Veteran Mandopop producer Yuan Wei-jen dies aged 57 in Taiwan
Renowned Taiwanese music producer and songwriter Yuan Wei-jen, affectionately known as “Little Fat Teacher”, has passed away at the age of 57 after years of health complications.
- Yuan Wei-jen died peacefully at home on 2 February at the age of 57.
- He was a prolific producer, songwriter and talent show judge behind many Mandopop classics.
- His health deteriorated after a brain haemorrhage and tumour diagnosis in 2018.
TAIWAN: Veteran Taiwanese music producer and songwriter Yuan Wei-jen (袁惟仁), widely known by his nickname “Little Fatty Teacher (小胖老师)”, has died at home at the age of 57.
The news was confirmed by fellow music producer Chen Tzu-hung, who shared a Facebook post written by Yuan’s elder sister.
In her message, the family said Yuan chose to leave peacefully and that his wishes were respected.
“Little Fatty chose to leave us today. We respect his decision. He left calmly and is now free,” she wrote.
“We will bring him back to Taipei to be buried with our father, in a place with mountains and water that he is familiar with.”
She added that Yuan left behind a rich musical legacy, noting that his songs can still be listened to while driving, during moments of sadness or calm, and that “he is everywhere”.
A Giant in Mandopop
Yuan was a highly influential figure in the Mandarin music industry.
He served as a producer for major acts including S.H.E, Power Station and Chyi Chin, and wrote numerous hit songs that became household favourites, such as Conquer, Pinwheel, Waking From a Dream, Leave Me and A Dream.
He was also widely recognised as a judge on the popular talent show Super Star Avenue, where his sharp yet humorous critiques endeared him to audiences. His oft-repeated phrase, “Jia you, hao ma?” (“Keep going, alright?”), became a signature line remembered by fans.
Health Crisis and Long Battle
At the height of his career, Yuan shifted his focus to work in mainland China. However, in July 2018, while in Shanghai, he suffered a serious fall that led to a brain haemorrhage. Doctors later discovered a brain tumour during emergency treatment.
After undergoing surgery and intensive treatment for nearly two months, he survived and returned to his hometown in Taitung to recuperate under the care of his mother and sister. His condition initially showed signs of improvement.
Subsequent Decline
In 2019, Yuan was seen attending rehabilitation sessions. Despite extreme weight loss and limited mobility, he remained determined, practising basic movements and responding to simple conversations.
In October 2020, Yuan suffered another setback when he fell at home while trying to stand using his wheelchair, hitting his head and falling into a coma. He was rushed to intensive care and later showed temporary improvement.
His condition deteriorated further, and in 2022, doctors determined that he had entered a vegetative state, leaving him bedridden long-term. His family kept a low profile, though it was later revealed that he could barely recognise people.
In November 2025, Yuan was hospitalised again after tests showed elevated white blood cell levels and lung inflammation. He passed away peacefully at home on 2 February.
Yuan Wei-jen’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from the entertainment industry and fans alike, many of whom credit his work with shaping the sound of Mandopop for an entire generation.
As his family wrote, although “Little Fatty Teacher” has left this world, the music he created continues to live on — accompanying listeners through joy, sorrow and quiet moments.
