Wai Ching Ho, the actress recognized for her impactful role as Madame Gao in the Marvel Netflix series “Daredevil,” “The Defenders,” and “Iron Fist,” has died at the age of 82. Her death was confirmed after a stroke, according to actor Perry Yung.
Co-star Peter Shinkoda shared tributes on Instagram, reflecting on his time working with Ho. "I won’t ever forget you," Shinkoda wrote, alongside a photo of himself and Ho. "I learned every minute from you when we were together on and off set. I know wisdom – I’d hang on your every word. We will meet again, my friend. You were beautiful."
Ho was remembered by Yung as "a kind, compassionate human being whose work as an artist lifted every production to a higher standard." He noted that he had the "enormous good fortune of having played her husband" in the film “High Resolution.”
Fans also paid their respects in social media comments, with one user writing, "Her performance was so good and haunting at the same time. Condolences and may she RIP." Another remarked, "She was absolutely fantastic. Rest in peace Madame Gao."
Beyond her role as the formidable Madame Gao, Ho's career included a role as Grandma Wu in Pixar's animated film “Turning Red.” She also made appearances in television shows such as “Awkwafina is Nora From Queens,” “Only Murders in the Building,” and “Law & Order.”
Ho was seen in a 2017 still from "The Defenders."
She also appeared in "Lovely, Dark and Deep" in 2023. 