Life Lessons from Jeanette Aw

Jeanette plays dual roles as the nyonya Juxiang and her daughter, Yueniang, in the The Little Nyonya. She recalls, “A reporter asked me recently if the mute role of Juxiang was tailored for me so that viewers can accept me, before my speaking role as Yueniang [Juxiang’s daughter] came on. Apparently, people hate the way I talk. (Laughs) It’s so strange! I can’t change my voice but I’ve been taking lessons to change my enunciation. Funny thing is, when I was filming in China, the people there said the way I spoke was perfect. But when I’m here, it’s the opposite. What is it that they want from me? (Laughs) So now, I’m over that. If I change it, it won’t be me.”

“When I first started, I was very straightforward. I would say things that unknowingly offended people. Or if I wasn't happy during work, I would throw tantrums. I was that transparent. But as I got older, I stopped blaming others when things didn’t go my way. I’m not a sociable person When I’m quiet, people think I’m cold and aloof. That’s still an impression many have of me. I will talk to you when you talk to me. I’m not the kind of person who goes, (increases her pitch) ‘How are you! Nice shirt!’ Some people told me I would be even bigger if I was more ‘PR’, but I like to do things my own way. I’m not unfriendly — I’m just quiet (laughs).”

“I haven’t been in a proper relationship for many years. I don’t have the time. I did see someone for a while, but it didn’t work out because he was always asking about my job and my onscreen persona. He was quite sweet, but I got annoyed with his questions, like, ‘What is filming like?’ It’s hard to meet people because you don’t know what their real intentions are. Now that I’m on leave, I hope my friends will introduce me to someone (giggles). In 2009, I hope to fall in love. That will probably make me even happier (laughs).”