Twenty-four years ago, Bich Ngoc made her mark by portraying Thuy, a poor banana blossom seller who falls in love with Trong, played by Meritorious Artist Vo Hoai Nam, in the film "Vua Bai Rac." After this work, she participated in a few projects before moving to the UK to settle down and start a family. During her return to Vietnam to celebrate Binh Ngo Tet, the former actress discussed her life and new year plans.

"Why did you decide to celebrate Tet in your homeland this year after many years of living in the UK?"

"Every year, I visit my family one or two times, but usually during my children's summer, winter, or Easter breaks in the UK. This year, my two children are old enough to take care of themselves, so I decided to come home to my family. I wanted to fully immerse myself in the traditional Tet atmosphere, something that, no matter how hard I tried, was difficult to experience completely abroad."

"What moved me most is how everyone prepares for the new year, retaining all the warmth and closeness. During this time, my mother and I cleaned the house, visited flower markets, and explored the peach and kumquat gardens in Tu Lien, Tay Ho, Hanoi. Afterward, we bought decorations in Hang Ma and Hang Luoc streets. This year is also the first time I have made banh chung myself. These activities, which seem familiar, became special for someone who has been away from home for many years."

"I will return to the UK on the third day of Tet. Therefore, I prioritize spending all my time with family, visiting relatives, and going to temples for new year blessings. Additionally, I enjoy strolling through the streets to feel the spring atmosphere in the most cherished way. For the new year, I wish my family continued health and peace, and for myself, to be full of energy."

Nguyen Bich Ngoc at 44 years old. She graduated from the Acting Department, Hanoi University of Theater and Cinema. After "Vua Bai Rac," she appeared in films such as "Ben Them The Ky", "Dieu Khong Nhan Thay", and "Song Ngam". Photo: Provided by character

"After many years away from home, what do you miss most about traditional Tet in your homeland?"

"It is the atmosphere of the entire family gathering. In the UK, this day is usually quite quiet. My family and I, along with some close friends, try to maintain the traditions of making banh chung, gio xao (Vietnamese pork head cheese), bamboo shoot soup, xoi gac (red sticky rice), and boiled chicken, while also buying peach blossoms, apricot blossoms, and kumquat trees. We still maintain the custom of giving lucky money to the children."

"How do you plan to reunite with your former colleagues?"

"I have met a few people, and it was very moving because each conversation brought back beautiful memories of a passionate youth. Whenever I return to Vietnam, I go to watch plays directed or performed by my friends. If I have the opportunity to meet my co-stars from 'Vua Bai Rac,' a milestone in my acting career, it would certainly be a great joy. Currently, we all have our own lives but always hold affection and respect for each other. I keep in touch with them and follow everyone's news via social media."

"Although I am no longer directly involved in art, I follow Vietnamese films through online platforms and shared updates from friends in the industry. What impresses me most is the diversity of themes and the increasingly modern and realistic storytelling. Vietnamese cinema has produced films that gross hundreds of billions of Vietnamese dong, showing that audiences are increasingly trusting and supporting domestic films."

"What unforgettable memories do you have from filming 'Vua Bai Rac'?"

"At that time, filmmaking conditions were challenging. There were days of shooting from early morning until late at night, but everyone was dedicated to their roles and their love for the profession. The crew members were close-knit, ready to support each other in every scene. It was this genuine affection that helped me gain friends and fostered the motivation to pursue the profession during my youth."

"Additionally, the audience's affection also created beautiful memories. Many times, I received handwritten letters from young people in the military or viewers who loved the film on the 'Van Nghe Chu Nhat' program back then. Some even came to my house to give me flowers and gifts for my birthday. These are stories I will always remember."

Nguyen Bich Ngoc in a scene from the film "Vua Bai Rac." The film, written and directed by Do Minh Tuan, was released in 2002 and explores the lives and fates of the poor in society. Video: YouTube Phim hay dien anh moi nhat

"What difficulties did you face when you decided to leave your acting career and move to a new country?"

"Moving to the UK was a major turning point for me, changing not only my living environment but also my direction in life. I am an only child, so leaving my family was not easy. Initially, I worried a lot and felt a void after suddenly stopping the work I loved. I did not tell my colleagues that I was going abroad because I only intended to stay for a few months and then return, but the decision to stay changed my life."

"Sometimes, looking back at old photos or coincidentally watching films by my peers, I felt a pang of sadness and missed my profession deeply. However, over time, I learned to view things more lightly. I believe each stage in life has its own meaning. Acting gave me so much, from experiences and lessons to the audience's affection, which I still cherish today. Although I am no longer active in the arts as before, I maintain my love for the profession in my own way."

"What is your current pace of life like in the UK?"

"Previously, when I first started living in a foreign country, everything required time to adapt: from language, culture, and environment to work. However, I believe these challenges are normal for someone in a new place. The important thing is that I was willing to learn and not afraid to start anew."

"My life is now stable. I live in Manchester and have owned a beauty salon since 2004. Besides work, I dedicate much time to caring for my family. Every day, I maintain the habit of waking up early, preparing breakfast for the whole family, and then going to work. I enjoy reading and walking to maintain balance in my life."

"To maintain my current physique, the most important thing for me is to keep a comfortable, positive mindset. Additionally, I pay attention to a balanced diet combined with gentle exercise."

"With a son and daughter now entering adulthood, how do you support your children?"

"I started my family in the UK; this year, my daughter turned 21 and my son turned 18. I always try to be a companion to my two children. I listen, share, and help them understand the value of life, to be responsible, loving, and to respect themselves and others. Fortunately, both children are very understanding. I believe that this mutual understanding will help them confidently step into life in their own way."

Phuong Linh