Vivian Wu’s acting career has been a captivating journey, filled with intriguing twists and turns. From her on-screen debut in the 1983 film Forever Young to her recent return to Hollywood with the 2020 TV series Away, Wu has consistently captivated audiences with her talent and charm. Join us as we explore 10 lesser-known facts about this remarkable actress.
1. Acting Runs in the Family
Vivian Wu was practically destined for the spotlight, thanks to her mother, Zhu Manfang, a renowned Chinese actress who starred in numerous productions during the 70s and 80s. Manfang’s most recent on-screen appearance was in the 1999 TV series My Cousin Ji Xiang.
2. A Degree in Tourism
Despite her passion for acting, Wu chose to study a different field in college. She attended Hawaii Pacific University, where she earned a degree in tourism. However, it seems that her heart remained in the world of acting, as she never pursued a career in tourism.
3. A Heart for Charity
Vivian Wu is deeply committed to helping others and has worked with numerous charitable organizations throughout her career. In 1999, she even founded her own organization, the Vivian Wu and Friends Educational Charity Foundation, although it’s unclear if the foundation is still active today.
4. Married to a Director
In 1996, Wu tied the knot with director/producer Oscar L. Costo. While the couple doesn’t have any children, they share a mutual love for the entertainment industry. One of Oscar’s most recent credits includes producing several episodes of the popular TV series In Plain Sight in 2008.
5. Recognized for Her Beauty
Wu’s acting prowess isn’t her only claim to fame; her stunning looks have also garnered attention. In 1990, People Magazine included her on their list of The 50 Most Beautiful People in the World, alongside celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Goldie Hawn.
6. A Private Life
Despite her years in the limelight, Wu has always been a private person, preferring to keep the details of her personal life under wraps. She maintains a low profile, avoiding social media and focusing on her professional life during interviews.
7. A Teenage Start
Wu’s love for acting began in her teenage years, and she landed her first on-screen role at the tender age of 18. This early start laid the foundation for her successful and enduring career in the industry.
8. A Producer Too
While Wu is best known for her on-screen performances, she has also dabbled in behind-the-scenes work as a producer. According to her IMDB page, she has produced several films, including the 2010 movie Shanghai Blue.
9. Away Reignited Her Hollywood Passion
After moving back to China to be near her ailing father, Wu continued to receive scripts for American projects, but none truly captured her interest. That changed when she read the script for Away. In an interview with Entertainment Tonight, she said, “This script came to me while I was shooting in the mountains playing an Empress from a thousand years ago. So to me, the fact that I would be wearing a spacesuit and going to Mars with Hilary Swank sounded fantastic to me.”
10. A Woman of Faith
While Wu has been relatively private about her religious beliefs, it’s clear that her faith plays an important role in her life. During an interview for Away, she was asked what item she would bring with her into space if she were a real astronaut. Wu chose the Bible, calling it “the wisest book of humanity” and a source of positivity.
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