Fans of Qi Yuwu can finally stop holding their breath in anticipation for his return to the small screen here.
After nearly a two-year hiatus from the local googlebox to work on film projects, the Chinese heartthrob is back with a new comedy series, Precious Babes. He previously made a guest appearance in this year's Ch 8 Chinese New Year telemovie series..
Almost a decade has passed since his popped his comedy cherry with the 2001 Chinese sitcom series My Genie with Fiona Xie during his salad days. Now with Precious Babes, this eager beaver, known mostly for his dramatic roles, excitedly confessed that he hopes to "try out as many different drama genres" and "prove that I am not a typecast for a particular genre."
He adds almost ruefully, "Comedians can act in drama serials, but not every drama actor can be a comedian."
With his last major role as a pair of fated but separated lovers with Jeanette Aw in the 2008 blockbuster drama Little Nyona that had more heartbreak than hahas, it seems like the 33-year-old now wants to make up for all the heartaches he brought to viewers.
"I am an actor but I am also the audience. I hope to make viewers laugh and bring them more joy over sorrows," he said.
Well, he certainly does already look half the part with his new frizzy mop. He permed his own hair for the series even though he jokingly tells you it was caused by lighting strikes.
Shadowing his good looks with a poodle perm is barely the toughest hurdle he's had to face, considering his admission that "acting in a comedy series is tiring and the hardest (thing)."
"It is really difficult to act in a comedy series. You can't go overboard and you can't be over exaggerated, but it still needs to have an effect. In terms of skills, there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration."
Filming for Precious Babes is halfway complete, and also stars Ann Kok, Eelyn Kok, Cynthia Koh, Alan Tern, and Zheng Geping.
Asked if he thinks he has a funny bone in him, the Guangzhou-native mused, "Whether or not I feel that it is [funny] - is pointless. Some people might find it hilarious, some won't. We'll just have to wait and see how the audiences respond."
The cheeky one was quick to add, "However, I feel that I do have it (a flair for comedy) in me!"
Precious Babes debuts this June.
