1. Johnny Trí Nguyễn
Actor Johnny Trí Nguyễn, born Nguyễn Chánh Minh Trí on January 16, 1974, is a Vietnamese-American actor best known for his leading roles in martial arts films such as 'Dòng máu anh hùng', 'Bẫy rồng', and 'Bụi đời Chợ Lớn'.
Trí's passion for martial arts started early, as he comes from a family with a long-standing martial tradition. He trained in various styles, which led him to work as a stuntman for Hollywood TV series before making his way back to Vietnam. He took the initiative to create his own film, 'Dòng máu anh hùng', after researching Vietnamese history and studying Robert McKee's screenwriting books. Trí's breakthrough came with his role in 'Hồn Trương Ba, da hàng thịt', directed by Trinh Hoan and Nguyễn Quang Dũng. Aside from martial arts, Trí excels in basketball, horseback riding, swimming, car racing, shooting, and playing guitar. In 1988, he was part of the U.S. Wushu team, earning a gold medal at the 2nd Panamerican Wushu Championship in Toronto.
Although he found success in cinema, Trí's love for martial arts never faded. In April 2012, he opened a traditional martial arts school in District 7, Ho Chi Minh City. In late April 2017, he released a humorous teaser poster for his upcoming action-comedy film 'Vú em tập sự', which promises thrilling fight scenes and comedic moments that are keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.


2. Vũ Ngọc Đãng
Director Vũ Ngọc Đãng, born in 1974, is one of Vietnam's most beloved filmmakers, known for his popular cinematic works. He is celebrated as a talented scriptwriter and director, having worked on numerous successful TV and film projects.
Vũ Ngọc Đãng's career began with the 2004 film 'Đám cưới chuột', and his next film, 'Những cô gái chân dài', became a significant hit with audiences, winning the Silver Lotus Award at the 14th Vietnam National Film Festival. From then on, the name 'Vũ Ngọc Đãng' became synonymous with box-office success in both film and television. Some of his well-known works include 'Những cô gái chân dài', 'Bỗng dưng muốn khóc', 'Đẹp từng centimet', and 'Hot boy nổi loạn'. Through his successful films, he also helped launch the careers of stars like Thanh Hằng, Tăng Thanh Hà, Hiếu Hiền, Minh Hằng, and La Quốc Hùng. In 2006, his TV drama 'Tuyết nhiệt đới' won the Silver Kite Award, marking a turning point in his artistic approach. He then poured his heart into writing the script for his second TV drama, 'Bỗng dưng muốn khóc'.
Every film he directed brought him great success, with impressive box-office results. In 2012, his film 'Hot boy nổi loạn' was praised for its artistic quality and was selected to compete at the Berlin International Film Festival, as well as winning the Golden Kite Award for Best Feature Film.


3. Hoài An
Actress Hoài An, whose full name is Trần Thị Hoài An, was born on August 11, 1974. She is a well-known TV actress in Southern Vietnam, having made her mark in many popular television dramas such as 'Người đẹp Tây Đô', 'Đất phương Nam', 'Hải Nguyệt', 'Ngã rẽ cuộc đời', 'Gọi giấc mơ về', and 'Câu chuyện pháp đình'.
Hoài An began her acting career in 1995 after completing the second class of the Acting Training Program by the HCMC Cinema Association. With her gentle face and charming dimple, she quickly became known for playing roles of women with tragic, enduring lives. At the peak of her career, she would simultaneously work on 5-6 projects, averaging 15 roles per year. Hoài An didn't shy away from any role—be it a protagonist or antagonist, wealthy or poor—she took what suited her. She would only turn down roles with minimal scenes or those lacking depth. One memorable exception was when she agreed to play a cold-blooded assassin in 'Đặc vụ ở Ma Cao', despite her role having only 50 short scenes. Upon reading the script, she found the character so intriguing that she accepted the offer without hesitation.
Hoài An is known for her professionalism and attention to detail. Over the years, she has maintained a strong stance of not participating in game shows or stage plays, despite numerous invitations. She prefers to carefully select the films and roles that best fit her, investing deeply into perfecting her performances.


4. Kiều Oanh
Actress Kiều Oanh, born Nguyễn Kiều Oanh on October 20, 1974, is a beloved Vietnamese comedian, actress, and cải lương artist. Known for her distinctive Southern Vietnam acting style, she has gained recognition for her witty and meaningful performances in various comedy skits.
Initially trained to be a cải lương artist, she became deeply involved in stage plays, performing in numerous productions at the Saigon Drama Theater, such as 'Lặng lẽ khóc cười', 'Em lấy chồng xứ lạ', 'Vàng ơi là vàng', and 'Bến đục bến trong'. She also appeared in films like 'Đất phương Nam', 'Những nẻo đường phù sa', 'Giã từ dĩ vãng', and 'Chuyện ông thần nước'. As she entered her teens, Kiều Oanh began participating in humorous plays, despite her roots in cải lương. She developed a strong partnership with fellow comedians Tấn Beo and Bảo Chung. In the 2000s, Kiều Oanh joined the Hữu Nghĩa comedy group, gaining widespread popularity for her charming and meaningful comedic sketches.
In 2003, Kiều Oanh moved to the United States to pursue her artistic career, working with the Thúy Nga center. She returned to Vietnam in April 2006 for a live performance to express her gratitude to her domestic fans. In 2007, she married artist Lê Huỳnh, and the couple had a daughter named Whitney Huỳnh, though they later divorced. Kiều Oanh is now married to cải lương artist and actor Hoàng Nhất. Currently, she frequently appears in Vietnamese television game shows such as 'Danh hài đất Việt', 'Hoán đổi', 'Sàn đấu danh hài', 'Cặp đôi hài hước', as well as in numerous successful films.


5. Kinh Quốc
Actor Kinh Quốc, born Lê Trung Sơn on August 8, 1974, is a well-known Vietnamese actor. He has become a familiar face in many TV dramas such as 'Dòng đời', 'Hướng nghiệp', 'Ký túc xá', 'Scandal 2', 'Đất phương Nam', 'Áo cưới thiên đường', and 'Hào quang trở lại'. In 2007, he won the 'Most Favorite Male Actor' award at the HTV Awards.
In the early 2000s, Kinh Quốc made a major impact on the audience with several iconic roles. With his solid acting skills and professional training, he earned a reputation as one of the industry's best. His role as An in 'Dòng đời' marked a pivotal moment in his acting career, while his performance as Tri in 'Hướng nghiệp' catapulted him to fame. The nearly 60-episode series was considered one of the longest TV dramas ever produced by TFS and featured prominent couples played by Huệ Minh - Khương Thịnh, Lê Khánh - Tiết Cương, and Như Phúc - Kinh Quốc. The success of the show solidified Kinh Quốc's status as an A-list television star in Vietnam. In the film industry, he appeared in 'Scandal: Hào quang trở lại' directed by Victor Vũ, before shifting his focus to business due to the instability of an acting career.
To follow his passion for the craft, the actor-turned-director began creating short films and focusing on developing his YouTube channel. He also ventured into producing vlogs on food and travel. His YouTube channel, 'Kinh Quốc Entertainment', which he created himself, has garnered over a million followers.


6. Thái Hòa
Actor Thái Hòa, whose real name is Hồ Thái Hòa, was born on August 10, 1974. He is a renowned actor, screenwriter, and stage director. Thái Hòa has earned the titles of the 'Box Office King' and the 'Million-Dollar Actor,' being the first Vietnamese comedian to secure million-dollar box office revenue for the films he starred in.
Known for his witty and humorous style, Thái Hòa has captured the hearts of audiences with his unique performances. He is not confined to a single type of role but continuously showcases versatility. Before his collaboration with director Charlie Nguyễn on 'Để mai tính,' his portrayal of Chị Hội in the film became one of the most iconic comedic characters in Vietnamese cinema. His flamboyant appearance and animated gestures made his performance a standout, even overshadowing the lead roles. In 2012, Thái Hòa took on a supporting role in 'Cưới ngay kẻo lỡ,' where his performance left a greater impression than the main characters played by Đinh Ngọc Diệp and Johnny Trí Nguyễn. Alongside acting, Thái Hòa is also a stage director and screenwriter, with his most successful works being 'Người vợ ma' and 'Quả tim máu.'
Throughout his career, Thái Hòa has received numerous awards, including the Golden Kite Award for Best Actor in a Feature Film, Mai Vàng Award for Best Stage Director, and the Golden Kite Award for Best Actor in a TV Drama.


7. Lam Trường
Singer Lam Trường, whose real name is Tiêu Lam Trường, was born on October 14, 1974. He is a well-known singer and actor, famously known by his nickname 'Anh Hai.' Lam Trường has become a musical icon for young people, especially the generation of the 90s. His popular songs include 'Giấc mơ thiên đường,' 'Ngày em đến,' and 'Tuyết sơn phi hồ.' Even today, his fans continue to reminisce about his timeless hits.
Lam Trường's musical journey began at a young age, and he rose to fame after winning second place in the 'Thập đại tinh tú' competition. Specializing in contemporary ballad music, every song he releases resonates with audiences. In 1997, Lam Trường released his debut album, 'Baby i love you,' which made a significant impact both domestically and internationally. His career soared as each of his songs was embraced by fans. With his handsome appearance, Lam Trường also appeared in several successful television dramas, including 'Nữ tướng cướp,' 'Ngôi nhà hạnh phúc,' 'Bếp Hát,' and 'Hidden Voice.'
Over his 20+ year music career, Lam Trường has won numerous awards, including the 'Artist of the Year' award, 'Achievement Award,' and 12 consecutive 'Most Popular Singer' awards. He has also represented Vietnam at numerous music festivals across Asia, including in Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Singapore.


8. Trương Minh Quốc Thái
Actor Trương Minh Quốc Thái, born on September 3, 1974, is a veteran Vietnamese actor, especially renowned in Southern Vietnam's film industry. He is a familiar face to television audiences, starring in well-known dramas like 'Người đàn bà yếu đuối' and 'Hương phù sa.'
Trương Minh Quốc Thái is highly regarded for his exceptional acting skills, winning the 'Best Actor in Film & Television' category at the Mai Vàng Awards in both 2002 and 2006. A handsome and talented actor, he has won the hearts of many, though his personal life has seen its fair share of failed relationships. At 42, he remains single, focusing on his career. His notable roles include appearances in films like 'Người đàn bà yếu đuối,' 'Hương phù sa,' 'Trả giá,' 'Sương khói đồng hoàng,' and 'Lửa ấm.' He is currently involved in several exciting new projects, such as 'Vợ quan' and 'Duyên kiếp,' which are expected to be major hits on television.
Having been in the industry for over 25 years, Trương Minh Quốc Thái continues to be fueled by the same passion he had at the start of his career. For him, a great role or a meaningful project still serves as a source of inspiration that makes life more fulfilling.


