Chen Hao's charming eyes make her stand out among China's young actresses. They helped her steal many men's hearts when she starred as Miss Charming in the TV series Pink Ladies. And Chen has since been seen as a living "love encyclopeadia" who knows everything about how to deal with relationships.
However, the first thing she makes clear in the interview with 21st Century is that she likes an uncomplicated life and doesn't have a "Love Encyclopaedia".
But, she said, she'd like to conquer fans with her first album Chen Hao, released in October.
"It shows a real me and my beautiful voice," said Chen with a shy smile. "I've put all my heart into my singing. For four months, I didn't take any TV or film parts. I enjoy the simplicity of the recording studio. All we care about there is producing good music."
Her effort has paid off. The album is flying off shelves in CD stores nationwide. Chen was nominated "Most Popular Newcomer" by Channel V's 12th "Chinese Music Awards" last weekend.
21st Century reporter Xu Weiwei talked with Chen about her life as an actress and singer:
21st: What's the difference between singing and acting in films?
Chen: Acting various roles is reliving different lives, while singing makes my own voice heard. My music reveals a different side of myself from what you see on screen. That's why I named the album Chen Hao. You can discover the real me through the songs and feel my warmth and sincerity. But I enjoy both. I will devote equal time to both careers.
21st: Why sing?
Chen: I love singing. I'm the type who follows interests and never pushes myself into things I dislike. Singing's been my hobby since I was young. Now I have the chance to do it full-time.
21st: Do you like being called "Miss Charming"?
Chen: I'm very simple, not as sophisticated as she is, juggling her relationships with men. There's no "Love Encyclopaedia" in my life. My love follows no rules, but true feelings.
But I love the title. It's not limited to one role now. It can refer to any generally appealing characters, like Andy Lau, Bae Young-jun and David Beckham.
21st: Apart from work, what do you like most?
Chen: Travelling. I especially like getting close to nature, it's so refreshing and tranquil.
Chen Hao's factfile
Birthdate: December 9
Height: 167 cm
Weight: 48kg
Favorite singer: Sandy Lam
Favorite animal: dog
Dream travel destination: Egypt
(21st Century December 8, 2005)
