Aileen Tan, 57, bagged her second Best Supporting Actress trophy at last night’s Star Awards, 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.sg backstage after her win, Aileen is all smiles as she says: “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 continues.
When we ask Aileen if thinks playing a villain made her stand out, she lets out a boisterous burst of laughter as she says: “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” playing the role of a bad guy takes us by surprise, though.
“It’s very bad for us psychologically and it might affect the way you think,” she says. “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.” Gulp.