HONG KONG — Hong Kong actress and singer Charlene Choi, known to fans as “Ah Sa,” disclosed details of her surprise engagement in Paris during a brand event Wednesday, while also addressing recent online speculation about her marriage and sharing her views on starting a family.
Appearing alongside MIRROR member Jer Lau at the promotional event, Choi wore sunglasses and explained she was experiencing an allergic reaction around her eyes after using an unsuitable skincare product.
The 41-year-old artist, who married personal trainer Elvis Lam in 2023, openly discussed her married life with a smile, playfully “complaining” that her husband rarely uses skincare products yet still maintains good skin. She joked about her self-assessed skill in popping his pimples and giving massages.
For the first time, Choi recounted the romantic proposal that took place during the Lunar New Year holiday. She was traveling in Paris with her husband, close friend Joey Yung, and other companions. “My friends specifically reminded me to dress up before we went to a booked upscale restaurant for dinner, but I thought it was just a casual gathering with friends,” Choi said. “I wore clothes I bought online.”
When the group tried to take a group photo, she refused to take off her long down jacket because of the cold weather. “Then, against the night view of the Eiffel Tower, my husband suddenly took out a ring and proposed with a love declaration,” she recalled. “Witnessed by all my good friends, I was moved to tears. My mascara ran, and I had black tears streaming down my face. It was so ugly!”
Choi admitted she had no prior knowledge of the secret plan coordinated between her husband and her friends, calling the moment a huge surprise. She added she is considering returning to Paris on the anniversary of the proposal to commemorate the occasion.
Regarding recent rumors of a rift in their marriage, Choi said she does not intend to investigate the motives behind the speculation. “Many artists get slandered or have false things written about them online. I’m not the only one,” she stated. “Since we can’t control what netizens say, I just let it go. I don’t pay much attention or look into their mindset. You can’t control whether people write good or bad things. The most important thing is that I am happy.”
She noted that her husband, focused on his athletic career, pays little attention to online commentary and, as a professional athlete, possesses strong mental resilience. However, she acknowledged that he is still adapting to the increased media attention that comes with being married to a celebrity.
Future Plans and Industry Reflection
On the topic of having children, Choi said neither she nor her husband is opposed to becoming parents, but they are letting things take their natural course. She confirmed she would continue working even if she became pregnant. The actress is currently busy filming a new movie, which is expected to wrap up in mid-October.
Choi also expressed sorrow over the recent passing of veteran actor Lau Ming, known for his iconic role as “Grandmother” in the classic film A Chinese Ghost Story. Although she never worked with him, she said his performance left a lasting impression. She reflected on the loss of several senior figures in the entertainment industry this year, calling it a poignant time for the community.
