Entertainment

Why is Tang Thanh Ha's comeback after 13 years causing controversy?

Jul 04, 2026

Hanoi [Vietnam], July 4: Returning to the big screen after a 13-year absence, Tang Thanh Ha faced controversy for her portrayal of Empress Nam Phuong in the film 'The Last Empress'.
Tang Thanh Ha has been announced as playing the role of Empress Nam Phuong in the film " The Last Empress " by the duo Bao Nhan and Nam Cito. In her return to showbiz after 13 years, the 8X actress will star alongside Ma Ran Do, who is 11 years younger than her. This news, upon being shared, received considerable attention from the online community. There has been considerable debate surrounding the return of the mother of three after her long absence.
Debate over Tang Thanh Ha's role
Many people expressed their excitement and anticipation for Tang Thanh Ha's comeback. They believe that after a 13-year absence, the actress from the 80s generation still maintains her radiant beauty and appeal to the media. Once called the " screen goddess ," many believe that choosing Tang Thanh Ha for the project " The Last Empress" is understandable. After "Ut Nho" and "Truc the Book Seller," many viewers expect Empress Nam Phuong to be the next impressive role in the career of the 40-year-old star.
One commenter wrote: "If she plays the character after she has given birth, I think it's perfectly fitting. I'm really looking forward to her performance." Another viewer expressed: "A good reputation speaks for itself. Ha is beautiful, elegant, and possesses all the qualities to play Empress Nam Phuong." A netizen wrote: "She exudes elegance and nobility, so I think she would be very suitable for this role." Another user stated: "The 13-year wait for her return was worth it." However, there has been considerable debate surrounding Tang Thanh Ha's return. For the past 13 years, the actress has been largely inactive in showbiz, focusing instead on business and family. Therefore, when the 80s-born star decided to make a comeback , many people couldn't help but discuss her appearance, figure, and suitability for the role of Empress Nam Phuong. Furthermore, many netizens questioned why the film crew had previously held casting calls for the project but ultimately chose Tang Thanh Ha for the lead female role.
One viewer commented on the suitability of Tang Thanh Ha and Ma Ran Do as a couple: "If it's right, they should choose someone of the same age. The large age difference means they won't look like the original." Another viewer expressed: "The issue isn't about age, but Ha's face is beautiful in a sharp way, lacking the benevolent and gentle nature of Empress Nam Phuong ." Another user shared: "Tang Thanh Ha is beautiful and acts well, that's undeniable. But here, I'm just saying her face isn't suitable for the role of Empress Nam Phuong."
Speaking about her return after a long hiatus, Tang Thanh Ha said that she had spent 13 years focusing on business and taking care of her family. Now that everything is stable, the actress wants to return to her passion for film. And the role of Empress Nam Phuong came to her at just the right time.
At the announcement event, Tang Thanh Ha also admitted to feeling pressure returning to acting and taking on a famous role like Empress Nam Phuong. "But I don't want to regret it later. If I continue living with what I've achieved in the past, I will miss out on so many wonderful experiences and emotions ahead," the actress from " Suddenly Wanting to Cry " shared.
Source: Thanh Nein Newspaper