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Straits Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Celeb Pawrents: Actor-couple Jesseca Liu and Jeremy Chan track their fur kids with AirTags
Celebrity couple Jesseca Liu and Jeremy Chan with their cats Tigger, a white 19-year-old male domestic shorthair, and Crusso Meimei, a three-year-old female tabby. PHOTO: COURTESY OF JESSECA LIU SINGAPORE – Celebrity couple Jesseca Liu and Jeremy Chan are so protective of their fur kids that they keep a close watch on them all the time. The actors installed closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to monitor their two cats, who are kept strictly indoors. They also placed AirTags on their collars to track their location should they escape. Liu, 46, and Chan, 43, are devoted pawrents to Tigger, a white 19-year-old male domestic shorthair, and Crusso Meimei, a grey three-year-old female tabby. Both were adopted when they were kittens. The couple currently shuttle between Singapore and Malaysia to film Mediacorp's 2026 blockbuster drama The Leftovers. The dystopian crime series about organ trafficking also stars Li Nanxing, Zhang Zetong, Cheryl Chou and Desmond Tan. Despite their busy schedules, Chan and Liu, who tied the knot in 2017, try to spend as much time with their cats as possible and constantly check the CCTV cameras via their phones to see how they are doing at home. If they are both away from home for a longer period, the popular Malaysian actress will call in her friend, who is 'the cats' godmother and takes care of them like her own children'. Liu is up for the Best Actress trophy at the Star Awards 2025 on July 6 for her strong performance in crime drama Unforgivable (2024). She also earned nominations in five other categories, including two Favourite Female Character awards for her roles in Unforgivable and the drama Once Upon A New Year's Eve (2024). Chan received three nominations for the annual Mediacorp awards, including Top 10 Male Artistes, Best Programme Host and Most Charismatic Actor. The Singaporean actor-host hosts culinary show Murder On The Menu, now showing on Channel 8 on Wednesdays at 8pm as well as on mewatch. Liu's affinity for animals can be traced back to her formative years in Langkawi, Malaysia, where there were many stray cats and dogs. 'Growing up, I was constantly surrounded by animals. In a way, they were all my pets,' she says. Before the couple adopted Crusso Meimei, they had another male tabby named Crusso, who died in November 2021 from pancreatic cancer. He was 14 years old. 'Crusso Meimei reminded us so much of Crusso that we decided to name her after her older brother,' says Liu. She adds that she has always been particularly drawn to cats. She attributes this to a sense of emotional kinship with them. 'I believe cats are very much like me – emotionally sensitive yet not overtly expressive,' she says. 'How can you tell they're sensitive? Just look at how wildly they play with you. When it comes to the humans they love, they always retract their claws. They would never intentionally hurt you.' A particularly touching memory that epitomises this bond involves her first cat, Tigger. On occasions when Liu found herself locked out of her home, Tigger would ingeniously squeeze through a window simply to sit by her side until help arrived. 'If he truly wished to run away, he could have done so easily. Yet every time he 'escaped', it was solely to be with me,' she says, adding that Tigger has always been a gentle, reliable companion. The relationship between Tigger and Crusso Meimei has evolved. Given the significant age difference – Tigger being a senior cat and Crusso Meimei still youthful – the initial adjustment period was understandably challenging. 'They had a love-hate relationship. It warms my heart sometimes to see them cosy up to each other as brother and sister,' says Liu. 'Meimei is full of boundless energy,' adds the Emerald Hill (2025) actress. 'She loves to play and knows exactly when to turn on her charm.' Describing both cats as very 'manja' (Malay for affectionate) towards them, Liu feels Tigger and Crusso Meimei may be more attached to her husband, as he spends a lot of time playing with them. 'He's also the strict dad, while I'm the gentle mum,' Liu says, adding that she's her 'cats' slave' and she cannot stop cuddling them. Both cats sleep with the couple and 'stick to us at different times'. She adds, with a laugh: 'It's funny how smart they are – they totally know who to go to depending on what they want.' Caring for Tigger and Crusso Meimei is a responsibility Liu and Chan take very seriously. Both cats are sterilised, microchipped and kept strictly indoors for their safety. 'We don't take them out as they are shy and afraid of new environments. We don't want to stress them out,' says Liu. Their dietary needs are carefully managed, with a particular emphasis on providing Tigger with proper nutrition tailored to his senior age. Despite their busy schedules, Chan and Liu, who tied the knot in 2017, try to spend as much time with their cats as possible. PHOTO: COURTESY OF JESSECA LIU While the joy of having pets is immeasurable, Liu acknowledges that it is not without challenges. A particularly alarming incident occurred in 2024 when Crusso Meimei leapt up to a cabinet and tried to jump down without realising how high it was. The resulting fall was accompanied by a distressing cry, prompting an urgent visit to the veterinarian. Fortunately, Crusso Meimei emerged unscathed, but the incident was a stark reminder of the constant vigilance that pet ownership demands. 'That incident really gave us a huge scare,' says Liu. Joanne Soh is a lifestyle correspondent at The Straits Times, with a special interest in entertainment and pop culture. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Vogue Singapore
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Vogue Singapore
Tasha Low on culture, craft and chasing her own rhythm
There's a certain je ne sais quoi about Tasha Low, one that has carried her through many renditions of her creative career, with a spark that has captivated fans all over the world. And it's no wonder. At 31 years old—she turns 32 in October—the starlet, known for her doe eyes, signature locks and cherub-like visage, has showbiz in her blood, having started dancing at the tender age of two. On the beauty front, fermented rice water was traditionally used to cool the skin. Known as Bedak Sejuk or 'cold powder', it is believed to have brightening and smoothing qualities. Bee de Chaumet earrings and L'Épi de Blé de Chaumet necklace; Laichan dress. Zantz Han 'Dance was my first language of expression,' she notes. 'My father taught me ballroom dancing when I was a toddler and it became our way of bonding. That foundation gave me confidence in movement and stage presence, which later became crucial for both singing and acting.' It was this early start that led Low to debut in the K-pop group Skarf, a chapter she credits with shaping much of who she is today, from instilling discipline and resilience to refining her craft. Still, she felt a strong pull to return to Singapore and delve into local stories. 'I've always been drawn to a more holistic form of performance, where music, movement and story all come together.' Floral motifs were a familiar sight in Peranakan design, often found on vases, tiles, and everyday objects around the home. Zantz Han It's this very pull that has brought her to our screens. In Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story —the sequel to Channel 8's 2008 series The Little Nyonya —Low stars in the role of Zhang Xin Niang, in a drama that traces the lives of the Zhang family, a Peranakan household living at Emerald Hill. 'Zhang Xin Niang is strong-willed, passionate and deeply loyal to her family, yet she's constantly torn between duty and desire,' reflects Low. 'What I love about her is that she's flawed and real. She's not just a product of her time, but someone trying to break free from it.' Apart from drawing 1.35 million viewers on Mediacorp platforms as well as holding on to Netflix's top 10 streamed shows, it's clear that Low's trajectory has been set for her. As for what's in store? She hopes to release more music soon, something close to her heart, and she'll be diving into a new drama project in the second half of the year. Here, she talks about her K-pop start, honing her craft and what lies on the horizon. Songket is a decorative weaving technique that uses gold or silver threads to form intricate motifs. Drawing inspiration from this heritage craft, Malaysian fashion designer Behati created a custom jacket, reinterpreting the tradition for the present day. Bee de Chaumet earrings, necklace and bracelets; Behati jacket. Zantz Han Hi Tasha, thank you so much for joining us today. Tell us more about your beginnings in K-pop. The K-pop industry is extremely regimented; everything is planned down to the second. Coming back to Singapore, I had to adjust to a different rhythm where there was more space to contribute creatively. At first, the lack of structure felt unfamiliar, but I eventually found it refreshing. What felt familiar was the community; it's small here, and that closeness brings a different kind of warmth and support. Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story has been a massive success and a significant milestone in your acting career. What initially drew you to this project and how did you prepare? I was immediately drawn to the emotional depth of Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story , and the role of Zhang Xin Niang was such a layered, complex character. It felt like a rare opportunity to explore heritage and identity in a way that was both personal and universal. To prepare, I dove deep into the culture: learning traditional practices, the language nuances and even some nyonya cooking. It wasn't just about playing a role; it was about honouring a legacy. Costumes were such a big part of stepping into Xin Niang's world. The intricate kebayas and accessories weren't just beautiful; they told a story of tradition, class and emotional nuance. Each piece helped me understand her status, her constraints and her quiet acts of rebellion. Another creation by Behati offers a playful twist on the peony, this time in a translucent, peekaboo style. It experiments with proportion and perspective, imagining the motif in a bolder, more daring way. Bee de Chaumet earrings, necklace and rings; Behati bolero, coat and dress; Christian Louboutin shoes; socks, stylist's own. Zantz Han Working alongside your former Skarf bandmate, Ferlyn Wong, must have been a special experience. It was surreal and so special. Ferlyn and I have shared such a unique chapter of our lives together, so stepping onto set with her again felt both familiar and fresh. There was an unspoken trust between us, which made our scenes more intuitive. But we also had to remind ourselves that we were no longer bandmates onstage, we were actors telling a new story. Beyond Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story , you've taken on a diverse range of acting projects. Is there a particular role or genre that you've enjoyed the most? I've loved exploring roles that sit in the grey areas; characters who are emotionally complex and morally conflicted. Those roles teach me a lot about empathy and about not judging people too quickly. Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story challenged me the most in terms of emotional stamina and cultural responsibility. I'd love to dive into psychological thrillers or period dramas with a modern lens. There's so much depth to explore in characters grappling with identity, history and desire. I also hope to work with directors who challenge their actors; people like Anthony Chen or even international voices like Park Chan-wook. Indonesian designer Toton reimagines the kebaya, merging the juxtaposition of fabrics and shape. Bee de Chaumet earrings, necklace, bracelets and ring; Toton top and skirt. Zantz Han What has been the biggest accomplishment or milestone in your career so far? Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story was definitely a turning point. Not just because of the recognition, but because I felt like I poured my heart into it. It was a full-circle moment when all the parts of my journey—dance, performance, language, culture—came together. My loved ones and my cats keep me grounded. I try to create pockets of quiet in a very loud industry, whether it's journalling, cuddling with my cats or just being in nature. Staying connected to my 'why' helps. I do this because I love stories, not because I want to chase perfection. How do you maintain your physical and mental well-being with such a demanding schedule? When I'm filming, the days are long and immersive. I wake early, head to set and stay focused until wrap. On my off days, I try to slow down. A perfect Sunday for me is sleeping in, playing with my cats, journalling and being near nature. Mentally, I give myself permission to rest. Physically, I keep active by hiking or playing badminton with friends, which are fun activities and keep me feeling strong. The use of flowers was thoughtful and intentional, with different blooms chosen for the meanings they held. Zantz Han If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be? Don't rush to become someone else's version of success. Trust your timing. And rest is not a weakness. What do you hope fans take away from your work? I hope they feel seen. Whether it's joy, heartbreak or growth, I want my work to make people feel less alone. That's the magic of performance to me. What are your long-term aspirations for your career in the entertainment industry, both locally and internationally? I hope to keep creating work that feels honest and grounded, whether that's in Singapore or beyond. I'd love to collaborate across cultures and languages, especially in projects that bring Asian stories to the global stage. There's a growing appreciation for local stories and talent, which is encouraging. But there's still room for risk-taking and deeper investment in the arts. I hope we continue to create space for nuanced storytelling and diverse voices. The richness of Peranakan culture can be found even in the intricate details of dishware—quietly emblematic of a heritage built on care and tradition. Zantz Han Tell us about your experience on our Vogue Singapore shoot, which was inspired by Peranakan culture as well. It was such a dream! Fashion is another way I get to express different sides of myself. The Vogue team made me feel bold and elegant, while still being me. I loved playing with textures and silhouettes I wouldn't normally wear. It was liberating. This issue is themed 'Home'. What does the word, in the context of Singapore and SG60, mean to you? Home is where the heart is, a safe space where my loved ones are. After spending years overseas, I've come to treasure the small things here: the smell of local food, the sound of Singlish, the familiarity of faces. Home is comfort. It's identity. SG60 is a moment to reflect on how far we've come as a nation and how much more we can grow, especially creatively. I hope the next chapter includes even more support for the arts and for stories that speak to the heart of who we are. Toton also draws inspiration from white lace kebayas, which gained popularity in the early 20th century among Peranakan, European and Eurasian women. Bee de Chaumet earrings, bracelets and ring, and L'Épi de Bléde Chaumet necklace; Toton top, corset and pants. Zantz Han What were some of your favourite memories growing up? Playing block catching with my cousins and running around void decks barefoot. Life felt simple and joy was everywhere. Those were the days before smartphones and they were magic. What's next? I'll be releasing more music soon—something close to my heart—and diving into a new drama project in the second half of the year. Personally, I'm learning to say yes to things that spark joy and no to things that don't. Photographer Zantz Han Stylists Desmond Lim and Nicholas See Hair stylist Ryan Yap/Passion Hair Salon Make-up artist Kim Manicurist Filicia Takahashi/Nail Bliss Producer David Bay Set design Abegail Loreno Arendayen Florist Fawn World Photographer's assistants Sin Yean Yam, RQ and Michelle Yap Manicurist's assistants Celine Tan and Summer Chong/Nail Bliss Set designer's assistant Clarice Teh Florist's assistant Rachel Ng Stylist's assistants Lance Aeron and Kuan Special thanks to True Blue Cuisine Vogue Singapore's July/August 'Home' issue will be out on newsstands from 13 July and available to preorder online.
Straits Times
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Actress Hong Ling recounts freezing honeymoon in Switzerland -- and how husband Nick Teo saved the day
Hong Ling and Nick Teo went for their honeymoon more than one year after their marriage. Lim Ruey Yan The Straits Times June 22, 2025 Home-grown actress Hong Ling did not mind leaving all the planning for her recent honeymoon to her husband, actor Nick Teo. The Mediacorp celebrity couple said on social media in May and June that they had travelled to Switzerland and Italy for a two-week honeymoon. As she is the eldest child in her family, Hong, 30, usually plans the itinerary for her family's overseas trips. However, her honeymoon was totally arranged by Teo, 35, whom she married in December 2023. "I have not organised things after being with Nick," Hong told Lianhe Zaobao on June 18. "In his eyes, I am a girl who is a little confused and does not know anything." The actress was speaking to the Chinese-language newspaper during a coffee session with the media for Mediacorp's new TV series The Spirit Hunter. "I have always been the one in charge of planning at home," Hong said. "Perhaps I have someone to rely on after meeting him, so I'm willing to let go and let him do the planning." Revealing the reason for delaying their honeymoon, she said: "We took on acting roles at different times, so it just dragged on for a year and a half." The actress starred in the crime drama Unforgivable (2024), for which she has a Best Actress nomination at the Star Awards on July 6, alongside co-star Jesseca Liu. Meanwhile, Teo acted in pet and marriage drama Furever Yours (2024) and the blockbuster series Emerald Hill - The Little Nyonya Story (2025). Hong told Zaobao that she cannot forget the snow-capped mountains of Switzerland, which was chosen as her husband had been looking forward to visiting the country. She recalled that both her agent and actress Jeanette Aw had told her it would not be very cold in Switzerland. Instead, it rained for several days when she and Teo arrived in Switzerland, with the temperature on the mountains dropping to as low as minus 11 deg C. She was saved by Teo's advance planning; he had packed a puffer jacket that kept her warm. On Mother's Day, Hong went public on social media about her miscarriage. She disclosed to Zaobao that she felt relieved after opening up about the heart-breaking incident. With enough time to rest, she said, she has recovered well. The actress recently fell in love with pickleball, and she and Teo would invite friends to enjoy the sport together. "I felt it was fun and went to learn it," she said. "I finally stepped out of the room to play last week. I quite like it and will likely continue to play." In The Spirit Hunter, which premieres on Channel 8 on July 3, Hong plays an ordinary young woman embarking on a journey to eliminate ghosts and malevolent spirits after receiving a sword. It also stars Ferlyn G, Richie Koh, Tyler Ten and Elvin Ng. Hong will be involved in action scenes again in the new drama, just like in Unforgiven. She does not feel her stamina has improved, though. "On the contrary, I felt as if I have become weak," she said. "It was very tiring filming the fighting scenes and I didn't want to move at all after I was done with them." Click here to contribute a story or submit it to our WhatsApp Get more of Stomp's latest updates by following us on:
The Star
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Singaporean actress Hong Ling leaves honeymoon planning to husband Nick Teo
Hong Ling and Nick Teo went for their honeymoon more than one year after their marriage. Photos: Nick Teo/Instagram Singaporean actress Hong Ling did not mind leaving all the planning for her recent honeymoon to her husband, actor Nick Teo. The Mediacorp celebrity couple said on social media in May and June that they had travelled to Switzerland and Italy for a two-week honeymoon. As she is the eldest child in her family, Hong, 30, usually plans the itinerary for her family's overseas trips. However, her honeymoon was totally arranged by Teo, 35, whom she married in December 2023. 'I have not organised things after being with Nick,' Hong told Lianhe Zaobao on June 18. 'In his eyes, I am a girl who is a little confused and does not know anything.' The actress was speaking to the Chinese-language newspaper during a coffee session with the media for Mediacorp's new TV series The Spirit Hunter. 'I have always been the one in charge of planning at home,' Hong said. 'Perhaps I have someone to rely on after meeting him, so I'm willing to let go and let him do the planning.' Revealing the reason for delaying their honeymoon, she said: 'We took on acting roles at different times, so it just dragged on for a year and a half.' The actress starred in the crime drama Unforgivable (2024), for which she has a Best Actress nomination at the Star Awards on July 6, alongside co-star Jesseca Liu. Meanwhile, Teo acted in pet and marriage drama Furever Yours (2024) and the blockbuster series Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story (2025). Hong told Zaobao that she cannot forget the snow-capped mountains of Switzerland, which was chosen as her husband had been looking forward to visiting the country. She recalled that both her agent and actress Jeanette Aw had told her it would not be very cold in Switzerland. Instead, it rained for several days when she and Teo arrived in Switzerland, with the temperature on the mountains dropping to as low as minus 11 deg C. She was saved by Teo's advance planning; he had packed a puffer jacket that kept her warm. On Mother's Day, Hong went public on social media about her miscarriage. She disclosed to Zaobao that she felt relieved after opening up about the heart-breaking incident. With enough time to rest, she said, she has recovered well. The actress recently fell in love with pickleball, and she and Teo would invite friends to enjoy the sport together. 'I felt it was fun and went to learn it,' she said. 'I finally stepped out of the room to play last week. I quite like it and will likely continue to play.' In The Spirit Hunter, which premieres on Channel 8 on July 3, Hong plays an ordinary young woman embarking on a journey to eliminate ghosts and malevolent spirits after receiving a sword. It also stars Ferlyn G, Richie Koh, Tyler Ten and Elvin Ng. Hong will be involved in action scenes again in the new drama, just like in Unforgiven . She does not feel her stamina has improved, though. 'On the contrary, I felt as if I have become weak,' she said. 'It was very tiring filming the fighting scenes and I didn't want to move at all after I was done with them.' – The Straits Times/Asia News Network
AsiaOne
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- AsiaOne
Ferlyn Wong had emergency eye surgery after incident on set of new drama, Entertainment News
Local actress Ferlyn Wong had a health scare when she woke up one morning in early December last year and couldn't open her eyes. Visiting the hospital a second time for the same ailment, she had expected the doctor to give her stronger medicine. Instead, she was shocked to hear that she needed emergency surgery immediately. While promoting her new drama The Spirit Hunter, the 33-year-old told AsiaOne in a recent interview that around two and a half weeks earlier, she was filming in a "rough and sandy" environment. Despite this, Ferlyn was determined to do most of her character Hua Cheng Feng's fights and stunts herself. "We were actually attached to a stunt double for every single scene," she said. "But I set a very high expectation for myself and I wanted to do most of the scenes." She added she performed 80 per cent of her scenes herself. The production team used strong wind effects, sending sand into the air and into the puddles left behind by the morning's rain. After filming the scene, Ferlyn fell into a puddle of muddy water, where a lot of sand went into her eyes. "The next day I felt something was off with my eye," she shared. "I thought in just one or two days, it would be fine, you know?" As the day went by, Ferlyn felt "weirder" so she saw a doctor and was prescribed medicine. However, her condition worsened and she ended up battling a severe eye infection that required surgery. She told us that her manager and parents were overseas at that time, and so she had to leave the hospital by herself. Although filming was delayed for four days because of her condition, the production staff put the actors' safety and health first, she said. Ferlyn has since recovered with no impact to her vision, but shared that she developed a double eyelid on her right eye after the surgery. In The Spirit Hunter, she plays Hua Cheng Feng, a swordswoman with a life purpose — to give back to her god-uncle after he saved her life. Hong Ling plays protagonist Tian Nana, a 20-year-old girl burdened to carry a toy sword infused with the spirit of Jian Ling (Richie Koh), which curses her to see supernatural entities that she must defeat. Ferlyn shared that the script was inspired by the concept of yin and yang, where there's darkness within the light and light within the darkness. "Who says good won't do evil? Who says bad won't do good?" she said. "People would think that Hua Cheng Feng is evil, but there's always a reason to why she's doing what she's doing." The Spirit Hunter, which also stars Tyler Ten, will be available on demand for free on Mewatch from June 30 and premieres on July 3, airing on weekdays at 9pm on Channel 8. [[nid:719295]] No part of this article can be reproduced without permission from AsiaOne.
