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Alien Huang
Alien Huang
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Alien Huang (28 November 1983 – 16 September 2020), also known as Xiao Gui (Little Ghost), was a Taiwanese singer, actor, television presenter, illustrator and fashion designer.

Key Information

He was a member of Japanese TV Asahi's disbanded boy band HC3 in 2002 and Taiwanese Rock Records' disbanded boy band Cosmo (丸子) [zh] in 2003. He went on to release five solo albums and acted in movies and television dramas. He was known as the host of popular Taiwanese variety entertainment show 100% Entertainment, which he left in early 2016.

Huang was the founder and designer of AES (Alien Evolution Studio), a clothing brand which he established in 2008. He also published three illustration books.

Early life

[edit]

Alien Huang was born in Taipei. He grew up living with his father, younger sister and paternal grandmother. Although he lived separately from his mother due to his parents' early divorce, they still maintained a close relationship. Ever since primary school, his talent in arts and crafts had been evident as his grades were always within the top three ranks in poster-designing projects. When he was in middle school, his father intended to train him to become a professional golf player.[1] However, due to his interest in performing, he decided to apply to HuaGang High School of Performing Arts, where he was accepted after achieving first place out of thousands of applicants. There, he met classmate Rainie Yang, and they dated for three years.[2][3] Their relationship ended when Rainie made her debut in the entertainment industry and dropped out of high school. He also put his hosting talents to use by serving as the MC of all major events held at school. In his spare time, he even worked in a fast-food restaurant.[4] He obtained a lifeguard licence at the age of 18,[5] and a swimming coach qualification when he was 20 years of age.

Huang chose his English name "Alien" because he hoped to be an indefinable and unique character, like aliens are, full of creativity and not confined to normality.[6] He previously also had various other English names, including "Janson"[7] when he was in high school and "Harry"[8] when he was in primary school.

Career

[edit]

In high school, Alien Huang was chosen to take part in a pre-casting training course for the film Blue Gate Crossing. While he did not participate in the film, it was during this time that he was discovered by his first manager, and had officially entered the entertainment industry at the age of 18.

In 2002, he began hosting a nature-discovery show for children named Follow Me, Go!. He then joined the Japanese-Taiwanese boy band HC3. They released their debut single "We Are Friends"《我們是朋友》, but disbanded not long afterwards.

In 2003, he became part of the boy band Cosmo, but due to a problem with the contract of one of the members, Richard(綠茶), they disbanded after releasing their debut album《關東煮》.

In 2004, he played one of the main roles in the film Holiday Dreaming《夢遊夏威夷》.

In 2005, he started hosting various entertainment shows, and in 2006 he officially became a fixed host of the show 100% Entertainment《娛樂百分百》.

In 2007, he released a duet, "The Melody of Love"《愛的主旋律》, with co-artist Genie Chuo. He also released his first book《搞什麼鬼?!》the same year.

In 2008, he starred in the drama series Mysterious Incredible Terminator《霹靂MIT》 as one of the main roles, 747黃輝宏. He also released his first single "Fooling Around"《鬼混》 along with his second book《鬼怒穿》that year.

In July 2009, he released his first mini album Disdain《不屑》 and in December of the same year he released his first full album titled Love & Hero《愛&英雄》.

In 2010, he released another single, "Heart Amulet"《御守之心》, along with his third book,《赤鬼流》.

In 2011, he took on leading roles in the drama series Love You《醉後決定愛上你》 and "Lin Bei"《珍愛林北》, as well as the Singaporean film Already Famous《一泡而紅》. In August, he released the single "Transformers Cuz of You"《金剛變形》. In December, he released his second full album Break Heart, Black Heart《黑心傷品》.

In 2012, he starred in Taiwanese film Din Tao: Leader of the Parade《陣頭》, which earned a box office of NTD 315 million, as well as the highly rated Singaporean drama series Joys of Life. He also starred as the lead role in the Taiwanese television drama Sweet Sweet Bodyguard《剩女保鏢》, which gained high local popularity. His debut Asia concert tour G·host Tour 2012 also took place towards the end of the year, starting in Taiwan on his birthday (28 November) and continuing to Hong Kong and Singapore.

In 2013, he released his third full album, Make Sense《超有感》. He also held concerts in Taipei and Shanghai in the latter part of the year. He won “Most Popular Male Artiste” at the 2013 Singapore Hit Awards, as well as “MeRadio Top Downloaded Hit Award (Male Artist), for which the winning female artist for the same award was Singapore singer songwriter Serene Koong (龚芝怡).[9] He also won two awards at the 2014 HITO Radio Music Awards,[10] namely "hito网路首播人气” and “hito舞台演绎”.

In 2016, as his focus in the entertainment industry shifted to musical and acting careers, Alien left 100% Entertainment, the only show he was hosting at the time.

In 2018, he returned to hosting when joined Jacky Wu as hosts of Mr. Player. In 2019, he joined Shiny Zhang as hosts for I'm the Best In Taiwanese, an educational program about teaching Taiwanese to the public. At the time of his death, the show finished airing its second season, totaling 26 episodes.

Death

[edit]

At 11:27 a.m. on 16 September 2020, the police received a call from Huang's father, who reported that Huang was unresponsive.[11] Huang was discovered lying between the bedroom and bathroom in his Beitou District apartment,[12][13][14] with external injuries to the head.[15][16] The paramedics who arrived at the scene pronounced Huang dead, with the body reported to already be at the stage of rigor mortis.[15] The preliminary results of an autopsy suggested that Huang had cardiovascular disease.[17] The autopsy concluded that Huang died of aortic dissection, but found no history of cardiovascular disease and no external injuries.[18][19]

Personal life

[edit]

Huang dated Rainie Yang, the daughter of his godmother, for two years while they were both students at Taipei Hwa Kang Arts School, although he clarified that they were not each other's first loves. Their relationship ended after Yang entered the entertainment industry and dropped out of the school, but they remained close friends thereafter.[20]

In 2016, Huang was reported to be in a relationship with NueNue, a member of the girl group Weather Girls, who was spotted staying overnight at his home. Huang admitted that she was "the type I like" and briefly updated his Facebook relationship status to "in a relationship." The relationship came to an end after three years in 2019.[20]

At the time of his death, Huang had been dating Wu Han-chun, a member of the cheerleading team The Passion Sisters, for a year and a half.[21][22] Their relationship had been rumored, but was not confirmed until Wu made an Instagram post acknowledging Huang's death.[23][24]

Discography

[edit]

Solo studio albums and singles

[edit]
Release year English title Chinese title Format
2008 Fooling Around 鬼混 Single
2009 Disdain 不屑 Mini album
Love & Hero 愛&英雄 Album
2010 Heart Amulet 御守之心 Single
2011 Transformers Cuz of You 金剛變形 Single
Break Heart, Black Heart 黑心傷品 Album
2012 Forgot How To Be Happy 忘了怎麼快樂 Single
2013 Make Sense 超有感 Album
2014 Dare to believe, dare to do, dare to love 自以為我以為 Single
Love Song 有感情歌 Single
2015 Forget Me 忘了我 Single
Napoléon 拿破崙 Single
ALiEN 同名音創作品 Album
2018 HUMAN 人類 Album
2020 Plan B Plan B Album

Studio albums and singles (band)

[edit]
Name of band English title Chinese title Release year Format
HC3 We Are Friends 《我們是朋友》 2002 Single
Cosmo Kanto Stew 《關東煮》 2003 Album
Speedball Fastball Boys 《直球對決男子漢》 2004 Album
Playboyz Happy New Year – It's All Good 《Happy New Year 這個讚》 2010 Compilation

Collaborations

[edit]
Release year English title Chinese title Co-artist(s)
2003
You Better Remember
《你給我記住》
2004
Resurrection Island
《復活島》
2007
The Melody of Love
《愛的主旋律》
Angel's Wings
《天使的翅膀》
  • Various Artists
2008
Fly Together
《一起飛》
  • Various Artists
2009
Let Love Spin the Entire Universe
《讓愛轉動整個宇宙》
  • Various Artists
2010
Tomorrow Will be Better
《明天會更好》
  • Various Artists
2012
Solicitude
《牽掛》
2013
Beloved
《心愛的》
2020
Carry On
《扛得住》

Soundtrack contributions

[edit]
Year English title Chinese title OST
2004 Shining
(Cosmo)
「Shining」
(丸子)
Love Contract
Perfect Ending
(Cosmo)
「Perfect的完結」
(丸子)
Herb Lovers
Come Go to Hawaii
Speed Force
(Cosmo)
「來去夏威夷」
「上流速力霸」
(丸子)
Holiday Dreaming
2010 Clone 「複製人」 Rogue Principal
2011 Transformers Cuz of You 「金剛變形」 Lin Bei
Thank You for Letting Me Equal You 「謝謝你讓我等於你」 Already Famous
2012 Solicitude
(with Rui En)
「牽掛」
(與瑞恩合唱)
Joys of Life
Forgot How To Be Happy 「忘了怎麼快樂」 Sweet Sweet Bodyguard
One Four One Three 「一四一三」 Dong-Huachun Barbershop
2013年 One out of A Thousand 「千分之一」 Just You
The Cat from the Farm 「村上的貓」
Beloved
(with Genie Chuo)
「心愛的」
(與卓文萱合唱)

Filmography

[edit]

Television series

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2002 Freedom of Half Grown-Ups
半成年主張之搞個自由式
Xiao Gui
小鬼
2005 KO One
終極一班
Cai Yi-Ling
蔡一零
Cameo
Detective Story A.S.T.
偵探物語
Ah-Jun
阿君
Cameo
2006 Tokyo Juliet
東方茱麗葉
Lu Yi-Mi
陸一彌
A Child from Heaven
天堂來的孩子
Zhong Da-Gui
鍾大規
Hey! Is the Water Boiled?
喂!水開了沒?
Ah-Zhong
阿忠
2007 Corner With Love
轉角*遇到愛
Ah-Yi
阿義
Summer x Summer
熱情仲夏
Chen Lang-Zhu
陳朗竹
2008 Mysterious Incredible Terminator
霹靂MIT
Huang Hui-Hong
黃輝宏
(747)

Taiwan
2009 Letter 1949
我在1949,等你
Li Wen-Xiong
李文雄
2010 Rogue Principal
流氓校長
Wang Tuo-Hai
王拓海
2011 Love You
醉後決定愛上你
Geng Shuo-Huai
耿爍懷
Lin Bei
珍愛林北
Kong Yun-Qing
孔雲青
Taiwan
2012 Joys of Life
花样人间
Zhao Ming-Xing
赵明星
Singapore
Sweet Sweet Bodyguard
剩女保鏢
He Zhong-Qi
何仲祈
Taiwan
2014 Lovestore at the Corner
巷弄裡的那家書店
Li Ze Xuan
李澤暄
Taiwan
2017 Running Man
逃婚一百次
Hsu Da-cai
许达才
Taiwan
2019 Without Her, Even Hero is Zero
我是顧家男
Brian Cameo
Someday Or One Day
想見你
Du Qi-min
杜齊閔
Cameo
2020 Dream Raider
獵夢特工
特勤隊長 HBO Asia

Cameo

Film

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2002 Wild (狂放) Lin Yi-jie
2002 Holiday Dreaming (夢遊夏威夷) Xiao Gui
2006 A Flight to Yesterday (飛往昨天的CI006) Li Zheng-fei
2007 Burn! Motorbike (燃燒吧!機車) Hu Di-ni
2009 Black Tide (黑潮) Xiao Gui
2011 Already Famous Christopher Singaporean film
2012 Din Tao: Leader of the Parade Ah-xian
2015 Gatao Ah-xiong
2016 Go! Crazy Gangster (風雲高手) Ren Laifeng
The Big Power (大顯神威) Lin Keqiang
2017 All Because of Love Hong Disuo Cameo
Who is the Champion? (舞極限) Zhang Yunhan Malaysian film
2024 Fat Hope Nathan Singaporean film; posthumous release

Music video appearances

[edit]

Acting in music videos of songs by other artists:

Year English song title Original song title Artist
2002 Love Starts from Zero 「愛從零開始」 Stefanie Sun
孫燕姿
2003 To See You 「來看你」 Jeffrey Kung
孔令奇
Tomorrow 「明天」 Faith Yang
楊乃文
2004 Never Back Down 「永不退縮」 Richie Jen
任賢齊
2006 Lately 「最近」 Sam Lee
李聖傑
2007 Trying Hard 「很用力」 Olivia Yan
閻韋伶
The Melody of Love 「愛的主旋律」 Alien Huang & Genie Chuo
黃鴻升 & 卓文萱
2008 Fly Together 「一起飛」 Various Artists
群星
2009 Let Love Spin the Entire Universe 「讓愛轉動整個宇宙」 Various Artists
群星
2010 Tomorrow Will Be Better 「明天會更好」 Various Artists
群星
Happy New Year – It's All Good 「Happy New Year 這個讚」 Playboyz
2012 Solicitude 「牽掛」 Alien Huang & Rui En
黃鴻升 & 瑞恩
2013 Habitual Hibernation 「慣性冬眠」 Gillian Chung
鍾欣桐
After Returning Home 「回家以後」

Show hosting

[edit]
Year English title Original title Location
2002 Follow Me, Go! 下課花路米 Taiwan
2004 Entertainment Oh My God 娛樂歐MyGod Taiwan
2005 Survival Bus 生存巴士 Taiwan
2006 Cool Army 蓋酷兵團 Taiwan
2005 (as locum), 2006 (from official hosting)→ 2016 100% Entertainment 娛樂百分百 Taiwan
2008 Xiao Gui at Home Alone 小鬼當家 Taiwan
2009 The Winner Is 得獎的事 Taiwan
2011 China Love • Music Show 中国爱•大歌会 China
2014 CityColor zh城彩名人堂 Taiwan
2017 趣你的娛樂 Taiwan
2018 Mr. Player [zh] zh:綜藝玩很大 Taiwan
2019 Best At Taiwanese 《台語我上讚》 Taiwan
2020 《聊聊大明星》 Taiwan

Books

[edit]
Year English title Chinese title Category
2007 Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die 《搞什麼鬼?!》 Illustration book
2008 Gui Nu Chuan 《鬼怒穿》 Illustration book
2010 Chi Gui Liu 《赤鬼流》 Illustration book

Awards

[edit]
  • 2010 Singapore Entertainment Awards(新加坡E樂大賞2010):
    Most Popular Regional Newcomer(E樂人氣海外新人獎)
  • 2010 Channel V:
    Top 10 Chinese Golden Melodies(第一季華語十大金曲):《搞砸了》[25]
  • 2010 Hong Kong Metro Radio Mandarin Hit Music Awards(香港新城國語力頒獎禮2010):
    King of New Artistes(新人王)[26]
  • 2010 Singapore Hit Awards(新加坡金曲獎2010):
    Most Acclaimed Male Artiste(新晉男歌手人氣獎)
    F&N Fruit Tree Fresh Greatest Improvement Artiste(大躍進歌手獎)
  • 2011 Malaysia MY Astro Music Awards(馬來西亞 MY Astro 至尊流行榜頒獎典禮2011):
    Best New International Artist(至尊海外新人獎)
    Golden Melody Song(至尊金曲獎)《地球上最浪漫的一首歌》
  • 2011 Singapore Entertainment Awards(新加坡e樂大賞2011):
    Most Popular Male Singer(e樂人氣男歌手獎)
    Hottest Web Celeb(omy 網絡紅人獎)
  • 2011 China Music Radio Top Chart Awards(MusicRadio中國Top排行榜頒獎禮2011):
    Most Recommended Album of the Year: Love & Hero(港臺年度推薦唱片):《愛&英雄
  • 2012 Singapore Entertainment Awards(新加坡e樂大賞2012):
    Most Popular Taiwanese TV Actor(e樂人氣台灣電視演員獎)
    Most Popular Male Singer(e樂人氣男歌手獎)
    Most Popular Music Video(e樂人氣MV獎):《六十億分之一》
  • 2012 Hong Kong Metro Radio Mandarin Hit Music Awards (香港新城國語力頒獎禮2012):
    Best Male Singer(國語力男歌手)
    Best Mandarin Song(國語力歌曲):《澀谷》
  • 2012 Singapore Blog Awards(新加坡部落格大獎2012):
    Most Popular Overseas Celebrity Blog/Microblog(最受歡迎海外名人部落格/微博)[27]
  • 2013 Taiwan PixNet Entertainment Awards(台灣痞客邦娛樂丸咖獎2013):
    King of Entertainment – Silver Award(男藝人 最佳國丸 – 銀獎)
    Best Album of the Year – Silver Award(年度專輯 強力放送丸 – 銀獎)
  • 2013 Singapore Entertainment Awards(新加坡e樂大賞2013):
    Most Popular Taiwanese TV Actor(e樂人氣台灣電視演員獎)
    Most Popular Cover Celebrity(e樂人氣封面人物)
  • 2013 Singapore Hit Awards(新加坡金曲獎2013):[28]
    Most Popular Male Artiste Award(最受欢迎男歌手獎)
    MeRadio Top Downloaded Hit Award (Male Artiste)(MeRadio下载率最高金曲(男歌手):《超有感》)
    F&N Fruit Tree Fresh Stylish Artiste Award(F&N Fruit Tree Fresh 时尚歌手奖)

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Alien Huang (November 28, 1983 – September 16, 2020), also known as Xiao Gui (Little Ghost), was a Taiwanese singer, , , , and fashion designer. Born Huang Hong-Sheng in , , he began his entertainment career at age 18 by joining the HC3, a project associated with Japan's . He later pursued a solo music career, releasing five albums including Love & Hero (2009), Break Heart, Black Heart (2011), Make Sense (2013), Alien (2015), and Plan B (2020), blending and rock elements. Huang rose to prominence in the as the host of the popular Taiwanese 100% Entertainment, where his energetic personality endeared him to audiences. In acting, he starred in films such as the gang drama Gatao (2015), for which he also composed music, and the My Other Home (2016). Beyond performance, he ventured into and , showcasing his creative versatility. On September 16, 2020, Huang was found dead in his apartment at the age of 36; an autopsy determined the cause as an after he collapsed in his bathroom, with no signs of foul play. His sudden death prompted widespread tributes from fans and peers in the Taiwanese industry.

Early life

Birth and family background

Alien Huang was born on November 28, 1983, in , , . Details about his are scarce in , but his parents divorced during his early years, after which he was raised primarily by his father alongside his younger sister, Huang Ting Ting, and paternal grandmother.

Education and early interests

Huang attended Yixian Elementary School. He later attended Hwa Kang Arts School, a prominent institution specializing in located in 's . There, he trained in and developed foundational skills in acting and performance that would later define his career in . Following high school, Huang enrolled at Taipei City University of Science and Technology. In his youth, Huang showed initial interest in athletics, receiving training as a golfer during under his father's encouragement to pursue a professional path in the sport. He also obtained a license at age 18 and a swimming coach qualification by age 20. However, his passion for entertainment led him to pivot toward , embracing performance and visual creativity as his primary pursuits.

Professional career

Music career

Alien Huang debuted in the music industry at the age of 18 in 2002 as a member of the Japanese-Taiwanese HC3, formed as part of a project for Japan's Asahi TV program "." The group released their debut single "We Are Friends" before disbanding later that year. In 2003, Huang joined the Taiwanese Cosmo under , where he contributed to group performances and their sole album release amid contractual challenges that led to the band's quick disbandment. He later participated in short-lived groups (2005) and Playboyz (2010). This period marked his early exposure to dynamics within the Taiwanese music scene. Huang transitioned to a solo career around 2007, beginning with a "The Melody of Love" alongside Genie Chuo, which showcased his emerging vocal style in pop arrangements. By 2008, he released his debut solo single "Fooling Around," followed in 2009 by his first mini-album Disdain, establishing him in pop and R&B genres characterized by upbeat rhythms and emotional ballads. His stylistic evolution in subsequent releases often drew from personal experiences, incorporating introspective lyrics that reflected themes of relationships and self-growth to connect more deeply with listeners.

Acting and television career

Huang entered the acting industry in the mid-2000s, starting with minor roles in Taiwanese television dramas before advancing to more prominent parts that showcased his versatility. His early screen appearances helped build his on-screen presence, drawing from his prior experience in music to infuse characters with energetic and charismatic performances. A pivotal moment in his television career occurred in 2006 when he joined the 100% Entertainment as a co-host alongside , a role he held until 2016 and which solidified his reputation as a engaging and reliable entertainer in Taiwan's media landscape. This long-term hosting stint not only boosted his visibility but also allowed him to hone his improvisational skills, transitioning seamlessly between scripted acting and live variety formats. During this period, he balanced hosting duties with acting opportunities, including a lead role as CEO He Zhong-qi in the 2012 series Sweet Sweet Bodyguard, which highlighted his ability to portray lighthearted, relatable protagonists. Huang's film breakthrough came in with Din Tao: Leader of the Parade, where he starred as Ah Xian in the culturally resonant drama about traditional Taiwanese troupes, contributing to the film's commercial success with a domestic gross of approximately NTD 315 million. Later in his career, he returned to hosting with renewed vigor, co-hosting the adventure Mr. Player starting in 2018 alongside and KID, which earned him a 2021 Golden Bell Award nomination for Best Reality or Game Show Host. In 2019, he took on the role of co-host for the Taiwanese-language reality program I'm the Best in Taiwanese with Zhang Wen-qi, further demonstrating his adaptability across linguistic and cultural formats in television.

Other professional activities

In addition to his primary pursuits in , Huang ventured into by launching AES (Alien Evolution Studio), a clothing brand in September 2008 that integrated his distinctive rock and influences with deconstructed tailoring and creative motifs. The brand operated as a multifaceted space combining a design studio, retail outlet, and exhibition venue, reflecting Huang's passion for and custom figurines. Huang also developed a notable career in illustration, three books that showcased his artistic style through drawings, personal narratives, and conceptual sketches. His debut work, Too Fast to Live, Too Young to Die (2007), captured whimsical and introspective themes in a graphic format. This was followed by Alien Diary (2011), which delved into diary-like entries illustrated with his signature quirky visuals, and a 2015 release accompanying his album Alien, featuring a 36-page collection of personal sketches and stories that highlighted his evolving creative process. Beyond , Huang contributed as a to various projects, often tied to his releases and collaborations, exemplified his drive for artistic autonomy across media formats.

Personal life

Relationships

Huang's first known romantic relationship was with fellow entertainer during their high school years at Hwa Kang Arts School, where they dated for three years before parting ways amicably as Yang entered the entertainment industry. The pair maintained a close friendship afterward, with Huang publicly congratulating Yang on her engagement in 2019. In 2016, Huang was linked to model and singer NueNue, a member of the Weather Girls, after she was spotted staying overnight at his residence for 11 hours, prompting him to describe her as his preferred type and update his relationship status accordingly. Their rumored relationship, which featured several public sightings together over approximately three years, ended around 2019, after which Huang clarified they remained friends. Huang's final relationship was with actress and cheerleader Wu Han-chun, known professionally as Qun Qun, which began in early 2019 and lasted about one and a half years in secrecy to protect their privacy. The couple occasionally appeared together publicly, though they agreed to keep details private until Qun Qun shared their story following Huang's passing in 2020.

Personal interests and lifestyle

Huang maintained a deep passion for , which originated from intensive training during his junior high years, when his father recognized his slim build and athletic coordination and invested significantly in professional coaching to potentially develop him as a golfer. Although he ultimately did not pursue professionally, he remained actively involved in the throughout his adult life, regularly participating in celebrity tournaments alongside and other activities that contributed to his energetic and health-conscious routine. His dedication to illustration and drawing served as a cherished personal outlet, rooted in early talents for that he nurtured from school days onward, where simple enjoyment of sketching gradually shaped his creative process across various endeavors. Huang published three books and organized multiple solo exhibitions, including "Dear PaPa" in February 2020 and the posthumous "" in 2021, which featured nearly 300 works spanning doodles to polished pieces, allowing him to express introspective themes away from his public persona. Based in Taipei's , Huang's urban lifestyle blended everyday routines with engagements in and subcultures, including his work with the streetwear brand Alien Evolution Studio, which had a store in the city's East District, where he explored trends like sneaker culture. He connected with alternative music scenes, reflecting his affinity for indie and rock influences. Throughout his fame, Huang adopted a balanced, low-profile approach, prioritizing support and personal stability over , which contributed to his reputation as a grounded figure in the entertainment industry.

Death and legacy

Circumstances of death

On September 16, 2020, Alien Huang was found unresponsive in his apartment in Taipei's by his father, who had visited around 11 a.m. for lunch and discovered him lying half-dressed between the bedroom and bathroom after what appeared to be a slip while preparing to shower. Huang, aged 36, was pronounced dead at the scene despite emergency medical efforts, having been alone in the apartment at the time. An autopsy conducted on September 18, 2020, revealed that Huang had suffered an aortic dissection, a tear in the aorta artery, leading to cardiovascular complications that caused his collapse and fall; no prior cardiovascular conditions were known or documented in his medical history. The death was officially ruled accidental, with investigators ruling out foul play or suicide based on the scene and forensic findings. A complete autopsy report released on October 27, 2020, confirmed the cause as cardiovascular complications from the aortic dissection, noting that Huang was single and living alone at the time.

Tributes and legacy

Following Alien Huang's death on September 16, 2020, numerous Taiwanese celebrities expressed their grief through statements and public messages, highlighting his warmth, talent, and impact on their lives. , Huang's ex-girlfriend and fellow entertainer, shared an emotional post stating, "Alien was a great artist in front and behind the camera and will be in the future, just in a different form. Thank you for being part of my life. It's a pity to lose you. But we didn't leave any regrets," reflecting on their shared history and his enduring artistic spirit. Industry peers like , Huang's longtime collaborator on variety shows such as 100% Entertainment, posted a simple yet poignant reaction: "Why would this happen?" conveying profound shock. , co-host of Mr. Player, wrote, "Xiao Gui, you promised me that we would play ball together. I will always love you! Your mission here is fulfilled, please go peacefully. We are your forever family," emphasizing their brotherly bond. Other figures, including , , and , shared similar sentiments of sadness and appreciation for Huang's kindness and support during collaborations. Fans and the media organized several commemorative events in the months following his passing, underscoring Huang's role in shaping Taiwanese variety hosting and youth-oriented . A public wake was held from September 19 to 21, 2020, at Longyan Hall in , attended by hundreds of fans and celebrities including , , and , allowing mourners to pay respects and share memories of his energetic on-screen presence. A star-studded titled The Most Romantic Concert on Earth took place on October 6, 2020, at Legacy , drawing 2,000 attendees and featuring performances by artists like , , and , who honored Huang's contributions to lively, youth-focused programming that blended music, humor, and adventure. The event, hosted by and Kid Lin and broadcast live, evoked tears and laughter through tributes that celebrated Huang's ability to connect with younger audiences via shows like Mr. Player. In 2021, on the first anniversary of his death, Taiwanese media outlets aired retrospectives and fan-led online vigils, focusing on his influence in promoting relatable, multifaceted that resonated with Gen Z viewers. Subsequent anniversaries continued this tradition; on the fourth anniversary in 2024, friends shared posts reminiscing about his kindness and talent. Marking the fifth anniversary in September 2025, actor Andie Chen, a longtime friend, posted a heartfelt tribute reflecting on their shared memories and Huang's lasting impact. Huang's legacy endures in Taiwanese entertainment as a model for multi-talented performers who excel across , , hosting, and , inspiring a new generation to pursue versatile careers without rigid specialization. His work on variety programs like 100% Entertainment and Mr. Player helped popularize interactive, outdoor formats that engaged young audiences with themes of and exploration, influencing subsequent hosts to adopt a similar approachable style. Posthumously, his three illustration books—Alien Evolution (2008), Little Ghost's World (2012), and Alien Sketches (2015)—have seen renewed interest among fans, who appreciate their whimsical depictions of daily life and creativity as extensions of his personality. While no major new releases have occurred since his death, Huang's maintains steady streaming popularity on platforms like , with tracks from albums such as Love & Hero (2009) and collaborations accumulating millions of plays annually as of 2025, driven by nostalgic playlists and revivals.

Discography

Solo studio albums and singles

Alien Huang's solo music career began after his departure from the band Cosmo in 2007, marking a shift toward independent releases that showcased his versatility in and rock genres. His discography includes five studio albums, each reflecting evolving personal and artistic expressions, often incorporating his background as an illustrator through thematic visuals and custom artwork elements. His debut solo studio album, Love & Hero (愛&英雄), was released on December 18, 2009, by and contains 11 tracks blending upbeat pop-rock with introspective on love, heroism, and self-discovery. The album's artwork features whimsical illustrations in Huang's distinctive cartoonish style, emphasizing playful yet emotional motifs that tie into the record's personal themes. It debuted at number one on Taiwan's G-Music Weekly Combo and Mandarin charts, selling 16.39% of units in its first week. The second album, Break Heart, Black Heart (黑心傷品), arrived on December 23, 2011, also via , with 10 tracks exploring heartbreak and resilience through mid-tempo ballads and energetic rock arrangements produced by a team including Huang himself on select compositions. Its incorporates Huang's hand-drawn elements, depicting shattered hearts in a stylized, illustrative manner that mirrors the album's emotional depth. The record topped the G-Music charts upon release, capturing 27.39% in its debut week. Make Sense (超有感), released on May 24, 2013, by , comprises 11 songs that delve into everyday emotions and relationships, featuring production notes highlighting Huang's with producers for a more acoustic-infused pop sound. The artwork draws from Huang's expertise, using vibrant, hand-sketched designs to convey sensory and relatable themes. It peaked at number four on the G-Music charts with 8.13% sales in one tracking period. In 2015, Alien was issued on September 25 by , a self-titled effort with 11 tracks that experiment with electronic pop and rock fusion, including production credits to Huang for lyrics and creative direction. The album's visuals prominently feature Huang's original illustrations, portraying alien-like figures symbolizing otherworldliness and identity exploration. Huang's final studio album, HUMAN., came out on November 23, 2018, under , featuring 10 introspective tracks on humanity and personal growth, with production emphasizing live instrumentation and Huang's . Its artwork integrates Huang's illustrative style through minimalist drawings of forms, tying into the album's philosophical undertones. A follow-up, Plan B, was released posthumously on November 28, 2020, compiling 8 tracks from earlier sessions with pop-oriented production. Key singles from his post-2007 solo era include "Fooling Around" (鬼混), a digital release on May 30, 2008, that introduced his rock-infused pop style with self-produced elements. "Heart Amulet" (御守之心), issued on July 9, 2010, served as a for promotional tie-ins, featuring heartfelt lyrics and mid-tempo production. "Transformers Cuz of You" (金剛變形), released September 20, 2011, peaked on Taiwan's digital charts and was noted for its upbeat, cinematic production inspired by soundtracks. Later singles like "Nevertheless" (2020) highlighted his mature vocal delivery in form.
Album TitleRelease DateLabelKey TracksChart Peak (G-Music, Taiwan)
Love & HeroDecember 18, 2009"Screwed It Up", "Toy Gun and Rose"#1 (16.39% debut share)
Break Heart, Black HeartDecember 23, 2011"Break Heart", "Black Heart"#1 (27.39% debut share)
Make SenseMay 24, 2013"Super Sensitive", "Make Sense"#4 (8.13% share)
AlienSeptember 25, 2015"Alien", "E.T."N/A
HUMAN.November 23, 2018"Human", "Evaporation"N/A

Group work with bands

Alien Huang's group work began with the Japanese-Taiwanese boy band HC3, formed in 2002 as a promotional project for TV Asahi's variety program Golden Legend. The trio consisted of Huang, fellow Taiwanese entertainer Chen Bolin, and Japanese performer Endo Shosaku, with the group adopting the playful name "Good Eats 3" (好吃3) to reflect their lighthearted, food-themed image. HC3's sole release was the debut single "We Are Friends" (我們是朋友), issued in July 2002 by Rock Records, which doubled as the theme song for the TV show and featured Huang's prominent rap verses alongside group vocals. The track emphasized themes of friendship and summer camaraderie, aligning with the program's adventurous segments. Limited to promotional activities tied to the television special, HC3 disbanded by the end of 2002 without further releases or extensive tours, marking Huang's brief entry into the music industry. In 2003, Huang joined Cosmo (丸子), a Taiwanese under , comprising Huang (as "Little Ghost" or 小鬼), Junior (Han Yibang), and Green Tea (Lin Junyong). After over a year of training focused on vocals, , and performance, the group debuted with the album Kanto Stew (關東煮) on October 14, 2003, blending pop, R&B, hip-hop, and rap elements with quirky, youthful . Huang played a key creative role, contributing and rap sections to multiple tracks, including the title song "Kanto Stew," a playful breakup anthem in where he delivered lead rap lines about resilience and metaphors. Other highlights featuring Huang's input include "Maruko Special Attack Team" (丸子特攻隊), an energetic group chant-driven track promoting their underdog spirit; "Love Flood" (愛氾濫), a Chinese-influenced R&B piece he helped write; and "Home Run" (全壘打), incorporating slang for romantic pursuit with his co-written verses. The album's eclectic style, produced with input from established collaborators, aimed at a teen audience but achieved only modest sales amid competition from established acts. Cosmo supported the release with promotional tours across , including live performances at malls, school events, and media appearances to engage fans, though the group disbanded in early due to insufficient commercial traction, allowing members to pursue solo paths.
BandReleaseYearKey Tracks Featuring HuangLabel
HC3"We Are Friends" (Single)2002"We Are Friends" (rap and vocals)
CosmoKanto Stew (Album)2003"Kanto Stew" (lead rap), "Maruko Special Attack Team" (vocals and lyrics), "Love Flood" (co-written lyrics), "Home Run" (co-written verses)

Collaborations and soundtrack contributions

Throughout his career, Alien Huang frequently collaborated with other artists on duets and featured tracks, particularly in the early , blending his pop-rock style with partners from the Taiwanese and Singaporean entertainment scenes. One notable joint project was his 2012 duet "愛的主旋律" (Melody of Love) with Genie Chuo, serving as the theme song for the Taiwanese drama Just You. The track, released under , showcased Huang's harmonious vocals alongside Chuo's, emphasizing romantic themes central to the series. Another collaboration from the same drama was "Beloved," where Huang and Chuo again paired up for the OST, contributing to the soundtrack's emotional depth with their complementary performances. Huang also extended his musical partnerships across borders, including a 2012 duet "牽掛" (Concern) with Singaporean singer for the drama Joys of Life. This bilingual track, which Huang co-performed, captured the series' themes of longing and relationships, and was released as part of the official soundtrack. These joint efforts highlighted Huang's versatility in blending Mandarin pop with dramatic narratives, often tying into his acting roles without overlapping into solo discography. In terms of soundtrack contributions, Huang provided key musical elements for several film and TV projects post-2010. For the 2011 Singaporean comedy film Already Famous, he composed, wrote lyrics for, and performed the theme song "謝謝你讓我等於你" (Thank You for Letting Me Equal You), which played during promotional events and credits, infusing the movie's lighthearted tone with upbeat energy. Additionally, for the 2014 Taiwanese drama Lovestore at the Corner, Huang contributed tracks to the OST, including performances that supported the series' romantic storyline, as featured on official releases. His soundtrack work often involved full creative input, such as lyrics and composition, establishing his role as a multifaceted contributor to multimedia projects.

Filmography

Television series and hosting

Huang began his television career in hosting, which marked a significant breakthrough following his early music endeavors. He co-hosted the popular Taiwanese variety and entertainment news program 100% Entertainment alongside from 2006 to 2015, contributing to its status as a staple in local broadcasting with segments focused on celebrity interviews, gossip, and light-hearted challenges. After a hiatus to prioritize and , Huang returned to hosting in 2018 as a co-host on the outdoor adventure Mr. Player with and Kid Lin, where the trio led games and physical challenges across episodes until his departure in 2020. In acting roles within television series, Huang portrayed the lead character He Zhong-qi, a charismatic CEO, in the 2012 romantic comedy-drama Sweet Sweet Bodyguard, which aired for 82 episodes on CTV and highlighted themes of protection and romance. He later took on the main role of Li Ze-xuan, a bookstore owner entangled in love and mystery, in the 2014 series Lovestore at the Corner, spanning 25 episodes. His final notable TV acting credit was as Hsu Da-cai in the 2017 comedy Running Man, a Taiwanese adaptation involving comedic chases and ensemble antics.
Program/SeriesRoleYears/Air DatesNetwork
100% EntertainmentCo-host (with )2006–2015GTV
Mr. PlayerCo-host (with Jacky Wu and Kid Lin)2018–2020EBC
Sweet Sweet BodyguardHe Zhong-qi (lead)2012 (82 episodes)CTV
Lovestore at the CornerLi Ze-xuan (main)2014 (25 episodes)PTS
Running ManHsu Da-cai2017CTi

Films

Huang made his debut in 2004 with a minor role in Holiday Dreaming as Xiao Gui, marking his early entry into acting alongside his music career. In 2007, he appeared in Burn! Motorbike as Hu Di-ni, a supporting role in a youth-oriented drama about motorbike culture. He followed this in 2009 with Black Tide as Xiao Gui, portraying a character in a thriller exploring urban undercurrents. Huang gained prominence in 2011 with a supporting role as Christopher in Already Famous, a comedy-drama about aspiring celebrities. His breakthrough came in 2012 as Ah Xian in Din Tao: Leader of the Parade, a lead role depicting a rival din-tao performer in a story inspired by real folk arts troupes; the film achieved significant commercial success, grossing NT$315 million at the box office. He continued with leading roles in subsequent films, including in 2015, Huang starred as Hsiung in Gatao, playing a navigating loyalty and rivalry upon release from prison; he also composed and wrote lyrics for the soundtrack song "Should Not" alongside Wesley Chia. Later credits include Hung Ti Suo in All Because of Love (), a supporting romantic role, and Ren Laifeng in Go! Crazy Gangster (2016), showcasing comedic timing in a farce. His final film role was Hanz Chang in Who is the Champion? (2018), leading as a determined fighter in an action-drama about perseverance and competition. Posthumously released films include Acting Out of Love (2020) as Ha Ha Ge in a supporting role, and Fat Hope (2024) as Nathan in a lead role in the Singaporean .
YearTitleRoleNotes
2004Holiday DreamingXiao GuiMinor role
2006A Flight to YesterdayLi Zheng-feiMinor role
2007Burn! MotorbikeHu Di-niSupporting role
2009Xiao GuiSupporting role
2011Already FamousChristopherSupporting role
2012Din Tao: Leader of the ParadeAh XianLead role; box office NT$315 million
2015GataoHsiungLead role; soundtrack contribution
2016Go! Crazy GangsterRen LaifengLead role
2017All Because of LoveHung Ti SuoSupporting role
2018Who is the Champion?Hanz ChangLead role
2020Acting Out of LoveHa Ha GeSupporting role
2024Fat HopeNathanLead role (posthumous)

Music video appearances

Alien Huang frequently appeared in music videos both as a lead performer in his solo and group projects and in supporting or cameo roles for other artists, leveraging his early training as a and his later creative involvement in direction and concept development. His contributions spanned from the early , when he featured in high-profile videos as part of his burgeoning career, to the 2010s, where he took on more collaborative and directorial roles. These appearances often highlighted his charismatic screen presence and ability to blend humor, emotion, and visual .

Cameos and Guest Appearances in Other Artists' Videos

Huang's non-lead roles in others' music videos were typically brief but memorable, often drawing on his versatility. Notable examples include:
YearArtistSongRole/Notes
2012Sam Lee (李聖傑)最近 (Recently)Special guest appearance alongside Wu Ya-xin (吳亞馨), portraying a in a about emotional distance and unspoken feelings. Directed by Chin-cheh Chin (金卓).
2019NekoJam (妮可醬)有鬼 (This Way) feat. Alien HuangCameo as a key character in a "ghost tag" game concept critiquing superficiality; also served as director, incorporating reality-vs.-virtual themes with the group members running through school settings.
These guest spots in the reflected Huang's established status in the Taiwanese music scene, allowing him to collaborate with emerging acts while adding depth to thematic visuals.

Lead Roles in Solo and Group Music Videos

As a solo and band member, Huang starred in dozens of music videos tied to his , frequently infusing them with personal artistic touches like illustration-inspired concepts or directorial input. During his time with the TV-formed band HC3 (2002–2003), he appeared as the character Maruko in energetic, friendship-themed videos. With his later band Maruko Cosmo (2005–2007), the visuals emphasized playful, youthful narratives. His solo videos from the onward often featured introspective or romantic motifs, with Huang directing several to align with his multifaceted creative persona. Key examples include:

HC3 Group Videos (as Maruko)

  • 2003: "我們是朋友" (We Are Friends) – Group performance video capturing camaraderie among band members in casual, fun settings.

Maruko Cosmo Group Videos (as )

  • 2005: "關東煮" () – Humorous depiction of everyday life and band antics, directed to evoke nostalgic culture.
  • 2005: "愛妳卡農" (Canon Love) – Romantic ensemble video blending elements with pop visuals.
  • 2006: "Perfect的完結" () – Narrative closure-themed video showcasing band dynamics in a story of resolution.

Solo Videos (Selected, Tied to Singles)

  • 2015: "地球上最浪漫的一首歌" (The Most Romantic Song on Earth) – Whimsical, heartfelt with Huang as a dreamer in urban scenes, emphasizing emotional vulnerability; directed by himself.
  • 2020: "扛得住" (Carry On) feat. Alan Kuo and Bobby Dou – Motivational collaboration video with friends supporting each other through challenges, released posthumously as a legacy piece; illustrative elements highlight resilience. [Note: Linked to discography track for context.]
  • 2019: "蒸發" (Evaporation) – Introspective visuals exploring loss and transience, featuring special appearances by friends like 831 (八三夭); Huang directed, incorporating abstract, evaporating motifs.
These videos not only promoted his music but also served as platforms for Huang's visual artistry, often blending his background with cinematic to enhance the songs' emotional impact.

Awards and honors

Music awards

Alien Huang garnered recognition for his musical contributions through various regional awards in , primarily honoring his solo releases and performances. These accolades highlighted his popularity in and , where he won honors for chart performance, stage presence, and fan appeal.
YearAward CeremonyCategoryDetails
2011Most Popular Male SingerRecognized for his rising popularity as a singer in the Singapore market.
2011Hottest Web Celeb (omy 網絡紅人獎)Honored for online popularity.
2011Most Recommended Album of the YearFor Love & Hero (港臺年度推薦唱片).
2013Most Popular Male Artiste AwardHonored for overall popularity among male artists.
2013MERADIO Top Downloaded Hit Award (Male Artiste)Awarded for the song "Make Sense" based on download metrics.
2013F&N Fruit Tree Fresh Stylish Artiste AwardAcknowledged for his stylish persona in the music industry.
2014hito流行音樂獎hito網路首播人氣Won for the /single "超有感" (Make Sense) due to online premiere popularity.
2014hito流行音樂獎hito舞台演繹Recognized for exceptional stage performance.
These wins underscored Huang's appeal in pop music across Chinese-speaking regions, with no major nominations or victories recorded at the Golden Melody Awards.

Television and other awards

Huang's contributions to the variety show 100% Entertainment, where he co-hosted from 2005 onward, earned him significant recognition in Taiwanese television. In 2015, he was nominated for the Golden Bell Award for Best Host in a Variety Programme, shared with co-host Show Lo, highlighting his engaging on-screen presence and role in elevating the program's popularity. In 2019, Huang received a posthumous nomination for the Golden Bell Award for Best Host in a Puzzle and Reality Programme for Mr. Player, shared with co-hosts Jacky Tsung and Kid. These honors underscored Huang's versatility as a variety host, with the Golden Bell nominations affirming his impact on entertainment news and celebrity interviews within 100% Entertainment and other programs.

References

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