On the evening of 17/9, actress Kieu Oanh attended the premiere of director Tran Trong Dan's film "Ut Lan 2" in TP HCM. Artist Hoang Nhat accompanied his wife on the red carpet, occasionally smiling as she interacted with the audience and media. Kieu Oanh stated, "For many years, he has quietly been by my side, taking care of everything from my medication to my sleep."

Actress Kieu Oanh with her husband, artist Hoang Nhat, at the new film's premiere. Photo: *Courtesy of character*

Kieu Oanh's husband fully supported her return to the screen. While she filmed in U Minh Thuong (An Giang), Hoang Nhat encouraged his wife to complete her role, assuring her he would manage affairs at home. As colleagues, they understand each other's challenges due to unpredictable acting schedules, especially night shoots. They readily share responsibilities, from childcare to household chores, when one is busy.

The actress cherishes the daily peace with her husband and two children. After 13 years, they maintain their marriage's "flame" with laughter. At home, the couple enjoys playful banter, fostering a positive and relaxed family atmosphere. "We have never argued or quarreled, likely because we always aim to bring joy to each other," she said.

Beyond performing, the couple dedicates most of their time to their two children, Whitney and Callie. They choose to be companions, enabling their children to pursue their passions. Whitney Yen Khang, Kieu Oanh's 18-year-old daughter, is studying technology abroad. Her scholarship partially eases the couple's financial burden. They do not dictate their children's career paths, only advising them to choose a profession they love and that suits their abilities.

The artists agree that regardless of their chosen field, their children need a complete education. Kieu Oanh works diligently with her husband to build a stable financial foundation for their family. They save, allocating a portion of their assets for Whitney and Callie. "We don't have extensive dining or spending needs, so we dedicate all our finances to investing in our children's education," she said.

Kieu Oanh and her husband began their relationship in the early 2010s, after she had experienced a previous marital breakdown. They first met on a film set. Kieu Oanh's initial impression of Hoang Nhat was his calm, serious demeanor, contrasting with her talkative, humorous personality. Over time, he grew fond of Kieu Oanh's sociable nature and her care for others. Both *cai luong* artists (traditional Vietnamese opera), they shared many professional commonalities. In 2013, they decided to live together.

Kieu Oanh and Hoang Nhat are considered a "joint venture" couple on the *cai luong* stage, often touring together. Photo: *Courtesy of character*

After three decades in the profession, Kieu Oanh seeks roles that offer new dimensions. In "Ut Lan 2," she plays Tu Banh, a wealthy woman from the Mekong Delta with a mysterious background. Compared to her recent film roles, this character involves complex psychological scenes as Mrs. Tu gradually reveals her identity.

Several months before filming, she planned physical training for her first action scenes. During filming in the U Minh Thuong forest, the actress performed most struggle scenes herself, enduring injuries and scratches. She only relied on a stunt double for dangerous scenes requiring suspension when exhausted. "I always want to push my limits, so I accept being bandaged and continuing to act. After more than 30 years in this profession, for me, acting, doing makeup, and wearing character costumes is a joy," she said.

Actress Kieu Oanh, 52, from An Giang, studied *cai luong* at Stage Art School 2 (now Ho Chi Minh City University of Theater and Cinema). After graduation, she won a gold medal at the 1995 National Theater Festival, earning the title of Talented Young Actress.

After a period dedicated to traditional singing, she transitioned to stage plays, making her mark with numerous comedy sketches alongside Tan Beo and Bao Chung. The actress also appeared in television series: "Dat Phuong Nam," "Nhung Neo Duong Phu Sa," "Gia Tu Di Vang," and "Ong Than Nuoc." Many of her roles, even as supporting characters, are remembered by generations, such as Nam Xuan – the talented, ill-fated opera singer in the television series "Dat Phuong Nam."

Tam Ky