Chan lived alone and spent most of his adult life largely estranged from his family. The stress and unwanted attention created by reporters lead many of his family members to change their phone numbers and ending all communication with Chan. He had an inconsistent work history doing labour-based jobs (like dish washing) and spent long stretches unemployed. He received public benefits and financial support from his elderly mother. After his identity was revealed, Chan was criticized for reportedly demanding remuneration for interviews. In an interview with Next Magazine Chan provided strange and far-fetched details about his life leading most people to speculate that he is either lying or may suffer from mental-illness. Though Chan certainly conflated and exaggerated details about his life, it is interesting to note that his brother is known to tell people that Chan was sentenced to eight years in a Belgian prison after being apprehended with a large amount of heroin. 24 December 2017 Roger Chan passed away, presumably in China. His death was confirmed by members of his family, but no other details were provided.