Sheren Tang regrets giving 'Empresses in the Palace' and 'Story of Yanxi Palace’ roles a miss

Hindsight is always 20/20, and it seems like Hong Kong actress Sheren Tang is the best example of that.

The 52-year-old got her big break in the 2004 TVB drama, War and Beauty, playing Imperial Consort Yu. Her performance as the manipulative and conniving consort, who only wanted to ensure her survival in the imperial harem was lauded by critics, and propelled her to fame.

In a recent interview, Sheren shared that she had been approached by the director of Empresses in the Palace, who wanted her to take on the role of Ula-Nara Yixiu. However, as Sheren was filming for New My Fair Princess at that time, she was unable to take on the role due to conflicting schedules.

The role of Ula-Nara Yixiu eventually went to Hong Kong actress Ada Choi, who went on to win the Most Popular Actress award at the China TV Drama Awards, thanks to her performance as Ula-Nara Yixiu.

Sheran in New My Fair Princess.

Empresses in the Palace went on to become a smash hit, both in China and Japan, while New My Fair Princess tanked, with unfavourable reviews from audiences.

Today, Story of Yanxi Palace looks set to replicate Empresses in the Palace’s popularity amongst viewers. But, Sheren unfortunately missed out on another role in the drama, this time, that of the Empress Dowager.

The actress was originally on the list of shortlisted actresses for the role, but she had ultimately rejected the role as the pay was too low. With the drama’s soaring popularity these days, when asked if she regretted her decisions, Sheren replied, “Of course I have regrets.”

Photos: PBE Media

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