LayarHijau– Chinese actress Yang Zi has reflected on the impact Born to Be Alive (生命树) had on both her career and personal journey after winning Best Actress at the 31st Magnolia Awards. According to the actress, the drama was far more than just another project—it became one of the most unforgettable experiences of her life.
Shortly after accepting the award, Yang Zi met with reporters while holding her newly won trophy. Asked what the character Bai Ju meant to her, she said both the role and Born to Be Alive had become major milestones in her life.
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“Both Bai Ju and Born to Be Alive are milestones in my life. We spent six months filming on the plateau, in the snow-covered mountains where there was no cell service. The round trip took six hours. At first, I struggled to adapt to the high altitude and the lack of oxygen. But over time, it felt like we left all the noise of the outside world behind and focused entirely on the work. I don’t think I’ll ever have an experience like that again.”
Yang Zi said the demanding production became a defining experience in her career. She also admitted that she has never considered herself a particularly lucky person.
“I’ve always felt there are still many areas where I can improve. I hope audiences can see my growth with every drama I make. I’ve been working hard, step by step, so people can see how I’ve changed.”
She added that this year’s ceremony marked her fourth time attending the Magnolia Awards, but it was the first time she stood on the stage as a winner.
“For the first time, I truly felt recognized as an actress. That recognition is the answer to all the hard work I’ve put in over the years. It makes me feel that my efforts have truly been seen and acknowledged.”
Yang Zi also admitted she was still overwhelmed by the victory. She even kissed the trophy during the media session.
“I’m definitely going to have trouble sleeping tonight. I was so emotional just now. I’m truly grateful and thankful,” she said with a smile.
At the 31st Magnolia Awards ceremony held in Shanghai on June 26, Yang Zi won Best Actress for her performance as Bai Ju in Born to Be Alive. The victory also made her the first actress born in the 1990s to win the prestigious Best Actress award in the history of the Magnolia Awards.
During her acceptance speech, Yang Zi delivered an emotional message and gave special thanks to director Li Xue, who guided her throughout the production.
“Thank you to Director Li Xue, the director I both love and hate. I hated you every single day on set, but from the bottom of my heart, I’m truly grateful because I believe you saved me.”
She also thanked the mountain patrol team, the production crew, her management team, and her parents.
“Mom and Dad, I won this award. Your daughter didn’t let you down.”
Yang Zi also shared a message for everyone pursuing their dreams.
“I want to tell everyone with a dream: don’t worry about what other people think. Stay true to your original aspirations. If you persevere, you’ll reach your dreams.”
She concluded by saying that the trophy was not the finish line of her career.
“This trophy is not the end for me. It’s the starting point for actress Yang Zi.”
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