Taiwanese singer Li Mao Shan was once a household name in Asia’s entertainment industry, having won a Golden Melody Award in 1991 and a Golden Bell Award in 1993.

However, his career came to an abrupt halt in 1999 after he racked up debts of NT$200mil (RM27.2mil) to NT$300mil (RM40.8mil) due to a gambling addiction.

Faced with relentless pressure from debt collectors, Li left Taiwan with his family and has since stayed out of the public eye.

It’s reported that the 65-year-old settled in Malaysia first before moving to Singapore.

According to recent reports from Hong Kong media, Li was seen working as a waiter at a restaurant in mainland China.

From time to time, he would also take the stage to entertain guests but often downplayed his identity by simply saying he looked like Li Mao Shan.

Unfazed by the shift in his career, Li was quoted by Hong Kong news portal Dimsum Daily saying: “A hero doesn’t fear humble beginnings.”

Reports suggest that Li’s fortunes have improved in recent years. In fact, he held a solo concert at Arena of Stars, Resorts World Genting, in June 2019.

Although he has reportedly cleared his debts, Li still refrains from returning to Taiwan, wary of encountering his creditors.

While many fans remain hopeful for a comeback, sources indicate that the Silent Ending hitmaker has no plans to re-enter the entertainment industry.

“He doesn’t want to come out for now,” said Taiwanese singer Lin Shu Rong in an interview last year. She had previously performed alongside Li in 2007, 2008 and 2013.