The actress recently returned to the screen with a small role as a street vendor in a musical film produced by singer Ngoc Khue. Minh Vuong stated that the filming time was short and did not require much physical exertion, and she participated primarily to support a close junior colleague.

For five years, the artist has not acted in television dramas, focusing instead on teaching at the Hanoi College of Art and several acting training centers. Many former students still visit her occasionally for advice, receiving her dedicated guidance.

The artist has lived with diabetes for over 20 years, necessitating a disciplined routine of eating and resting on time. Each day, she wakes early, exercises gently, and self-injects insulin four times a day to control her blood sugar. In her free time, she tends to a small garden on her rooftop, cooks simple traditional dishes, enjoys coffee with colleagues, or stays home to watch movies.

Last year, she suffered a leg fracture, requiring 14 months of treatment. The artist has only been able to walk gently for about two months. She currently lives with her same-age cousin. Both are single, relying on and caring for each other. In her youth, she did not marry due to poor health and her deep passion for her profession. Without children, she always longed for the sound of children's laughter. The artist is proud that after many years of performing plays for children, she is still called "Chi Minh Vuong" (Aunt Minh Vuong) even in her late 60s. Having portrayed many comedic roles on stage and screen, she feels her spirit remains youthful and cheerful.

The artist at the premiere of singer Ngoc Khue's musical film, afternoon 17/4/2025 in Hanoi. Photo: Tinh Le

After "Tro Ve Giua Yeu Thuong" in 2021, she stopped acting in television dramas. During filming days, the logistics team had to bring her a chair to rest after each scene. While the film was still airing, the passing of her colleague and classmate, artist Hoang Dung, also left her feeling empty.

"He was my classmate at the Hanoi College of Art. We knew about his illness when he was hospitalized, and we knew it was inevitable, but we were still shocked and disheartened. After he passed, I thought a lot and felt I should take a break to focus on my health," she said.

Last year, she received three film offers but had to decline due to health constraints. When production teams invited her, she eagerly inquired about the character, script, and filming schedule, forgetting her mobility issues. After her cousin reminded her, she recalled her situation and had to call back to decline.

While shopping or at the hospital, the artist is often recognized by audiences, who greet her warmly. Many express how much they miss her witty performances and hope she will return to acting soon. "I am very grateful that the audience still remembers and loves me. Hearing those words brings a sense of wistfulness. However, the current generation of young actors is very strong. They can handle the work well. I am older now, so I do not need to appear too much," the artist said.

However, she remains open to returning to the screen if there is a suitable role that is appealing but not physically demanding. Having embodied many characters, from diligent and gentle to mischievous, Minh Vuong still hopes to challenge herself with a more unique role, such as a crime boss. For now, her greatest joy is stepping back, passing on her craft, and watching the younger generation.

Artist Minh Vuong, whose real name is Minh Phuong, was born in 1958 in Luong Yen, Hanoi. From a young age, she dreamed of becoming an actress. In 1973, Minh Vuong passed the entrance exam for the Hanoi Cheo Troupe, but her family did not allow her to attend. In 1974, she was admitted to the Drama Department of the Hanoi College of Art. After graduating, she joined the Hanoi Drama Theater.

In 1980, the artist gained attention for her role as an 80-year-old rural woman in the play "Ha Mi Cua Toi", directed by People's Artist Doan Hoang Giang. With her roles as a matchmaker in "Gia Ken" and Kieu Nhung in "Vo Chong Rom", she won two gold medals at the National Drama Festival in 1991. Additionally, Minh Vuong is renowned for her appearances in the programs "Gap Nhau Cuoi Tuan" and "Gap Nhau Cuoi Nam".

Ha Thu