Teresa Teng’s Last Days: Butler Reveals Her Final Moments

New details have emerged surrounding the final moments of Taiwanese singer Teresa Teng, who died unexpectedly 31 years ago. Teng, a legendary figure in Asian pop music, passed away on May 8, 1995, in Chiang Mai, Thailand, at the age of 42.

Teresa Teng’s Final Hours

Teng had been vacationing in Thailand when she suffered a severe asthma attack while staying at the Imperial Mae Ping Hotel. She was later pronounced dead at Chiang Mai Ram Hospital due to respiratory failure.

At the time of her death, an autopsy was not performed at the request of her partner, Frenchman Paul Quilery, who was not present at the hotel when the incident occurred.

Billy, Teng’s former personal butler in Thailand, has now publicly shared his account of that day for the first time. He described Teng as appearing “normal” when he delivered her breakfast.

However, her condition rapidly deteriorated in the afternoon. After exercising and taking a bath, Teng experienced severe shortness of breath while Quilery was out. Billy attempted to get help, but her condition became critical before assistance arrived.

Billy revealed that Teng did not have any emergency medication with her, and her hands and feet began to spasm and go numb. Traffic delays further hampered their journey to the hospital.

It was later discovered, through a police investigation of the hotel room, that Teng had bathed after exercising. “I didn’t know she was bathing,” Billy said, expressing regret that he couldn’t have intervened. “If she felt unwell, she would have come out — I couldn’t go in.”

Billy stated he was instructed by hotel management to remain silent about the incident and even changed his name as a result. He is now able to share his story after those restrictions were lifted.

The revelations have prompted online discussion, with some commenters pointing to the potential dangers of showering immediately after exercise, suggesting it could trigger asthma symptoms.

“Exercising and taking deep breaths, then inhaling steam without resting can trigger asthma. I’ve experienced that too — I understand,” one commenter wrote.

Billy has since learned first aid in hopes of being better prepared for future emergencies. The tragedy has remained a significant burden for him over the years.