Chew Chor Meng Illness: What Disease Does Chew Chor Meng Have?
by Harini
Updated Jul 12, 2023
Chew Chor Meng Illness
Chew Chor Meng, a renowned local actor whose career took off after winning Star Search in 1990 and is best known for his role in Don't Worry, Be Happy, faces a challenging health condition that would typically spell the end of an acting career. However, the 54-year-old actor remains undeterred by his diagnosis of Kennedy's Disease, an untreatable motor disorder that gradually weakens and atrophies the facial and limb muscles, as well as the muscles involved in swallowing.
In a recent interview with 8world for his new drama Family Ties, Chew expressed that his condition is currently manageable, although he preferred not to delve further into the matter. Despite his illness, he remains grateful for the opportunities he has been given to continue acting.
Chew acknowledged that his limited mobility has affected his acting skills. He now focuses primarily on his lines and facial expressions, wishing for more agility in his movements to enhance his performance.
Although Chew's circumstances have presented challenges, his passion for acting remains undiminished. He, however, does not have high expectations of winning any acting awards. Reflecting on his 15 years of illness, he expressed gratitude for being able to continue his career and stand strong. While he would be grateful for a nomination, he is cautious about expecting more.
Chew last received an acting award at the Star Awards in 2009, where he won the Best Supporting Actor category for his role in the drama series The Golden Path. Although he has since been nominated in various categories, he has yet to secure another win. In recent years, he was nominated for Best Supporting Actor but lost to Jeffrey Xu and Brandon Wong in 2022 and 2023, respectively.
Chew's current focus is on keeping both his body and mind active while cherishing every acting opportunity that comes his way. Despite the challenges posed by his condition, he maintains a determined spirit and remains an inspiration to those around him.
What Disease Does Chew Chor Meng Have?
Chew Chor Meng, the esteemed local actor with a career spanning decades, grapples with a formidable affliction that casts a shadow over his life. This ailment, known as Kennedy's Disease, is an insidious and untreatable motor disorder that stealthily undermines his physical prowess.
Kennedy's Disease manifests its relentless grip by gradually sapping the strength and vitality of Chew's facial and limb muscles, leaving them weakened and atrophied. Even the once effortless act of swallowing becomes a daunting challenge for him, as the muscles involved in this vital function succumb to the disease's relentless progression.
In the face of this adversarial health condition, Chew Chor Meng, a name synonymous with resilience and talent, refuses to allow it to eclipse his passion for acting. Despite the immense difficulties posed by his debilitated musculature, he tenaciously embraces each acting opportunity that comes his way, defying the limitations imposed upon him.
With unwavering determination, Chew soldiers on, though his physicality has been irrevocably altered. He must now channel his energy into honing his lines and mastering the subtle art of facial expression, for his movements, once agile and dynamic, have been restrained. He yearns for a return to the nimbleness of his prime, believing that such mobility would catapult his performances to new heights.
Though beset by the formidable challenges imposed by Kennedy's Disease, Chew Chor Meng remains unwavering in his dedication to his craft. While the prospect of winning accolades may seem elusive, he clings to unwavering gratitude for each day he can continue to stand before the camera, defying the odds stacked against him.
His illustrious career, dotted with moments of triumph, has seen him claim prestigious honors, such as the Best Supporting Actor trophy at the Star Awards in 2009 for his outstanding portrayal in the drama series The Golden Path. Despite subsequent nominations in subsequent years, the coveted award has eluded his grasp, slipping through his fingers as his contemporaries claim victory.
Undeterred by this elusive recognition, Chew Chor Meng's primary focus lies in maintaining the vibrancy of his body and mind, nurturing his talent and seizing each acting opportunity with unwavering gusto. In the face of adversity, he stands tall, an embodiment of courage and determination, leaving an indelible impression on all who witness his remarkable journey.
Chor Meng Health Problems
On the 19th of December 2008, Chew Chor Meng, in a solemn revelation during a church event, disclosed his battle with Kennedy's disease, a form of muscular dystrophy. This debilitating illness had started to manifest itself while he was filming his latest role as Wang Zhongkun in Love Blossoms II, causing him to experience a noticeable limp.
The diagnosis had been made in September of the same year, and Chew had initially chosen to confide in the local press about his condition, urging them to withhold reporting on it as he grappled with the psychological impact of the news.
His original plan had been to officially disclose his illness during the upcoming Star Awards 2008 ceremony, scheduled for March 2009. However, the visible signs of his deteriorating health made it increasingly difficult to keep the matter under wraps.
Kennedy's disease has not only affected Chew's muscles but has also given rise to additional health complications, including cardiac problems and diabetes. Confronted with these challenges, Chew sought solace and support by becoming a member of a local disabled sports club.
To strengthen his body and maintain his resilience, he has embarked on swimming lessons, diligently striving to overcome the physical limitations imposed by his condition.
Chew Chor Meng's journey with Kennedy's disease has been one of resilience, determination, and a steadfast commitment to living life to the fullest despite the adversities he faces. By embracing physical activities and seeking camaraderie within the disabled sports community, he exemplifies an unwavering spirit that refuses to be defined by his health struggles.
Who is Chew Chor?
Chew Chor Meng is a multifaceted Singaporean talent, renowned for his prowess as an actor, television host, and successful businessman. He holds the distinguished honor of being among the inaugural group of actors to receive the coveted All-Time Favourite Artiste award in 2004, a testament to his enduring popularity and unwavering impact on the entertainment industry.
Chew's artistic journey has been a tapestry woven with versatility and charisma. With an innate ability to captivate audiences, he effortlessly transitions between roles, bringing characters to life with depth and authenticity that resonates with viewers. His acting prowess, honed over years of dedication and unwavering commitment, has established him as a pillar of Singaporean entertainment.
In addition to his remarkable achievements in the realm of entertainment, Chew Chor Meng has also ventured into the realm of entrepreneurship. His acumen and vision have propelled him to success in the business arena, demonstrating his ability to navigate diverse spheres with equal finesse.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Chew's warm and amiable personality endears him to both fans and colleagues alike. His affable nature and genuine interactions reflect humility and grace that further elevate his standing as a beloved figure in the industry.
Throughout his illustrious career, Chew Chor Meng has etched his name into the annals of Singaporean entertainment history, leaving an indelible mark as an exceptional artist, revered television host, and astute entrepreneur. His enduring popularity, coupled with his unwavering dedication to his craft, positions him as an influential and inspirational figure, whose contributions continue to enrich the cultural fabric of Singapore.
Name
Chew Chor Meng
Born:
20 November 1968 (age 54)
Place of Birth:
Singapore
Education:
Pei Chun Public School, Holy Innocents' High School
Alma Mater:
Ngee Ann Polytechnic
Occupations:
Actor, Host, Businessman
Years Active:
1990–present
Spouse:
Deon Chew (married in 2000)
Children:
2
Chew Chor Meng Illness FAQ
Chew Chor Meng has Kennedy's Disease which is an insidious and untreatable motor disorder that stealthily undermines his physical prowess.
Chew Chor Meng was diagnosed with Kennedy's Disease in September 2008, although he officially revealed his illness during a church event on the 19th of December 2008.
Kennedy's Disease has limited Chew Chor Meng's mobility, affecting his acting skills. He now focuses primarily on his lines and facial expressions, wishing for more agility in his movements to enhance his performances.
In addition to muscular complications, Chew Chor Meng has also experienced cardiac problems and diabetes as a result of Kennedy's Disease, adding to the complexities of his health situation.
Chew Chor Meng remains resilient in the face of his health challenges. He has become a member of a local disabled sports club and actively engages in swimming lessons to strengthen his body, demonstrating his determination to overcome the limitations imposed by his condition.