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Veteran TV host Kevin Tsai is speaking out after his recent appearances at political events for both major parties in Taipei captured headlines. In a candid interview, Tsai opened up about why he chose to step into the political arena, the personal price he has paid, and why he believes standing up for the LGBTQ+ community is worth the fight. His heartfelt remarks have struck a chord with viewers, drawing more than a million views in less than 24 hours.
Legendary TV host Kevin Tsai recently captured headlines, after attending political events for both KMT and DPP mayoral candidates in Taipei. On Thursday evening, he spoke about his thoughts on a radio show hosted by Wang Wei-chung.
Tsai said that he was very glad to have stepped out of the box, jokingly remarking that if he had not done it, he would’ve just withered away with a tranquil life. On the matter of elections, he said that simply voting for the life you want is a win. He warned against seeking the easy way out to avoid conflict and settling for a life of comfort in wealth, resting on one’s laurels. Wang suggested that Tsai had not always escaped from conflict unscathed. Tsai agreed, saying he had suffered tremendous losses, but remarked: “If you can weather the storm but don’t put yourself through it, isn’t that a waste?” He said that latching on to fame was useless, if it is not used to kindle a fire that emits warmth and light.
Kevin Tsai (Nov. 29, 2001)
TV Host
There are people out there who can’t be as free as I am, due to different circumstances. If I can freely and openly offer these people encouragement or comfort, it is truly a big honor for me.
Kevin Tsai was one of the first high-profile Taiwanese entertainers to come out as gay. It was partly the reason why he decided to become more involved in politics.
Wang said he had heard that Tsai got into politics because he was furious after Taipei police raided several gay bars in Ximen earlier this month. Tsai confirmed that was indeed the case, saying, “What else could I do?” adding that “If we stop caring, we’ll just be letting teens aged 17 and 18 keep getting oppressed to death.” As a publicly out figure under the spotlight, he said he felt the need to resist. If he doesn’t stand his ground, he says, how are kids supposed to tell their parents that being gay is OK?
On Friday, Taipei Mayoral Candidate Puma Shen says he was deeply touched by Tsai’s words.
Puma Shen
Taipei Mayoral Candidate (DPP)
The raids that the Taipei City Government conducted earlier this month caused much outrage among the gay community. Though we look like leaders of the first country in Asia to pass a law to legalize same-sex marriage, there is room for improvement in many areas when it comes to LGBT+ issues. What Kevin Tsai said yesterday was extremely moving. I think the government should take these issues very seriously and tactfully, to create an inclusive environment. This is a responsibility the government must shoulder and it is something I will continue working towards in the future.
Kevin Tsai’s interview racked up more than 1 million views in less than 24 hours. Among the people responding to it was the Taipei 101 Chairwoman Janet Chia. She took to social media, saying that she adored Kevin Tsai, saying that his words had let her see the power of intellectuals and the depth of a truly cultivated soul. Other commenters said the interview had made them emotional and brought them to tears. Others praised Tsai’s calm demeanor and unwavering courage. Others said Tsai’s words showed he was a person with a heart of gold and a spine of steel.
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