singer and was once dubbed the “Hideki Saijo of Taiwan.” He later became a familiar face on variety shows, where his outspoken remarks and dramatic presence made him stand out.

One of his most recognizable traits was carrying a whistle during recordings, frequently blowing it in the studio. His signature line, “You ugly monster,” became a classic among viewers, with fellow entertainers joking that “everyone who was scolded by him would become famous.”