The relationship between Truong Ba Chi and Ta Dinh Phong recently resurfaced in the public eye when director Vuong Tinh discussed their personal lives on his YouTube channel in mid-August.

Vuong Tinh said that while working with Ba Chi in 2011, he noticed cracks in the couple's marriage. Ba Chi occasionally complained about disagreements concerning household chores and childcare. According to Vuong Tinh, their personalities differed significantly: Ba Chi was outspoken while Dinh Phong was more reserved.

Truong Ba Chi and Ta Dinh Phong when they were still married. Photo: Harpers Bazaar

Truong Ba Chi and Ta Dinh Phong when they were still married. Photo: Harpers Bazaar

Despite their divorce, they maintained a respectful public image of each other. Vuong Tinh revealed that Dinh Phong provides substantial financial support for his sons and stays in contact, regularly visiting Lucas (18) and Quintus (15). Ba Chi, in turn, maintains a positive image of Dinh Phong as a father to their children.

"They are no longer husband and wife, but undeniably, as parents, they are a harmonious duo," Vuong Tinh commented. He is a renowned Hong Kong director whose video series on the professional and personal lives of Chinese actors has garnered hundreds of thousands of views in the past year.

Lucas (right) and his younger brother Quintus attending Ta Dinh Phong's live show in Hong Kong last April. Photo: St Headline

Lucas (right) and his younger brother Quintus attending Ta Dinh Phong's live show in Hong Kong last April. Photo: St Headline

Truong Ba Chi and Ta Dinh Phong married in 2006 and publicly divorced in 2011, with their two sons staying with their mother. In 2014, Dinh Phong rekindled his relationship with his former girlfriend Vuong Phi. Ba Chi gave birth to her third son in 2018 but has not disclosed the father's identity.

In a video posted on her personal page last April, the 45-year-old actress stated she is currently single, focused on her children and career, and not considering romance. She interacts with her sons like friends. For instance, during an argument with Lucas, she calmly told him, "Don't force me to argue. Let me calm down."

Ba Chi with young Lucas and Quintus. Video: Weibo

In an interview with Vogue, when asked how she shields her children from the negative impacts of their parents' separation, Ba Chi explained that she doesn't actively discuss it. However, if her sons ask about their father, she doesn't hide her own thoughts, trusting them to form their own judgments.

Determined to maintain her career, Truong Ba Chi strives to balance her work and family responsibilities. She needs to support herself, her parents, and assist her siblings, so she seizes every opportunity to increase her income.

There was a period when she frequently traveled to cities in China for television shows, flying back to her children in the evenings after filming. "Although they were usually asleep when I got home and didn't see me, at least I could be there. That was the best feeling," she shared.

Truong Ba Chi has faced hardships and felt overwhelmed, especially when ill. During those times, her sons' understanding and good behavior brought her comfort and happiness. Whenever facing difficulties, she reminds herself, "It is what it is. It's not a big deal."

Lucas, Quintus and their grandmother at Ta Dinh Phong's live show last April. Video: Sina

Having three sons was always part of Truong Ba Chi's plan. At home, her boys rarely cry or argue. She attributes this partly to her approach of not resorting to tears to solve problems. "Now that they are older, I'm realizing they absorbed even the smallest things I did when they were younger," Ba Chi observed.

According to On, Lucas and Quintus are academically successful, independent, and supportive of each other. Last May, a video of the brothers dining with their father and grandmother gained attention on social media. When Lucas noticed Quintus looking at his phone during the meal, he gave him a stern look, prompting Quintus to put his phone away. Many viewers praised Truong Ba Chi's parenting.

Truong Ba Chi in her forties. She is known for films like "King of Comedy", "The Lion Roars", "Cat and Mouse", "Fly Me to Polaris", and "The Promise". Photo: Sina

Truong Ba Chi in her forties. She is known for films like "King of Comedy", "The Lion Roars", "Cat and Mouse", "Fly Me to Polaris", and "The Promise". Photo: Sina

Truong Ba Chi's efforts are recognized by the Ta family. According to Nownews, Ta Hien, Ta Dinh Phong's father, sees his grandsons once or twice a month, while Dinh Phong visits them about twice a month. He praised Truong Ba Chi as a kind and thoughtful person. Ta Dinh Phong also acknowledged his ex-wife's excellent parenting, expressing his peace of mind knowing his sons are in her care.

Truong Ba Chi's greatest satisfaction comes from caring for her family. Feeling financially secure, she now enjoys more freedom in choosing her work.

In recent years, she has been busy with television appearances, fashion engagements, and livestream sales. In 2022, she generated over 100 million CNY (over 13.9 million USD) in sales through livestreaming, becoming one of the most successful Chinese actresses in this field.

The actress describes herself as optimistic. As a child, her mother often told her, "You are born alone. You need to know how to make yourself happy without depending on others." Now, even when faced with harsh criticism, she views it as merely lyrics to a song. Today, she feels like a free bird, soaring through life.

Nhu Anh (via Vogue, On)