Chinese TV station faces wave of criticism after death of Taiwanese-Canadian actor Godfrey Gao during filming
- Leaked documents suggest that Gao had signed a one-sided contract that absolved programme makers Zhejiang Television of all liability
- Actor collapsed while taking part in an episode of Chase Me, a reality show noted for its tough physical challenges
The sudden death of Taiwanese-Canadian actor and model Godfrey Gao during the filming of physically demanding reality show has sparked an outpouring of public criticism directed against the broadcaster.
Gao died in the early hours of Wednesday from a cardiac arrest in the eastern Chinese city of Ningbo during the filming of Zhejiang Television’s hit reality show Chase Me.
Gao’s parents, who travelled to the city later in the day, met television staff and told them “it’s not your fault”, according to Sina.cn.
But despite his family’s stance, many fans on social media questioned whether the broadcaster should share some responsibility for his death, prompting the station to promise that it would hold a full investigation.
The show features a variety of tough challenges that even the professional athletes who have taken part – including former Olympic and world boxing champion Zou Shiming – have struggled to complete.