In a surprising revelation, former TVB actress Cindy Au has announced her intention to re-enter the entertainment industry, driven by a pressing financial need. Au, who took a lengthy hiatus from acting after marrying renowned Hong Kong actor Roger Kwok in 2006, recently shared with HK01 that she “really needs money” following her divorce from Kwok earlier this year in May.
Cindy Au explained that her financial situation resonates with many who are facing similar challenges in Hong Kong. “I really need money now. Many people in Hong Kong are in the same situation, just waiting for money,” the 44-year-old actress conveyed. After stepping back from her career to focus on her family and raising her two children, Brad, 16, and Blair, 13, Au found herself out of touch with the fast-paced world she once thrived in.
Throughout her marriage, Au prioritized her family, taking care of her children and pursuing a master’s degree in nutrition. Reflecting on her absence from the industry, she confessed, “I lack experience. I haven’t filmed any dramas since 2005, so I’m quite out of touch. Most of the time, I was busy taking care of my children during the day and studying at night. It’s like I’ve returned to Earth from Mars, so I need to learn how to make money.”
The challenge of securing a place to live has also added to Au’s current challenges. For the first time, she navigated renting on her own. “It was my first time renting a place by myself, and I didn’t know how much commission to pay. I had to ask many people for advice as I was afraid of being scammed,” she shared, admitting the whole process was overwhelming. While she expressed a desire to eventually purchase a home, she acknowledged the need to first build up her savings, stating, “I haven’t worked or had any income for many years, so I don’t have that pot of gold.”
Addressing her personal life, Au made it clear that her primary focus is financial stability rather than romantic endeavors. When asked if friends were introducing her to potential partners, she humorously remarked, “Not many. They are probably afraid I’d be too much trouble.” Romance, as she emphasized, is not her current priority: “I’m thinking about money first.”
Cindy Au and Roger Kwok, who disclosed their separation on May 2, had been apart for two years before their official divorce announcement. Interestingly, Au chose not to be listed on Kwok’s financial assets, valued at HK$90 million, to avoid “complications and unnecessary hassle” according to reports from Dimsum Daily.
As Cindy Au embarks on this new chapter of her life, stepping back into the entertainment industry could mark a promising turn for the actress, who once captivated audiences on screen. Her journey underscores a relatable reality for many who face life’s unpredictable challenges and the resilience required to navigate them.