Chinese streamer dies in alcohol challenge, second incident in a month
A popular Chinese live streamer, known online as Zhong Yuan Huang Ge, passed away on June 2 after indulging in excessive alcohol consumption during a live show to win a cash prize from his viewers. His death marks the second such incident within a month and highlights the dangers of internet fame mixed with alcohol challenges.
Zhong Yuan Huang Ge, a 27 year old live streamer, had about 176,000 followers on his social media accounts. His video content primarily revolved around drinking copious amounts of alcohol, including liquor Banjiu – known for its potent strength – and beer. Li, his wife, confirmed his death to the Chinese media outlet Jimu News and further mentioned that his short video account was banned earlier due to one video showing him setting fire to alcohol-soaked papers before quickly downing half a bottle of alcohol.
Li said, “I’ve asked my husband about his debts many times, but he just said that he wanted to pay off his debts as soon as possible and live a good life.” She revealed that they had only just built a new house in their village this year and had planned to earn more money for further renovations after sending their son to kindergarten. She vowed to work hard throughout her life to help her husband pay off his sizable debts, which existed even before their marriage. The couple had been together for eight years.
Huang Ge’s death followed that of another Chinese live streamer surnamed Wang, who was found dead on May 16 after being seen consuming four bottles of baijiu, which has an alcohol content between 35% and 60%. Huang was a close friend of Wang and had attended his funeral, according to the Chinese media outlet Southern Metropolis Daily. During the funeral, a friend of Huang heard him say that he would reduce his alcohol consumption, reports Khaosod Online.
