Meet Ryan, a veteran Singaporean actor who has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. From acting in Jack Neo films to engaging local television audiences, his journey has been marked not only by professional achievements but also by deeply personal battles with mental health.
In this heartfelt interview, Ryan opens up about the highs and lows of showbiz, surviving an unprovoked attack, and why he’s using his platform today to raise awareness and inspire others struggling in silence. His message is clear: keep moving, and never give up.
You’ve had a long career in film and television, including working with Jack Neo. What initially drew you to acting, and what keeps you going today?
I started acting when I was 15. At the time, a TV station was looking for extras, and I wanted to earn some extra money. After my first experience on set, I found myself getting hooked—it was really fun. I even made a bet with my friend that one day, we’d become famous. That dream didn’t materialise until 16 years later when I met Jack Neo.
What keeps me going is passion. Acting gives me a sense of fulfilment that’s hard to find elsewhere. I’ve always felt inferior in other areas of my life, but when I act, especially when I receive compliments from the public or achieve something, it makes me genuinely happy. That feeling is priceless.
Many fans know you from your on-screen roles, but behind the scenes, you’ve shared that you struggle with mental health. What has that journey been like for you?
It’s been a tough, rollercoaster journey. I’ve had sleep issues since I was young and, over the years, my experiences have caused that struggle to build up. Sadly, society still stigmatises people with mental health challenges.
Many look at us differently or treat us as if we’re weak or dangerous. Some even make hurtful comments, especially on social media.
It’s not just me—many veteran and new actors alike face this. The stigma is painful. If your mental strength isn’t solid, it’s easy to spiral. That’s why I always encourage others to be kind and withhold judgment.
You were recently the victim of an unprovoked attack that shocked many of your supporters. How are you doing now, and what helped you cope with such a traumatic experience?
The attack changed me. Before that, I used to care deeply about negative comments online—I would read every one. But after the incident, I realised those comments don’t reflect who I am or what actually happened.
Some people just want to bring others down, especially those they feel are doing better than them. Now, I no longer waste energy on haters.
What really traumatised me wasn’t just the attack—it was the betrayal of trust. I used to be very open and friendly with the public. I’d spend hours chatting after performances, treating supporters like friends or family.
But now, I’m more cautious. I don’t reveal my location, and I keep a physical and emotional distance from strangers. It’s sad, but I have to protect myself.
If you’re struggling, talk to someone. Don’t bottle everything up. Not everyone will understand, but if you talk to ten people, one or two might offer the support or advice you need. It only takes one meaningful conversation to shift your perspective.
What message would you like to share with others who may be silently struggling with mental health or recovering from trauma?
I’ve been lucky—because of my career, I’ve received support from kind people. But many others suffer in silence, with no help. That’s why I continue to speak up and appear on screen. Even though I’ve lost jobs and faced ridicule, I want people to know they’re not alone.
If you’re struggling, talk to someone. Don’t bottle everything up. Not everyone will understand, but if you talk to ten people, one or two might offer the support or advice you need. It only takes one meaningful conversation to shift your perspective.
For example, I used to struggle with gambling. Many people told me to stop, but I didn’t listen—until one day, one person said something that finally made sense to me. In just 15 minutes, he changed my life.
So please, keep going. Don’t give up on yourself. Seek help, speak out, and know that even if you fall, you can still get back up.
In your opinion, what makes a good actor?
First, you must do your homework. Read the script thoroughly and understand your character. That’s the foundation. But beyond that, being a good actor means having life experience. You need to connect emotionally with the role—whether it’s a doctor, a father, or a villain.
If you’ve never lived that experience, go and observe. For example, if you’re playing a doctor, spend time in a hospital, watch how they move, how they speak, how they interact. You’ll absorb those behaviours and reflect them naturally. That kind of depth can’t be faked—it must be felt.
What are your plans in the near future as an actor, as well as for your company Longmao Studio?
My dream is still to act. I’d love to win an award one day—that’s always been a goal. But I know it’s going to be difficult, especially after what I’ve been through. While there are still a few directors who believe in me, I’ve also faced many rejections.
So I’m shifting focus. These days, anyone with a phone can become a content creator. My new dream is to direct and produce dramas or movies for online platforms like TikTok. I want to create stories based on real experiences—things I’ve gone through—so that audiences can laugh, cry, and connect. I love entertaining people. That will always be my passion.
What’s your vision for Singapore in the next five years?
The world is facing a lot of chaos—wars, climate change, floods. But Singapore is still relatively stable and peaceful, and we should be thankful. I believe in our government, but we also need to take responsibility as individuals. Save more, don’t overspend. Stock up on essentials. Be prepared. We never know what might happen. We have to protect our families and community.
If you could have a superpower for one day, what would it be and why?
If I had a superpower, I’d want to join The Avengers! I’d love a power that lets me eat as much as I want without getting fat—that would be amazing. But more seriously, I’d want a superpower that could heal addiction and mental illness. So many people are suffering silently. If I could take away their pain, I would.
Connect with Ryan: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
