Back in the Public Eye: How Singapore Actors Are Returning Through New Platforms

The concept of “returning to the limelight” in Singapore’s entertainment industry has evolved beyond traditional television and film. Today, actors are reconnecting with audiences through a mix of long-form dramas, vertical digital series, musical performances, live events, and increasingly, live-streaming platforms.

The recent activities of Chen Hui Hui, Tracer Wong, Wu Kaishen, Hong Zhao Rong, and Tang Miaoling illustrate how diverse and intentional these returns have become.

Chen Hui Hui: Re-establishing Presence in Emerald Hill

Chen Hui Hui’s return via Mediacorp’s Emerald Hill represents a strong re-entry into mainstream television. Known for her emotionally restrained and realistic performances, Chen brings maturity and credibility to the series. Her comeback reinforces the value of experienced actors in narratives that reflect everyday Singaporean life.

Credit: Asiaone

Rather than reclaiming past visibility, Chen’s return feels like a natural continuation of her craft.

In 2002, on her sixth nomination for the Best Supporting Actress at the Star Awards, Chen won the Best Supporting Actress award.

In 2003, Chen was offered to renew her contract with Mediacorp but with a pay cut. Rejecting the new contract terms, Chen left Mediacorp

Tracer Wong: Expanding Into Performance and Music

Tracer Wong’s return has been shaped by versatility. Alongside her involvement in vertical series, she participated in the 2023 musical event Who Says It First, reconnecting with live performance and collaborative storytelling.

Her reappearance highlights an actress exploring different creative forms, signalling a return driven by artistic curiosity rather than conventional career paths.

Wu Kaishen: Acting With Perspective, Not Pressure

Wu Kaishen’s return to acting stands out for its honesty and grounded perspective. After leaving Mediacorp in 1999 and spending years taking on smaller roles, he recently made a notable return in the fantasy series Perfectly Imperfect, playing a loyal assistant to the King of the Underworld.

What makes Wu’s comeback distinctive is his openness about balance. He has publicly shared that he has no intention of quitting his day job running an eyewear business, viewing acting as a creative outlet rather than a sole livelihood. He has even joked about his acting “not being that great”—a self-awareness that underscores his humility and sincerity.

At 57, Wu’s return is not driven by fame, but by fulfilment. His journey reflects a growing acceptance that acting can coexist with other commitments, and that artistic growth does not always require total sacrifice.

Hong Zhao Rong: Building Connection Through Live Streaming and vertical videos

Hong Zhao Rong’s recent involvement in live-streaming events marks a shift towards direct audience engagement. Live streaming requires spontaneity, authenticity, and sustained presence—qualities that highlight her calm authority and reliability.

By embracing this format, Hong expands her reach beyond scripted roles, demonstrating adaptability in an increasingly interactive media landscape.

Tang Miaoling: Renewed Visibility Through Live Events and Streams

Tang Miaoling has also been actively involved in live-streaming events, alongside appearances in live and media shows. This form of engagement allows her to connect with audiences in real time, reinforcing familiarity and warmth built over years in the industry.

Her return underscores how live interaction has become a powerful tool for performers to maintain relevance and visibility today.

A Broader Definition of the Comeback

Together, these five actors illustrate how the notion of a comeback has expanded. From Emerald Hill to 933’s vertical series Love Revenge, from musical performances to live-streaming platforms, returning to the limelight now means meeting audiences where they are.

At Flux Media, we see this shift as a healthy evolution—one that values experience, adaptability, and genuine connection over rigid career trajectories. In today’s industry, returning is no longer about going back. It is about moving forward, differently.