Over the past 20 years of Liu Shishi’s acting career, she has portrayed a wide range of characters, from ancient heroines to modern-day elites, spanning different eras and timelines. Her roles have accompanied audiences through their own journeys and earned their deep admiration. A common thread runs through all her characters: each of them has something they are determined to protect, and they are willing to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to it. This steadfast belief is also the strength that Liu Shishi conveys to her audience.
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You made your acting debut in 2004. Over the past 20 years, how has your mindset toward acting evolved?
Honestly, my mindset about acting and approaching roles hasn’t fundamentally changed. I’ve always just wanted to give my best to every character, to present them well to the audience, and to bring more and better stories to everyone.
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Could you introduce your characters in your recent works, A Journey to Love and Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Love in Pavilion? What have you learned from playing these roles?
I wouldn’t say it’s about what I’ve learned, but more about what these characters convey. For example, Ru Yi and Huai Zhu are two completely different characters with distinct personalities and backgrounds. Ru Yi is more outwardly resilient and strong, while Huai Zhu is more introverted and contemplative. But they share a common trait: they each have something they want to protect, and they’re steadfast in dedicating themselves to it. I think that’s the energy they’ve passed on to me.
Wulu earrings in white gold with diamonds and akoya pearls, Qeelin. Dress, Samuel Guiyang. Coat, Tom Ford. Shoes, Ferragamo.
The entertainment industry moves at a very fast pace. Could you share how you balance work and life? What do you think is the key to maintaining physical and mental well-being?
I wouldn’t say I have any specific tips—it’s just about doing what needs to be done at the moment. When I’m filming, I focus on filming. When I’m resting, I rest well. It’s about doing the best you can in the present. The world around us is always changing, but I think focusing on the present is what matters most.
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What’s your daily life like when you’re not working? What do you enjoy doing?
I usually spend my time reading novels, watching anime, and eating the foods I enjoy. Sometimes I’ll go shopping or travel—it all depends on what plans I have at the time.
How would you describe your personal style? Could you share some of your favorite fashion items?
I don’t think I have a fixed style. For me, it’s about knowing what suits me and feeling comfortable in it. As for fashion items, I lean toward hats—they’re convenient because I don’t need to style my hair, and they’re easy to pair with outfits.
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Looking back on this past year, what are your reflections and takeaways? And as you look ahead to 2025, have you set any goals for yourself?
I’m not someone who reflects on or summarizes things on a yearly basis. Of course, there are moments of reflection in daily life, but I tend to keep those feelings to myself and process them slowly over time. I’m also not someone who sets concrete goals, but I do have hopes. For example, I hope that next year, when new projects are released, the characters I’ve portrayed will resonate with the audience.
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What kind of roles or projects would you like to challenge yourself with in the future? What are your criteria when selecting new scripts?
I don’t like to predefine specific types of roles or projects. I want to preserve the sense of surprise when encountering a new story. Generally, when I read a script and feel a connection with the character, and when the story captivates me and ignites my desire to act, that’s what I focus on the most.
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With new technologies like virtual production and artificial intelligence developing rapidly in the entertainment industry, how do you view these changes as an actor?
Technology evolves every day—it can be used to produce and to assist. For actors, the creative process is an active one, and technology can serve as a helpful tool during that process. For instance, things like wire work or special effects can enhance our performances. If it helps us, then I think that’s great.
What advice or encouragement would you give to new actors?
Everyone has their own approach and circumstances, so it’s hard to give specific advice. I just hope they’ll have the chance to play roles they love and that their projects will be well-received by audiences.
Photography and Creative Direction: Jumbo Tsui
Fashion Direction: Evan Feng
Creative Producer: Marina Fairfax
On Set Producer: Julien Pegourier
Makeup Artist: Xin Miao
Hair Stylist: Issac Yu
Photography Assistant: Yan Jun
Fashion Assistants: Chag.uan, C.Chloe & Aura
Makeup Assistant: Xin Xin Hair
Stylist Assistant: Liao Liao
Production Assistant: Bunny
Creative Consultant: Soya Song
Digital Tech: Mu Sheng
Editor
Bonnie Yau
