Aileen Tan, 57, bagged her second Best Supporting Actress trophy at the Star Awards 2024, thanks to her stellar performance as the big bad in SHERO. Her last win was in 2017, for her role in Hero.
However, the actress, who was left out of the Top 10 Most Popular nominees list this year, was not holding out hopes of bringing home a trophy this year.
Speaking to 8days backstage after her win, Aileen was all smiles as she said: “Actually, I’m very happy just to get an award. The competition this year is very fierce. I’ve been in the industry for 30 years, and I respect the rules of the game.”
“When we act, it isn’t for the awards. When I joined the industry (in 1988), Star Awards wasn’t even a thing. I feel like as long as you do your part, and act well in every role you’re given, you will still get the acknowledgement you deserve,” she continued.
When we asked Aileen if she thinks playing a villain made her stand out, she let out a boisterous burst of laughter as she said: “No leh, I think I stand out in any role I play. This is the eighth time I’ve been nominated for Best Supporting Actress! It’s the only time I’ve been nominated in a villain role, though.”
Her candid rationale of why it’s not “nice” to play the role of a bad guy took us by surprise, though.
“It’s very bad for us psychologically and it might affect the way you think,” she said. “When you’re so into playing a character, and if you’re placing all your mind and energy into it… It’s very difficult. After you’re done playing the role, you have to readjust (your mental space), if not you’ll lose your mind and go around killing people! It’s really not good. But of course, if you accept the role, you have to play it to the best of your ability.”
Aileen was so pessimistic about winning that she “didn’t even prepare a thank you speech” for the night, and her manager was “really worried she wouldn’t show up”.
She then revealed that she actually wasn’t feeling well that day, and had symptoms of vertigo.
Her husband, director Gerald Lee, was equally, if not more, blasé.
“He didn’t think I was going to win this year so he’s not watching (Star Awards). Maybe he doesn’t even know I’ve won! Today, he said, ‘Aiyah, you’re just there to make up the numbers.’
“I’ve been nominated so many times, and for all three awards on some occasions. Even then, I’ve never won. This year, I was only nominated for one award – all the more he thinks I’m just here for fun! He told me ‘I won’t watch’, and I said ‘I know, it’s okay’,” chuckled Aileen.
When asked what her plans were post-win, she admitted that celebrations would have to wait.
“I took some medication so I think I will go home and have a good sleep first. I can’t celebrate too much though. I’m wearing a qipao in Emerald Hill and it requires me to remain in good shape. I’ll be playing a villain again!” she shared with a smile.
Will that get her lucky nomination number nine?
This story was originally published in 8days.