Suzanne Whang, the woman whose voice and faced opened House Hunters on HGTV for years, died on Tuesday evening after a lengthy battle with breast cancer.
Shew as 56 years old.
The tragic news was confirmed by Suzanne’s partner, Jeff Vezain, who noted on Facebook that he was by Whang’s side when died at their Los Angeles home.
Suzanne had been diagnosed with breast cancer 13 years ago but Jeff wrote she always confronted it with "courage, humor, determination and optimism."
He expounded in far more emotional detail as follows:
“Suzanne Whang (1962-2019). A lifetime of love, adventure, humor and bliss now lives in our memories.
"On Tuesday evening around 7:20pm, Suzanne breathed her last breath here at home, as I knelt beside her and caressed her.”
Whang grew into an HGTV fan favorite during her nine years hosting episodes of the immensely popular House Hunters series.
But she was also an actress with supporting roles on numerous TV movies and TV series, including, General Hospital, Criminal Minds and NYPD Blue.
She was born in Arlington, Virginia and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Yale University, while also earning a master’s degree in cognitive psychology from Brown University.
Continued Vezain in his tribute:
For thirteen years she confronted cancer with courage, humor, determination and optimism. She was immensely encouraged by the love of her family, friends and those she had yet to meet.
Your kind, loving messages always lifted her spirits.
I know she would prefer that her life be celebrated, as opposed to her passing mourned, but I also know how vehemently she disagreed with anyone being told, “Don’t cry.” So…cry if you will. I’ve been crying a LOT! And laughing…and everything in between.
It’s all part of life, but laughter was a staple of our dynamic.
Whang’s most memorable acting role was likely as Polly Nguyen on four seasons of Las Vegas.
Vezain went on as follows:
Her audacious sense of humor blessed many, shocked a few, but allowed us to laugh in the face of adversity. She was an amazing daughter, sister, friend, mentor and advocate.
And he concluded:
As I, her family and her closest friends process her transition, we ask for your prayers and loving thoughts.
We have appreciated all of the kind words and memories shared on her Facebook page. It has brought much comfort.
As I say good bye to a soul who was more than a true love, but also a best friend and an intellectual and spiritual book-end, know that we may not be able to respond to queries, but will try to keep you updated. Thank you.
Whang also worked as radio host, published author, minister, writer, producer and political activist.
We send our condolences to her friends, family members and loved ones.
May Suzanne Whang rest in peace.