Veteran Singapore entertainer and renowned ventriloquist, Victor Khoo passed away on Friday morning after a long battle with cancer. He was 63 years old.
Mr Khoo is best known by many for his ventriloquist act Charlee and his Saturday morning radio shows in the 1970s.
Acclaimed jazz musician and cultural medallion award recipient, Jeremy Monterio paid a tribute to the Mr Khoo in a facebook status,
Very sad to learn that Singaporean Entertainment Icon, Live, Radio and TV show host, Puppeteer, Comedian, Magician, Ventriloquist and old friend Victor Khoo passed away today from cancer at the age of 63.
He was the best multi-disciplined entertainer in Singapore that I knew.
We saw each other a lot from the late 70s through the mid 90s before we went in different directions. He was a consummate professional and a really good guy.
Statement from the family of the Mr Khoo:
We are sad to announce that our dear husband, father, brother and uncle, Victor Khoo, passed away peacefully early this morning. He had fought bravely against cancer for some years. He was 63 years old.
Many people remember Victor for the huge impact he had on the entertainment scene, in Singapore and abroad. He was a pioneer in so many ways, from his early days in Rediffusion, to his defining corporate events, to film making, and of course his iconic work with Charlee – whom he always considered a business partner. He played a major role in the evolution of numerous aspects of the live entertainment scene. His jokes are still being retold at events today.
We remember him for his generosity, his wit, his unfailing optimism, and his warmth and affection. He always had time for his family and close friends. Even at the end, he had a smile and a squeeze of the hand for us and all who visited.
Victor leaves behind his sons Barry (and his wife, Madeline) and Brandon, from his first marriage to the late Lam May Yee; he is survived by his wife Shellen, and daughters, Victoria and Vanessa. Victor came from a large family with 11 siblings in all; he leaves them behind together with his siblings-in-law and many nephews, nieces, grand nephews and grand nieces.
We will miss him terribly.
Video of late Victor Khoo from his portfolio website.
