Photo: Courtesy of Li Xinyi

Name: Li Xinyi

Job: actress

Hometown: Beijing

Language: Chinese

By Wu Ningning

Emerging actress Li Xinyi has achieved fame by acting as a strong career woman in comedy Chounü Wudi, which translates literally as "ugly invincible girl," China's answer to the popular Ugly Betty series. Li plays Li Anqian, the hard-bitten boss of the geeky "Betty" character. Of course, in person she's nothing like her character in her hit TV show. "I'm not as strong as my outer appearance," she confesses.

Apart from being stylish, Li is articulate yet modest about her career success so far, and believes she will live by her own rules, not those forced on her by success. "Performance is a journey of constant learning, of continual improvement, rather than competition for money and reputation," she says.

Having acted in a variety of roles on both the big and small screen, Li's next role will be starring as the wife of revolutionary leader Lin Juemin in upcoming movie Xinhai Revolution, about the Chinese Revolution of 1911. Here, the low-key actress gives us an insight on her life, art and her fans.

Was there a time when you first realized that you were becoming famous?

When did I feel it? Wow. Probably about the time the soap opera Chounü Wudi came out, in which I played an alpha woman who was ambitious, career-oriented and judgmental. I loved the character, but at very beginning, I didn't know how the audience would react, till one day I flew to Shanghai for a business event. I was mobbed by fans, waving signs and screaming my name.

Do you think you are a tough kind of person?

Not at all. I'm a very easy-going and relaxed person in reality. Even entering the entertainment business, I haven't changed one bit. Back then, I was asked to play the tough girl, I tried to get into the character as much as I could.

When did you first know you wanted to be an actress?

I've never thought about being a star. Ever since I was little, I started to dance just to keep healthy. When I was 14, I attended the Beijing Dance Academy, where I met my classmate Zhang Ziyi, but at that time, both of us dreamed of being a dancer.

After I graduated, I planned to study in the UK with my sister. Unfortunately my visa was rejected again and again, so I had to give up. Then people started encouraging me to go to Art College, so I applied the Central Academy of Drama and was finally enrolled in 1999.

Do you admire your former classmate Zhang Ziyi?

Not really. Zhang is a girl with great ambition and inspiration. Yet I am not an ambitious girl, I just want to be myself. Honestly most actors or actresses I have worked with before are more popular than me such as Tang Wei, heroine of Ang Lee's film Lust Caution.

Would you perform in a film with explicit sex scenes like Lust Caution?

No. I think I can't break through personal barriers physically and psychologically. The most important thing about the love scenes is not only the nudity but also the emotion and courage. Presently I have no confidence to act in love scenes.

You also played many tragic characters. You must be exhausted after these scenes?

It can get pretty tiring, especially when you get into it. So after I've finished I try to leave everything behind and detach myself from the character. Interestingly before shooting these sorrowful scenes, I drink a lot of water to guarantee I shed enough tears.

Did you ever consider not becoming an actress?

Maybe a playwright.

What's the most difficult aspect of your job?

Selecting the right production team is the most challenging part. A popular TV series is an effort of teamwork. The production process depends on so many things and especially professional persons you always have to rely on. A highly-qualified production team is crucial to get high TV ratings.

Would you like to try Hollywood one day?

Everywhere is the same. I simply want to do good work and don't mind where it is.

As an actress, do you think age would hold back your career?

I don't think so. As I get older I understand myself better and become more confident and comfortable in my performances. More importantly, I've obtained quite a few opportunities to create characters in a variety of roles, from a young lady to an old lady, from a career woman to a housewife. In a word, with age, comes chances.

Are you concerned about what fans think of you?

Yeah. I do care about fan's criticisms, but I won't please everyone. I even dislike them following me blindly. I hope to be their role model to inspire them. Events for the fan club are not simply designed for getting together, I guide them do some meaningful things for charity organizations or environmental groups.

It's said you've been vegetarian for four years. Why? For health?

No. As an environmentalist, I consider a meat-free life is a way to help to reduce carbon emissions. Besides, by not eating meat I've rediscovered more fascinating and healthy cuisine.

wuningning@globaltimes.com.cn