Winki Lai Shines in Legal Drama, Embraces Motherhood and Enduring Friendships
The gripping legal-investigation drama, The Unusual Prosecutors, has captured audience attention with its compelling storylines and strong performances, evidenced by its consistent ratings and positive word-of-mouth since its debut. Central to the show’s “iron triangle” of protagonists is the talented actress Winki Lai, a mother of two who portrays a sharp legal secretary. Lai has swiftly earned the moniker “leggy goddess” for her captivating screen presence and has also become a focal point of an on-screen noona romance with the popular young actor Aska Cheung.
In The Unusual Prosecutors, Lai’s character is an integral part of a team dedicated to seeking justice for victims. As the sole female member, she infuses the role with a potent blend of intellect and feminine allure. “My role is that of a secretary, so my contribution lies in my intellect – asking probing, insightful questions,” Lai explained during a recent interview. “The drama truly embodies the essence of a crime-investigation series, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.”
One particular storyline that resonated with Lai involved a case set against the backdrop of a university campus. This particular narrative arc allowed her to tap into a more youthful persona. “I felt so youthful and cute – naturally, I’d be the university student!” she exclaimed with a laugh. “In one episode, I go back to campus to conduct an investigation and notice a concerning trend: many students are taking something referred to as ‘smart drugs.’ My mission is to uncover why this substance ultimately led to a tragic loss of life. The interconnectedness of the characters in each case significantly heightens the drama and intensifies the investigation.”
Beyond her role as a student, Lai also experienced her first foray into a noona romance, a dynamic where the woman is older than the man, which she found to be a thoroughly enjoyable experience. “Playing a university student was undoubtedly the most memorable aspect, haha! We filmed this drama a few years ago, when I was still a mother of one, so it felt quite natural. Now that I have two children, it would require a bit more courage to revisit such a role. In the series, I encounter Aska on campus, and a romantic storyline unfolds – it was my first time exploring a noona romance.”
Building Bridges with “Little Fresh Meat” Actor Aska Cheung
Off-screen, Lai found her young co-star, Aska Cheung, to be endearingly shy, which prompted her to take the initiative in fostering a more comfortable working relationship. “We didn’t know each other initially, and I kept wondering why he seemed so reserved. I recall one day, after we finished filming on location, I asked him if he could give me a ride so we could grab some takeaway food and eat it back at the office. He was visibly nervous! I reassured him, saying, ‘Don’t be scared; we’re just going to get some food.’ He remained shy throughout the process, but gradually, he opened up, and we found ourselves discussing a wide range of topics. He has since become a very good friend of mine.”
Recognized as one of TVB’s reliable acting talents, Lai, a versatile performer, has appeared in fewer projects in recent years, a decision largely influenced by her personal commitments as a mother. She candidly shared that she had to decline one drama during her pregnancy and another during her postpartum confinement period. “Generally speaking, there have been fewer productions in the industry overall,” she noted. “However, if a suitable project arises, I am rarely one to say no.” Addressing the common observation that she seems to have been less active in filming lately, Winki emphasized her continued desire to take on more diverse and challenging roles.
A Lifelong Sisterhood Forged with M Club Co-Stars
Her life outside of acting has been equally fulfilling. Now a mother of two, Lai is enveloped by a close-knit circle of friends from the cast of M Club, the series that marked her entry into the television industry. Reflecting on her beginnings, she described it as a natural progression. “I was just like anyone else – after graduating, I worked in theatre. Then one day, May Law called me and mentioned that TVB was holding open auditions for a drama titled M Club. Many of my classmates participated. If you were selected, you’d be part of the show. My initial intention was to leave acting after completing that one drama! But after filming, a producer approached me and asked, ‘Do you want to do another one?'”
The series not only set her on her acting trajectory but also gifted her with a group of friends who have become like family. She recently shared a touching anecdote involving her younger son that underscored the depth of these friendships. “It’s love – true, unconditional love. At our most recent gathering, I casually asked if we could also help plan a birthday party for my younger son. I felt I hadn’t been dedicating enough attention to him, and suddenly, I burst into tears. I felt I hadn’t put in as much effort with him as I had with my eldest when he was born. I just started crying. They immediately responded, ‘Are you being silly? Who doesn’t adore him? Let’s do it right away!'”
The outcome was a joyous and flawlessly executed celebration. “They assisted me with absolutely everything,” Lai recounted. “It’s never just about sharing a meal together. They love my children as an extension of their love for me – both my sons are deeply cherished by them. We are completely open with each other, without any pretense. We even reveal our most ‘unglamorous’ sides. It’s an honest connection, and it feels incredibly comforting.”
Having commenced her career with a plethora of stage productions, Winki continues to hold a profound passion for the theatre. Looking ahead, in addition to her television endeavors, she harbors a strong desire to return to the stage. “I still miss the stage terribly, and I firmly believe that in the not-too-distant future, I will definitely return to theatre.”
