Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) 26-Yr Wait Was Like A “Very Long and Lonely Marathon”

Source Website: https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/local/cynthia-koh-best-supporting-actress-26-year-wait-between-acting-awards-sa2025-845166
By Bryan Wong, 8days, 07 July 2025 at 08:00 pm


 Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn), 51-year-old tells 8days.sg she had to become her own cheerleader to find the strength to keep going.
PHOTO: Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) 51-year-old tells 8days.sg she had to become her own cheerleader to find the strength to keep going.
Picture posted by Bryan Wong, 8days on 07 July 2025 at 08:00 pm
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3_E1Jvn6iB5OA6mhWnBfV0JcDnxv7ngmjRSOA2ssZPvzkNDaH86ZSkyckuszbEb7ZpLPmGONWQXVJHlyNMSplsqqrNTfTycWvFNMY8RbRutn9VQgRvQUBzyAY8LDoQCHgY9ZxiIo7KYWKJWyPPN7EzfFaS5pRwnOxE404CmTxNxJ0yMZqav9oc2bbet8/s1920/cynthia_koh_best_supporting_actress_star_awards_2025_1.png
https://dam.mediacorp.sg/image/upload/s--HsUxSUiD--/c_lfill,dpr_2.0,g_face:auto,h_800/f_auto,q_auto/v1/mediacorp/8days/image/2025/07/07/cynthia_koh_best_supporting_actress_star_awards_2025.png?itok=HcN8JYKq
https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/local/cynthia-koh-best-supporting-actress-26-year-wait-between-acting-awards-sa2025-845166


Did you know that it has been 26 years since Mediacorp actress Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) took home a Star Award for acting?

In 1999, she won Best Actress for her iconic role as the spunky Hong Dou in historical drama Stepping Out. She famously shaved her head to play the character.

“It has been a very long 26 years!” she exclaims with a laugh when we brought it up.


 After 26 years, and six nominations later, Cynthia will not be going home disappointed
PHOTO: After 26 years, and six nominations later, Cynthia will not be going home disappointed 
Picture posted by Bryan Wong, 8days on 07 July 2025 at 08:00 pm
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeVG-qdLk7Gs32dFeT8In-_SRoK7G1cnFSlAomV7roSl5Yv39IVhwUVVKYRjkxeJsqZ9TdZRzAdgyiq1Qt7Q7fMe0m-rP8QjbaE0WB2eDS6d8TGN4oV8UT6Sh-nWbnFoe1ekgFK1EltqSHDAPwOEo_fbMCVmGWaKebq7hEK1kNuZv0SgUC8u2pFBxbWxM/s1600/rik_7313_1.png
https://dam.mediacorp.sg/image/upload/s--LmO-LBAu--/c_lfill,dpr_2.0,g_face:auto,h_800/f_auto,q_auto/v1/mediacorp/8days/image/2025/07/07/rik_7313.jpg?itok=fa4awAAf
https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/local/cynthia-koh-best-supporting-actress-26-year-wait-between-acting-awards-sa2025-845166


This year, Cynthia takes home her first Best Supporting actress award for playing a devoted mother caring for her paralysed daughter in Hope Afloat.

It is her sixth nomination in the category.


 She won for her role as a devoted mother caring for her paralysed daughter in Hope Afloat
PHOTO: She won for her role as a devoted mother caring for her paralysed daughter in Hope Afloat 
Picture posted by Bryan Wong, 8days on 07 July 2025 at 08:00 pm
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEiF-JNBHi8-1Hw-WYdTe8bDwMi-oEPmGLUWnoZvIpQHe44wa0qca2e0jAP5pOfxlwn1t7kl2p-bX97vCR7civLPvt8LvIYbDzhtkoBdaQD3hw9RE1HDIYu7ZTYdu6pZfxkB-sUXif7GMVQcXwYFIngKkvIJwBfISQgPTFhrqkILOC6-gx4nQg0bJhmmk/s1179/img_0444_1.png
https://dam.mediacorp.sg/image/upload/s--SJ8kqgzK--/c_lfill,dpr_2.0,g_face:auto,h_800/f_auto,q_auto/v1/mediacorp/8days/image/2025/07/07/img_0444.jpeg?itok=SEMcz9YB
https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/local/cynthia-koh-best-supporting-actress-26-year-wait-between-acting-awards-sa2025-845166


Before Cynthia’s name was announced, we spotted her shaking her head nervously, even reaching out to hold fellow nominee, Tasha Low’s hand.

Was the 51-year-old bracing herself for disappointment again?

Turns out, yes.

Cynthia admits to 8days.sg she was only giving herself a 50 per cent chance of winning.


 Tasha Low (left) hugging Cynthia Koh (right) who wins her first Best Supporting Actress nod at the Star Awards 2025
PHOTO: Tasha Low (left) hugging Cynthia Koh (right) who wins her first Best Supporting Actress nod at the Star Awards 2025 
Picture posted by Bryan Wong, 8days on 07 July 2025 at 08:00 pm
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5C1WSEe-pgKvY1MhZoDOBuvaA54kKsCquuV7RWxzlTgKqbrY7vJ_s_WnBhi6KVDeX1WBlxeXYM1d0UkT6oJryDuQgf-hEmomXM4kVWrhbBvTrXMrgN6ZH720nw8ca9-gclZsccIFqfeXrU0gURxjXhDuKqdXVVkd_aUvb1ZRaLpc1oIGqQJqgR8l6nVg/s1172/img_0443_1.png
https://dam.mediacorp.sg/image/upload/s--hw4d50dP--/c_lfill,dpr_2.0,g_face:auto,h_800/f_auto,q_auto/v1/mediacorp/8days/image/2025/07/07/img_0443.jpeg?itok=7fB3qxtS
https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/local/cynthia-koh-best-supporting-actress-26-year-wait-between-acting-awards-sa2025-845166


But can anyone blame her?

“Many times, I left the Star Awards feeling very disappointed when I went home empty-handed. I would then force myself to go to bed just to stop overthinking,” she shares, her voice quivering slightly.

When we ask if it feels like a weight has been lifted off her shoulders after her win, Cynthia goes on to describe career as a “very long and lonely marathon race”.

“It has been tiring, and at times, demoralising. Looking back, I really wonder where I kept finding the strength to keep going at it,” she says.


 It has been tiring, and at times, demoralising. Looking back, I really wonder where I kept finding the strength to keep going at it
PHOTO: “It has been tiring, and at times, demoralising. Looking back, I really wonder where I kept finding the strength to keep going at it,” says Cynthia 
Picture posted by Bryan Wong, 8days on 07 July 2025 at 08:00 pm
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVLyc53z6gj17iEMdGnxXGTSvVqeE_qLpRVe3jRZ8JZXIGBYFJwsmTqtPkV6sXrptfEHjVAAGo2-HtCnJDNjaSE6AzCCs2PGBFXjhyCR0NzT5FeQ3XlZMGIos0Ah-l_JdP2jKAP0UNxAdBNYT6DhS1WbcqW-JUDwXXUai6quzqpnHHCw9Kzg55RS1ug9o/s1600/il_0749_1.png
https://dam.mediacorp.sg/image/upload/s--r8Mtz9AN--/c_lfill,dpr_2.0,g_face:auto,h_800/f_auto,q_auto/v1/mediacorp/8days/image/2025/07/07/il_0749.jpg?itok=Q8rCBSZ5
https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/local/cynthia-koh-best-supporting-actress-26-year-wait-between-acting-awards-sa2025-845166


“At the end of the day, I realised that I must be my own cheerleader, which gave me the strength for my endeavours,” she added.

When we pointed out that many of her colleagues, and of course, her fans, have often named her as someone they hope to see on stage, Cynthia acknowledged their well wishes, but said the real motivation has always come from within.

Relying on yourself is the best foundation to build true character, she muses serenely.


 At the end of the day, I realised that I must be my own cheerleader, which gave me the strength for my endeavours
PHOTO: “At the end of the day, I realised that I must be my own cheerleader, which gave me the strength for my endeavours,” she added.
Picture posted by cynthiakoh27 on 07 July 2025
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTkCncGU6Ib2MQGwXgCrmJy5HPPek5HLZ0iOSFqMOUA921oErjB20IIFopv9AvWXKu-VRaCCbeDr6m_Tqxt8F0w4E54gmu5dfoqJb-iyfilu_saW2VOmhC3aOlfAi9Rsl8gxz6FrQ-w-XYzMJuSQlQIcM0ta6zOBJMw3KqGJWeExnw1pQeAM73qiRnQrs/s1908/515568947_18509311690063499_9118776180838629796_n_1.png
https://instagram.fsin14-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t51.2885-15/515568947_18509311690063499_9118776180838629796_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&efg=eyJ2ZW5jb2RlX3RhZyI6IkNBUk9VU0VMX0lURU0uaW1hZ2VfdXJsZ2VuLjE0NDB4MTkwOC5zZHIuZjgyNzg3LmRlZmF1bHRfaW1hZ2UifQ&_nc_ht=instagram.fsin14-2.fna.fbcdn.net&_nc_cat=111&_nc_oc=Q6cZ2QHkgVgrp_aRDfwcSOsK7MeurYoQ5YMJ-BZ6F4Q30ahpGuOynIpofKkpu9gi8dNJhG0&_nc_ohc=Zt0_ilXrRQ4Q7kNvwHXRvWL&_nc_gid=3CUczXt7dG_wYvGmxlkSeg&edm=AOmX9WgBAAAA&ccb=7-5&ig_cache_key=MzY3MTIxNjY4MDAyMzYxNjM2Nw%3D%3D.3-ccb7-5&oh=00_AfRT1UnMCW5NMfSlntSs9njU-kKcfi0r0RXdc6tMThjckQ&oe=6876E875&_nc_sid=bfaa47
https://www.instagram.com/cynthiakoh27/p/DLzkf-4yg_t/?img_index=2


Cynthia also says that she recognises the growth in herself compared to her younger years.

“Back when I won Best Actress, I was only in my 20s. For a very long after time after that, I questioned myself if I won just because I shaved my head. Tonight, I can say I don’t doubt myself so much,” she says.

For now, Cynthia says she is excitedly looking forward to having instant noodles for supper.


 For a very long after time after that, I questioned myself if I won just because I shaved my head.
PHOTO: "For a very long after time after that, I questioned myself if I won just because I shaved my head. Tonight, I can say I don’t doubt myself so much". Cynthia on her Best Actress win in 1999 
Picture posted by Bryan Wong, 8days on 07 July 2025 at 08:00 pm
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK8j1JQ_PYyyUtXI7yQR7HIlACyCwnpXCTlsgeYNjI7y98Dhtl4FQeqCCbNig_r3UHfiakKg0SiLMRE3BsB0t9izqeeLDxX92Niw1YUpKl_W_J2THeM-brOV-Ax1l8sSdEQPnRqjS2onBa7LqCNb2cHvxcw74jd3-CivafJAA7QvtrFWeal272gGzUzbw/s1778/screenshot_2025_07_07_132434_1_x0_11.png
https://dam.mediacorp.sg/image/upload/s--AwTTA-_---/c_lfill,dpr_2.0,g_face:auto,h_800/f_auto,q_auto/v1/mediacorp/8days/image/2025/07/07/screenshot_2025_07_07_132434.png?itok=fq7SlpW9
https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/local/cynthia-koh-best-supporting-actress-26-year-wait-between-acting-awards-sa2025-845166


Wait, that’s it?

“Okay, maybe my cup noodles and a nice glass of wine,” she laughs.

Cheers to that.


 Did you know that it has been 26 years since Mediacorp actress Cynthia Koh took home a Star Award for acting?
PHOTO: Did you know that it has been 26 years since Mediacorp actress Cynthia Koh took home a Star Award for acting?
Picture posted by cynthiakoh27 on 07 July 2025
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQa_61fF8kMJdi3E4u-vrCa_qMkw7mxbFfS_4gjQQu-BuAITCrXX_6quWoDNas32uXS3zcargQ1kiuNW93GR7D25-52ObkulE1Xcmu1dZ5c7WKjiBXuCn9afdSTsRvnQx2XXyP3mp2J56oVArF6QJIn2SlFiigC_1IdsPzVVJIiX9SsfYuNniXapJf-jk/s1920/516499637_18509311681063499_6169353632381018287_n_1.png
https://instagram.fsin14-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t51.2885-15/516499637_18509311681063499_6169353632381018287_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&efg=eyJ2ZW5jb2RlX3RhZyI6IkNBUk9VU0VMX0lURU0uaW1hZ2VfdXJsZ2VuLjE0NDB4MTkyMC5zZHIuZjgyNzg3LmRlZmF1bHRfaW1hZ2UifQ&_nc_ht=instagram.fsin14-2.fna.fbcdn.net&_nc_cat=111&_nc_oc=Q6cZ2QHkgVgrp_aRDfwcSOsK7MeurYoQ5YMJ-BZ6F4Q30ahpGuOynIpofKkpu9gi8dNJhG0&_nc_ohc=3ZmqVAQRaDwQ7kNvwH4XDQu&_nc_gid=3CUczXt7dG_wYvGmxlkSeg&edm=AOmX9WgBAAAA&ccb=7-5&ig_cache_key=MzY3MTIxNjY4MDAyMzU5ODk5NQ%3D%3D.3-ccb7-5&oh=00_AfSMk3sB16KWEfwXz0FSv6MhIH4N61cFwvsPL6rh-fuCrg&oe=68770386&_nc_sid=bfaa47
https://www.instagram.com/cynthiakoh27/p/DLzkf-4yg_t/?img_index=1
 

 Many times, I left the Star Awards feeling very disappointed when I went home empty-handed.
PHOTO: “Many times, I left the Star Awards feeling very disappointed when I went home empty-handed. I would then force myself to go to bed just to stop overthinking,” she shares, her voice quivering slightly.
Picture posted by cynthiakoh27 on 07 July 2025
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8nHgRMjsJoFVLQRQn6jFBkkjak52irnwS_VVd2Y1Llz8CGxccUbgstLt-JSmJHrcwvYbKOt95MmJ6jshcQJ6-xhngyoT2a6VIslb8HNwkUqckzl6mXpOc8TQMS8kvSoAGy4o_XZHWrCvNQ9_uRWpGzVOrIM9bHcz7MbEwfffFKFNeu79DuqnFKTVB-20/s1919/516299209_18509274160063499_1920932461882506945_n_1.png
https://instagram.fsin14-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t51.2885-15/516299209_18509274160063499_1920932461882506945_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&efg=eyJ2ZW5jb2RlX3RhZyI6IkNBUk9VU0VMX0lURU0uaW1hZ2VfdXJsZ2VuLjE0NDB4MTkxOS5zZHIuZjgyNzg3LmRlZmF1bHRfaW1hZ2UifQ&_nc_ht=instagram.fsin14-2.fna.fbcdn.net&_nc_cat=111&_nc_oc=Q6cZ2QFSPj9H_yTnyRb24fX_zc3QrbhoKGNdX9AYoMb5Xo7zwqEzT1FEDx-L-aS__AhijGk&_nc_ohc=qbBQRzolg50Q7kNvwGeT03B&_nc_gid=UH9MDktNxSz9ChiMiRHdDA&edm=APs17CUBAAAA&ccb=7-5&ig_cache_key=MzY3MTExNzE0NTIyMTgwMjkwMQ%3D%3D.3-ccb7-5&oh=00_AfQs2ytOQ4E1xIRICaAxemHfvWS7piexe4CGqpBraOF0sg&oe=6876DFF8&_nc_sid=10d13b
https://www.instagram.com/cynthiakoh27/p/DLybZvcyrdu/
 

 When we ask if it feels like a weight has been lifted off her shoulders after her win
PHOTO: When we ask if it feels like a weight has been lifted off her shoulders after her win, Cynthia goes on to describe career as a “very long and lonely marathon race”.
Picture posted by cynthiakoh27 on 07 July 2025
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFS-bAgf385r6Iq9HBl8LzVDctx2s7TgS05TWoNPPc7z9IxAHtH1_paBBYLQstjroNMorBSELNp1NxKsTJ_KZfFtV0qToiuagYlx_jpn1SguywelUB4PTz2BkkTI0VraxwG1aLTjLtkbu-0jUzyLM4WM2ZzVv53FpJSD-KOKUAEN_WG2y_epJaa-NZtSg/s1919/516666438_18509274169063499_4520776049776167069_n_1.png
https://instagram.fsin14-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t51.2885-15/516666438_18509274169063499_4520776049776167069_n.jpg?stp=dst-jpg_e35_tt6&efg=eyJ2ZW5jb2RlX3RhZyI6IkNBUk9VU0VMX0lURU0uaW1hZ2VfdXJsZ2VuLjE0NDB4MTkxOS5zZHIuZjgyNzg3LmRlZmF1bHRfaW1hZ2UifQ&_nc_ht=instagram.fsin14-2.fna.fbcdn.net&_nc_cat=111&_nc_oc=Q6cZ2QG9YZF7DwYPNFVltdYzLEpE6mKwlKFYdLLMiWQlfHuu9n7nhkveEw5iwjRSCKAmTTM&_nc_ohc=8HcjgaCTiwwQ7kNvwE9UC2X&_nc_gid=mTlLBnksLyugp1PnPZz2YQ&edm=AOmX9WgBAAAA&ccb=7-5&ig_cache_key=MzY3MTExNzE0NTIzMDA2Njk0Nw%3D%3D.3-ccb7-5&oh=00_AfREC0VMKhvA7olaA5Q3aTLswuFnaI9aAldCZUAXOvhcUg&oe=68771011&_nc_sid=bfaa47
https://www.instagram.com/cynthiakoh27/p/DLybZvcyrdu/?img_index=2
 

 Back when I won Best Actress, I was only in my 20s.
PHOTO: “Back when I won Best Actress, I was only in my 20s. For a very long after time after that, I questioned myself if I won just because I shaved my head. Tonight, I can say I don’t doubt myself so much,” she says.
Picture posted by Gavilano 💕
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/7a35393d14469b6f1a88ea0792ba2416.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE4hC4DP51f5Pjikra39jY-gjsR1gT3C3bFCOsV0QdEFtGA_Kjz2BoAA3Q3V1otkRAMNkSzgGGuKQApIJb6JAJ11zlnWJInadGYPVUBeayBNofcQtG31GBbB7ODqnblJI8ja0R_r6h_X7P7_JtrzMfSqCzjB3WzRo1BpqEjKAmQgaCppOmM2ncn6S6LNg/s2562/7a35393d14469b6f1a88ea0792ba2416_11.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/0e/4a/6e/0e4a6ea3cffaf1258f3f8e18655f2315.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/408701734952879735/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 

 For now, Cynthia says she is excitedly looking forward to having instant noodles for supper.
PHOTO: For now, Cynthia says she is excitedly looking forward to having instant noodles for supper.
Picture posted by snnyyder star .......forever
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/c69e2a9b36c5fbc25496af31349f7fcd.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFK12uxU5o-sIz-eZBPWGDXiEGD_jhMeXa3tMkPbma_AUy129glaVeJPUX5RmJnEXc5FBC09fk_wlVdYjQgycOjdMy0D6t2O3oa7Cztjnqd_IWyCS6_CN2F6KF8_VzhlPegNf6GwHpXcwtPPXeln44QkoUZx27FFE8zTRQdAL2-MlKcSvn2B3MX5P5xDQ/s2560/c69e2a9b36c5fbc25496af31349f7fcd_11.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/b8/45/67/b84567c2d8811f0d980cb23178f160b3.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/65161525854780812/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 

 At the end of the day, I realised that I must be my own cheerleader, which gave me the strength for my endeavours
PHOTO: “At the end of the day, I realised that I must be my own cheerleader, which gave me the strength for my endeavours,” she added.
Picture posted by 지그재그 로고 (Zigzag logo)
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/264c830720193531e2c82129c1a478fc.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SOrwWlHL3UJYwJfr_rxJ4b3wl7mz-A2o4aiw8EkIjpda-CdVajKStVOsJF2ZFDQ7oqBsiTk60YfkgZz_aPK3V_xsRXPXKoGzpoHuk2dIIZeL7vjzpTu-_RzUG7dtdlxzlBE9ijSgyZmVWYMicatoT-j83T3eJUto-Wi9u4TZwfZPN8AuIuoamspc7Dk/s1946/264c830720193531e2c82129c1a478fc_1.png
https://hi-diva.com/web/upload/NNEditor/20240628/mobile/253b2c16b543fa0a5aaa18522725b2b9_1719535111.jpg
https://zigzag.kr/catalog/products/143117204
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 

 When we pointed out that many of her colleagues, and of course, her fans, have often named her as someone they hope to see on stage
PHOTO: When we pointed out that many of her colleagues, and of course, her fans, have often named her as someone they hope to see on stage, Cynthia acknowledged their well wishes, but said the real motivation has always come from within.
Picture posted by Borresh beautiful ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/365a24f2ac2de1ffa9ad4462423dd90c.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizVxBeI6PyfUT6JAGYxitAwO5sntxlo_QytDIhm9Ql87a73PK37Qgi1IspQiT_2wMi1fOGdqSWje1SOK2JgKuolc04xWpGhx0sFrUigL1n92W2UrLcWlufCagm7-xxqsk-V4tptRw3Ppu7EZTSbfn7Lqok0v23g5CNARvMaf6MlGiMgjQMQtV2Lo2pEDY/s2702/365a24f2ac2de1ffa9ad4462423dd90c_1.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/1b/21/32/1b21321fb9d7566a247c72ec8c2d45cb.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/172614598213095722/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 

 In 1999, she won Best Actress for her iconic role as the spunky Hong Dou in historical drama Stepping Out.
PHOTO: In 1999, she won Best Actress for her iconic role as the spunky Hong Dou in historical drama Stepping Out. She famously shaved her head to play the character.
Picture posted by JS Slhoka
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/e8438b64b03b13ecd219138b29a09ef7.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI8O7Zylj9jO8T3y8f2FYMXNKl8d9IBMubI1C_DrrO0WSQ5KOLXpTn9V0K_EeO4WoyzcyeSuFUYAFOYF1vpa3DPZEBOAWIi5JPxU_PCEuEUbSHymYED6NYLwgshVlHqr1VA79zTFvs8srXr9-TLZSTfLUzxxK-deRU8s9SkqC2FG-dJkJGp3EvjJyJS2E/s3225/e8438b64b03b13ecd219138b29a09ef7_1.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/69/1e/ac/691eac2d2517fad18a8ede0e07273f57.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/54324739250649556/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 

 It has been a very long 26 years!
PHOTO: “It has been a very long 26 years!” she exclaims with a laugh when we brought it up.
Picture posted by Natali-Classic
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/36ff186b4c5bfeadc0c1652547570c23.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSssqQGR67irhosmA2ruKePMbgM8Wzdq9DyCUDBcQnyPnO1PZU_du2zQ74XivfXdFJCX8-nfgYXYPbJIihULb-kygFmDL-eq38QwBObJyNWzHUvWdwzWtNjdVgOmrWwasPYAnhyphenhyphenF03vo91wN7gwpOzGBtRTCM_s5CsoqEXOx_rjFY0kSrllbzweMZ5V6A/s2720/36ff186b4c5bfeadc0c1652547570c23_11.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/11/31/74/1131742b90eae233dd718fdfa6518242.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/504755070755149833/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 

 Many times, I left the Star Awards feeling very disappointed when I went home empty-handed.
PHOTO: “Many times, I left the Star Awards feeling very disappointed when I went home empty-handed. I would then force myself to go to bed just to stop overthinking,” she shares, her voice quivering slightly.
Picture posted by Natali-Classic
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/0cc02a0bfc24b4f43e93a88df43652dc.webp
 

 Relying on yourself is the best foundation to build true character, she muses serenely.
PHOTO: Relying on yourself is the best foundation to build true character, she muses serenely.
Picture posted by Natali-Classic
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/a8ba2a06c43f1d2d432a948b2181d46b.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEawgSmiNBLuoF2KdZaLskLqs_hKp8qjuMrsaLNChH2E6HQMAGPgI5ThzTTnp805ZP4TXHd_7o6FxlZJUO-BO1yhwfKT_8C1Z28TneE3G2NgMmM5GaGm8hioO8eV_enVOwNzeNyu0s3uDW6A5bObOTtQQaivD0BXihHPbnVs6BwLzSlBzgUwrG-ZKsmU/s2560/a8ba2a06c43f1d2d432a948b2181d46b_11.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/ac/88/43/ac8843f09d5103bfd21b3e9fe0a6fc74.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/340303315613824346/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 

 Cynthia also says that she recognises the growth in herself compared to her younger years.
PHOTO: Cynthia also says that she recognises the growth in herself compared to her younger years.
Picture posted in Pinterest
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/382f14ce0c21feb8e5abb77803100950.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvbg1m8noYujHKFn_ynUA_YbWIhiwN4-0wDkFyGK29N8iwDVmq5m5nvhORgRLXuWg_GcOHaxGg7dYh7D-pSmEJcCSvf_JNGbtvrJ5uEouAPYkVVhzIkn1KjoVLM4RBAZIthU1SWOMh-wInEz8vWR3tJKs028V2bIya2a-CohDGoLP-0v2InHLYBPGqdEg/s2131/382f14ce0c21feb8e5abb77803100950_1.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/2f/11/f8/2f11f83b658c84a4283a351426e507cd.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/301248662604607883/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 
 
 Back when I won Best Actress, I was only in my 20s.
PHOTO: “Back when I won Best Actress, I was only in my 20s. For a very long after time after that, I questioned myself if I won just because I shaved my head. Tonight, I can say I don’t doubt myself so much,” she says.
Picture posted in Pinterest
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/45905acfb6cce0759aa257e6b4d14885.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEily-2OEuqnANRBw0ZLeDNSrotzwbjq_rEOYIEIGXZpqv3DFCTiKgVY0CmagxoYXemTICq1-ZV7SjEjHjRFALhjSRt0VYZZRaDNhs1rapFzELlicqQajuu27ej0IYk3Igaf6XEcTH0PztKtGZq6WGOdLLMttQJ9mLssN3gZwRE_5eC9FUZKXYBsWUCQuak/s2300/45905acfb6cce0759aa257e6b4d14885_1.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/6d/a0/82/6da082c8d4f8e3215254bfd48262f6a8.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/914160424368408899/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 

 The 51-year-old tells 8days.sg she had to become her own cheerleader to find the strength to keep going.
PHOTO: The 51-year-old tells 8days.sg she had to become her own cheerleader to find the strength to keep going.
Picture posted by Sexy girl vt_771225691109792190 on 27 November 2024 at 04:41 am
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/7425d4f90dd3412f541c5ef4f763ba6f.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtDX8FImqcDaECad2mJ0CC-v_0aNEBBVMRHR2tLxbEXTRicZR65RVTIL0ue3L5tVO-5AFj5ANEApCGfivgo4MAK4Q1VPue5SV0JJmFtpgW2HK6KwjywiiW9LoeLMbqGlEd1mFqqLzxHEQKKRglXKksLK8SiIktFZQOiWVKFMLWzOuR0KjVujpbvmY8Q8s/s2688/7425d4f90dd3412f541c5ef4f763ba6f_1.png
https://image.tensorartassets.com/cdn-cgi/image/anim=true,plain=false,w=1536,f=jpeg,q=85/posts/images/771225691109792190/93361425-5fe4-4dc8-954a-a93eb4ddf7ea.png
https://tensor.art/images/800503224747666071?post_id=800503224743471769
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 

 It has been tiring, and at times, demoralising. Looking back, I really wonder where I kept finding the strength to keep going at it,
PHOTO: “It has been tiring, and at times, demoralising. Looking back, I really wonder where I kept finding the strength to keep going at it,” she says.
Picture posted by drimtime on 10 October 2023 at 12:40 pm
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/c5d0a1823433987744ad3577aa0be818.webp
 

 For now, Cynthia says she is excitedly looking forward to having instant noodles for supper.
PHOTO: For now, Cynthia says she is excitedly looking forward to having instant noodles for supper.
Picture posted by E_ fantasy on 14 October 2023 at 02:00 pm
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/146d392eb60289a8cdc9c9fb81ba11af.webp
 

 Many times, I left the Star Awards feeling very disappointed when I went home empty-handed. I would then force myself to go to bed just to stop overthinking
PHOTO: “Many times, I left the Star Awards feeling very disappointed when I went home empty-handed. I would then force myself to go to bed just to stop overthinking,” she shares, her voice quivering slightly.
Picture posted by imgur, Fresh❣️beauty✨
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/68c2af486eeb975e9338d0e42e9e729f.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjQO7lJEIS1CgS7zRmkZ45IR08lcFZ3-MnpkC70wCr8Sw257iCac-BwMQlxTY2ppBbRSfRd2FlidfO5RjO4T5WZi0lq08bDte9jqPZRuGjTvUOdEUJbLB2b4mDXpWRMECQLZqhPYkdgF4Qir_ctjAt3uCQLP1hs1RW77x5-zw5hgeHENS1jDPL6QEsFoU/s2274/68c2af486eeb975e9338d0e42e9e729f_1.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/3f/cb/cc/3fcbcc349a9edfb9b356b425c05a316f.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/536913586827318136/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 

 When we pointed out that many of her colleagues, and of course, her fans, have often named her as someone they hope to see on stage
PHOTO: When we pointed out that many of her colleagues, and of course, her fans, have often named her as someone they hope to see on stage, Cynthia acknowledged their well wishes, but said the real motivation has always come from within.
Picture posted by Nirvana, Fresh❣️beauty✨
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/d24c26c57bca83571dcfaaba9845732b.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBIoNLgV0O5XTI6omZ3G8NkDeaTUksK7-3dzkzdJYoKdT8TiQV5gPU_xM7LH-HXL9lSI_1cz18x1iqer4qO00CeYRe0jmDuUgGYjsY3ZVfC_BpV20d1PlzzLPrR8-l7HPOxim48FD83c8G-VUOWUkgwt8l4jPYsA1tskL-itgO_pIaMiXlGVNSFeYPjU/s3960/d24c26c57bca83571dcfaaba9845732b_1.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/79/a4/17/79a417ff27a8b504beb84ec79389b2c6.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/798614946458460387/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae
 
 
 When we ask if it feels like a weight has been lifted off her shoulders after her win, Cynthia goes on to describe career
PHOTO: When we ask if it feels like a weight has been lifted off her shoulders after her win, Cynthia goes on to describe career as a “very long and lonely marathon race”.
Picture posted by Ping AI
Picture upscaled by AI Image Upscaler at https://pixnova.ai/image-upscaler/
Faceswap by Face Swap AI generator at https://aifaceswap.io/
https://art-global.yimeta.ai/face-swap/19e313219cc532f7e32760d7f6eb6321.webp
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwikHXvQlmgoa93iHvPzdp1t3h2Cm6E2-dpAnSN4S-zai2l7JzbgagQWX9Jru1uGBkj8hFB-JqYNRFX-ZYgDn2dq-yoChlOPUQr_edU4uznlciKPI1pMhNNpYu2MfxtQxjWYKhd6b9n2jMppUUDE7gtIgjdRelQXzaVEeKbs9IWj_ljMeohL15yUDG7h0/s2208/19e313219cc532f7e32760d7f6eb6321_1.png
https://i.pinimg.com/1200x/84/21/a5/8421a5ab799cd17488bc8f165bb2eff1.jpg
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/448108231693833075/
Original Cynthia Koh picture from:
Picture posted by My Reading Room
https://myreadingroom.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/img/article/media/media-RZlt1GVkaI5pP1w3.png
https://myreadingroom.online/en/live/life-style/simply-her/EvE6bM7ae

By Bryan Wong, 8days, 07 July 2025 at 08:00 pm
No part of this story can be reproduced without permission from 8days.sg.


More on Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn)

Cynthia Koh was later invited to sign a contract with then Singapore Broadcasting Corporation, but Yao was not offered one.
Yao Wenlong (姚彣隆 Yáo wén lóng) shares old photo with actress Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn), posted on Saturday, 28 September 2024
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2024/09/yao-wenlong-yao-wen-long-shares-old.html


Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) attempts long scolding scene entirely in Korean, posted on Sunday, 07 May 2023
Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) attempts long scolding scene entirely in Korean, posted on Sunday, 07 May 2023
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2023/05/cynthia-koh-xu-mei-zhen-attempts-long.html


Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) fulfils promise to 'not wear anything' if she won at Star Awards... or does she? (Warning: Nudity!), posted on Saturday, 07 May 2022
Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) fulfils promise to 'not wear anything' if she won at Star Awards... or does she? (Warning: Nudity!), posted on Saturday, 07 May 2022
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2022/05/cynthia-koh-xu-mei-zhen-fulfils-promise.html


Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) explains why she didn't 'milk her curves' at Star Awards 2022, posted on Friday, 29 April 2022
Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) explains why she didn't 'milk her curves' at Star Awards 2022, posted on Friday, 29 April 2022
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2022/04/cynthia-koh-xu-mei-zhen-explains-why.html


'I'd rather die pretty': Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) suffered wardrobe malfunction with sexy blue dress, spent 2 hours leaning against wall, posted on Wednesday, 20 April 2022
'I'd rather die pretty': Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) suffered wardrobe malfunction with sexy blue dress, spent 2 hours leaning against wall, posted on Wednesday, 20 April 2022
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2022/04/id-rather-die-pretty-cynthia-koh-xu-mei.html


Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) on 'the verge of tears' after car vandalised, posted on Sunday, 10 April 2022
Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) on 'the verge of tears' after car vandalised, posted on Sunday, 10 April 2022
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2022/04/cynthia-koh-xu-mei-zhen-on-verge-of.html


Actress Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) asks for more patience with healthcare workers, posted on Sunday, 20 February 2022
Actress Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn) asks for more patience with healthcare workers, posted on Sunday, 20 February 2022
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2022/02/actress-cynthia-koh-xu-mei-zhen-asks.html


Actress Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn), hits back at netizens who criticise her sexy outfit (Warning: Nudity!), posted on Wednesday, 08 December 2021
Actress Cynthia Koh (许美珍 Xǔ měi zhēn), hits back at netizens who criticise her sexy outfit (Warning: Nudity!), posted on Wednesday, 08 December 2021
https://veryfatoldman.blogspot.com/2021/12/actress-cynthia-koh-xu-mei-zhen-hits.html





Reference
[1] Bryan Wong, 8days, Best Supporting Actress Cynthia Koh Says Her 26-Yr Wait Between Acting Awards Was Like A “Very Long and Lonely Marathon”, posted on 07 July 2025 at 08:00 pm, https://www.8days.sg/entertainment/local/cynthia-koh-best-supporting-actress-26-year-wait-between-acting-awards-sa2025-845166


Links












Posted by at
Labels: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,