NEW YORK: The entertainment world is paying tribute to veteran actress Wai Ching Ho after the Daredevil star, celebrated for her unforgettable portrayal of Madame Gao, died at the age of 82.
The news of Ho’s passing was shared by her Daredevil co-star Peter Shinkoda, who played Nobu Yoshioka in the first season of the Marvel series.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Shinkoda wrote, “Just lost someone very special to me. She was one of the coolest,” alongside the hashtag #Gao.
Ho gained worldwide recognition for her portrayal of the mysterious and formidable Madame Gao in Marvel’s Daredevil. She later reprised the role in Iron Fist and The Defenders, becoming one of the franchise’s most memorable villains.
Beyond the Marvel universe, Ho voiced Grandma Wu in Pixar’s 2022 animated film Turning Red, which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature.
In a second tribute, Shinkoda remembered Ho as a mentor and dear friend.
“I won’t ever forget you. I learned every minute from you when we were together on and off set. I know wisdom I’d hang on your every word. We will meet again, my friend. You were beautiful,” he wrote.
Actress Mahira Kakkar, who appeared alongside Ho in the National Asian American Theatre Company’s production of Henry VI, also honored the late star, describing her as “a pillar,” “a stellar human,” and “a stellar artist.”
Fans flooded social media with messages of grief and remembrance following the announcement.
Many praised Ho’s performance as Madame Gao, describing it as haunting, captivating, and unforgettable.
Born in Hong Kong on November 16, 1943, Wai Ching Ho built an extensive career in film, television, and theatre.
Her screen credits included Law & Order, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, Orange Is the New Black, Fresh Off the Boat, The Good Cop, New Amsterdam, Hustlers, Law & Order: Organized Crime, and Only Murders in the Building.
The cause of Ho’s death has not been publicly disclosed.
Wai Ching Ho leaves behind a remarkable artistic legacy, with colleagues and fans remembering her as a gifted performer whose work left a lasting mark on both Marvel and the broader entertainment industry.
