Host of popular TV show Suzanne Whang dies aged 56
Suzanne Whang – whose smooth, calm voice provided the narration for US TV channel HGTV's “House Hunters” for years – has died at the age of 56.
Her death on Tuesday was confirmed on Friday (local time) by her long-time agent, Eddie Culbertson.
Whang first gained fame as the on-screen host of the show, where anxious home buyers are shown trying to choose between three potential options.
Later, she was moved to the narration role only, but her recognisable voice was as much a draw as the homes.
Culbertson says Whang was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006 and in 2011 she was told she would not live a year.
Whang beat the disease for years until it returned in October 2018.
Culbertson says Whang — who was also a comedian and actress— included her cancer battle in stage performances.
“Her courage, humour, determination and optimism, with which she notably confronted the disease, emboldened and gave hope to countless others facing serious life challenges,” he said in a statement.
“She remained a loving spirit, and in the end she passed away peacefully at home with her great love by her side, having been true to herself and the journey she chose.”
Whang is survived by her parents and a sister.
In a post to her Facebook account, her partner, Jeff Vezain, said he knelt beside Whang as she took her last breath about 7.20pm (local time) on Tuesday.
“For thirteen years she confronted cancer with courage, humour, determination and optimism. She was immensely encouraged by the love of her family, friends and those she had yet to meet. Your kind, loving messages always lifted her spirits,” he wrote.
He asked she be celebrated rather than mourned as that was what she would have preferred.
“As I say goodbye to a soul who was more than a true love, but also a best friend and an intellectual and spiritual book-end, know that we may not be able to respond to queries, but will try to keep you updated,” Mr Vezain said.
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