On the auspicious occasion of Lichun, the traditional Chinese festival marking the beginning of spring, acclaimed actress Nancy Wu has officially announced her departure from TVB, the broadcasting giant where she cultivated a celebrated career spanning many years. The two-time recipient of the prestigious TVB Best Actress award revealed on February 5th that her contract with the station concluded at the close of the previous year. Looking towards a future brimming with fresh challenges and renewed artistic expression, Wu intends to proactively explore and develop opportunities within the burgeoning mainland China market. She also expressed openness to potential future collaborations with her former employer, TVB, should the right projects arise.
Wu, who has captivated audiences with her diverse and compelling performances, shared that the decision to leave was driven by a strong desire for a fresh start in 2026. This new beginning, she explained, will allow her greater agency in selecting projects and collaborators that resonate with her artistic vision and personal growth. "Over the past few years, at different times—because of different reasons and different environmental factors—I’ve had different thoughts," Wu articulated in her social media announcement. "In terms of work, I need new impacts; I also need new impacts for myself. I think you all want to see me do something new too! I feel that going out to collaborate with different people and pushing myself is really important." This sentiment underscores a deep-seated ambition to evolve as an artist and break new ground in her career.
The current landscape of the entertainment industry, Wu noted, necessitates a proactive and adaptable approach. "The current market environment means you have to do anything you can," she stated, hinting at her strategic pivot towards the mainland Chinese market. This move is not without precedent, as she has already sought counsel from her close friend and fellow successful actress, Myolie Wu, who has carved out a significant career in mainland China. However, Nancy Wu clarified that she has no immediate plans to establish her own independent studio. Instead, her immediate focus is on cultivating a deeper understanding of how various professional connections and transitions work, aiming for a more engaged and less passive role in her career development, rather than solely relying on her management to secure opportunities.
Reflecting on her long-standing relationship with TVB, Wu described their parting as amicable. "We have been partners for many years and have ended things pleasantly," she said. She reiterated her willingness to support TVB in the future, stating, "If TVB needs me in the future, I would help, not ruling out any possibility of future collaboration." This statement suggests a mature and professional approach to her career transition, leaving the door open for a return to her roots under different circumstances.
The unwavering support of her husband has been a significant source of confidence for Wu during this pivotal career move. She spoke fondly of his unconditional backing, stating, "He supports me 100%. No matter what I do, he supports me. He also supports this decision, so it’s very solid." This personal endorsement provides her with a strong foundation as she ventures into new professional territories. When questioned about potential family planning, the 44-year-old actress shared that she and her husband are currently relishing their life as a couple. Her primary focus for 2026 will be on her career development, with discussions about starting a family to be addressed at a later stage. This indicates a deliberate prioritization of her professional aspirations at this juncture.
Nancy Wu’s journey with TVB has been marked by significant achievements. Her talent was recognized with the coveted Best Actress award not once, but twice, solidifying her status as one of Hong Kong’s leading actresses. Her roles in popular dramas such as "Ghost Dragon" (鬼同你OT) and "Heart and Greed" (溏心風暴3) garnered widespread critical acclaim and audience adoration. Her ability to portray a wide range of characters, from strong, independent women to deeply emotional individuals, has earned her a loyal fanbase. The decision to leave TVB, therefore, represents a significant shift, not just for the actress, but also for the Hong Kong television industry, which has long relied on her star power.
The move to the mainland Chinese market is a strategic one, driven by the immense growth and evolving opportunities within that sector. Mainland China’s entertainment industry boasts a colossal audience, substantial production budgets, and a diverse range of projects, from historical epics to contemporary dramas and even ventures into film. Many Hong Kong actors have successfully transitioned to the mainland, finding new avenues for their talent and achieving even greater fame and financial success. Myolie Wu, whom Nancy has consulted, is a prime example of this trajectory, having built a robust career with numerous endorsements and leading roles. By seeking to establish herself in this market, Nancy Wu is positioning herself for continued professional growth and broader recognition.
Her stated desire for "new impacts" and "new challenges" suggests a drive to push her artistic boundaries. In Hong Kong, while she has achieved the pinnacle of success, the television landscape has faced its own set of challenges. The mainland market, with its different production styles, storytelling conventions, and vast audience demographics, offers a fertile ground for an actor seeking to reinvent themselves and explore new creative territories. This ambition is indicative of a forward-thinking artist who is not content to rest on her laurels but is actively seeking to evolve and expand her repertoire.
Wu’s proactive approach to her career, as evidenced by her desire to understand work transitions and her intention to actively develop opportunities rather than passively await them, speaks volumes about her entrepreneurial spirit. In an industry that can be unpredictable, taking ownership of one’s career path is crucial. Her decision not to immediately set up a studio might be a pragmatic choice, allowing her to first immerse herself in the mainland market, understand its nuances, and build strategic partnerships before committing to a more permanent infrastructure. This measured approach suggests a well-thought-out plan that balances ambition with practicality.
The supportive role of her husband cannot be overstated. In a profession that often demands significant personal sacrifices and long periods away from home, having a supportive partner is invaluable. His "100% support" provides Nancy with the emotional and psychological security needed to navigate the uncertainties of a career transition and the demands of working in a new market. This aspect of her personal life, while not directly related to her professional endeavors, forms a crucial support system that empowers her to pursue her ambitious goals.
The question of starting a family, while deferred, reflects a common consideration for many women in their 40s. Nancy Wu’s candidness about enjoying her current phase as a couple and prioritizing her career in 2026 is relatable and demonstrates a clear understanding of her personal priorities at this time. It also signals a balanced perspective, where career and personal life are important but are managed sequentially according to her current life stage and aspirations.
Nancy Wu’s departure from TVB marks the end of an era, but more significantly, it heralds the dawn of an exciting new chapter. Her commitment to seeking new challenges, her strategic focus on the mainland Chinese market, and her supportive personal life all point towards a future filled with potential and artistic fulfillment. As she ventures into this new phase, the entertainment world will undoubtedly be watching with keen interest to see how this talented actress continues to shine and redefine her career on a larger stage. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the importance of embracing change, pursuing personal growth, and actively shaping one’s professional destiny. The blend of ambition, pragmatism, and personal support positions her for continued success in the dynamic global entertainment landscape.
