In the world of entertainment, surprises and upsets are always a thrilling part of award ceremonies. The recent Star Awards 2026 provided us with one such moment when Desmond Tan, a 39-year-old actor, walked away with the Best Actor trophy, leaving many in the audience, including himself, in a state of disbelief.
This year's Star Awards had a clear frontrunner in the Best Actor category: Chen Hanwei. With an impressive track record and a widely acclaimed performance as a cancer patient in “The Gift of Time,” Chen was the favorite to win. However, fate had other plans.
“Devil Behind The Gate,” the film that earned Tan the award, featured him in a challenging role as identical twin brothers with distinct personalities. When his name was called by Hong Kong actor Julian Cheung, Tan's initial reaction was one of confusion and disbelief. He admitted to feeling overwhelmed and having to fight for his composure.
Tan's win was not just a surprise; it was a testament to his talent and hard work. This was his second Best Actor win, the first being in 2018 for “When Duty Calls.” He also picked up two other awards that night, solidifying his status as a popular and respected actor.
“To be nominated alongside Chen Hanwei is an honor in itself,” Tan said, referring to his fellow nominee as the “final boss.” The respect and admiration Tan has for Chen is evident, and their competition, while intense, seems to have pushed both actors to deliver their best performances.
During his acceptance speech, Tan dedicated his win to his two-year-old daughter, crediting her as a source of strength and inspiration. He shared a heartwarming story of reading the script for “Devil Behind The Gate” while carrying his newborn daughter, a moment captured by his wife. Tan's dedication to his craft and his family is inspiring, and it's no wonder that his daughter serves as a powerful motivator.
When asked how he plans to explain his win to his daughter in the future, Tan offered a simple yet profound answer: “Believe in yourself, surround yourself with passionate and positive people, and your dreams will come true.” This philosophy is a beautiful reminder that success is often a result of hard work, passion, and the support of those around us.
Tan's unexpected win at the Star Awards 2026 is a reminder that in the world of entertainment, and in life, surprises can be delightful. It's a testament to the power of storytelling, the magic of cinema, and the talent of actors like Desmond Tan, who bring these stories to life.
As we reflect on this unexpected turn of events, we're left with a deeper appreciation for the art of acting and the impact it can have on our lives. It's a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the underdog's story is the most inspiring of all.
