A Star Returns

Dai Xiangyu, The Ex-mediacorp Leading Man, On How The Local Acting Scene Taught Him To Survive China's Fierce Entertainment Industry. By Ng Yi Lian

Formerly known as Dai Yangtian, Dai Xiangyu moved to Singapore in 2007 after he was discovered by a talent scout in Shanghai in 2006. His first accommodation, he said, was a helper's room in a Thomson Road condominium. Looking at our widened eyes, he smiled, "I was in my early 20s and did not have much money and the rent was really high at $800 per month; I lived like that for two years. Most people assume actors have lots of money, but that is definitely not the case when you are a newcomer. It never bothered me and I was just happy to have a safe and comfortable bed to come home to after long days of work."

The 38-year-old's disarming humility and straightforward personality did exactly that from the beginning of our interview: disarm. While not necessarily politically correct, his candid answers were refreshing and he did not shy away from any of the questions posed. He also made it clear to the hair and makeup artist from the beginning that she had free rein with his hair and face.

"Acting is just a job to me," Dai said matter-of-factly. "Even me sitting here right now, getting makeup on my face and chatting with you-they're all part of my job. If I'm given a choice, the introverted me would never choose to do all these if they're not part of my job." If he's not working, he would be at the gym every morning or at the park chatting to old gentlemen to hear about their life stories. "To be honest, I think that's work too." Dai explained, "Even though I'm curious by nature, learning how others live and struggle help me add depth to the roles I play. I'm willing to do anything and work really hard to make sure I excel at my job."