Singer-actor rejuvenates career by shifting his focus to the mainland

Approaching middle age can be a difficult adjustment career-wise for a former idol, but for Malaysian singer-actor Nicholas Teo, it became a catalyst for reinvention.

Since shifting his focus to the Chinese mainland's entertainment scene in 2021 — the year he turned 40 — Teo has embraced bold new endeavors while mastering an enviable work-life equilibrium.

In recent years, he has enjoyed several career highlights in Chinese reality shows. For instance, in the third season of the music show Call Me by Fire, the typically reserved performer surprised audiences with his dynamic singing and dancing, while also showcasing his fit physique. Later, in the second season of the acting competition Memories Beyond Horizon, he earned praise from judges for his portrayal of a villain and performing musicals.