At 1.9 meters tall, Tyler Ten is hard to overlook, but it's not just his height that draws attention. The 27-year-old Mediacorp actor stole the spotlight at the Emerald Hill press conference held at the Peranakan Museum, not for his towering stature but for his unique fashion choice. While all his fellow cast members opted for formal suits, Ten made a bold statement in a casual cream-colored knit top that showcased his impressive physique.

As he cheerfully greeted attendees while enjoying a plate of mee siam, it was clear that Ten wasn’t just there to look good – he was ready to impress. Discussing his outfit choice, he expressed his desire to stand out in a crowd of formal attire. “It was my idea,” he explained, adding that he often feels restricted in a suit.

Initially perceived as shy, Ten’s demeanor shifted dramatically when prompted about a striking image of him flexing behind bars. “I was focused on contracting 99 percent of my muscles,” he quipped, demonstrating his fit physique much to the surprise of those present—it turns out there’s more to him than first meets the eye.

When it came to preparing for his role in Emerald Hill, Ten drew inspiration from Chinese actor Zhu Yilong, whose performance in the 2022 film Lighting Up The Stars left a significant impression on him. “I watched the movie more than 10 times,” Ten revealed, indicating just how serious he was about capturing the essence of his character. To align with the character's 1950s setting, he underwent a drastic physical transformation, losing 7 to 8 kilograms and switching to a high-protein diet under the guidance of the crew in Malaysia.

“It’s tough staying disciplined when there are Nyonya dishes all around,” he admitted, recalling the struggles of keeping his focus amidst delicious temptations on set. However, he remained determined, knowing that this role could serve as a turning point in his career.

The buzz around Emerald Hill suggests that this is indeed a pivotal moment for Ten. “Many people were fighting for this role, and I needed to prove I was the right choice,” he said. With hopes high for a possible Star Awards nomination, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity, stating, "This is the best time for me to shine.”

Moreover, he certainly feels the pressure, but it fuels his ambition. “Knowing everyone was watching me kept me on my toes. I didn’t give myself room for mistakes.” The comparison to renowned Mediacorp actor Desmond Tan, who skyrocketed to fame post his role in A Song To Remember, serves as motivation for Ten. “Desmond has been a great source of advice, and I hope to reach similar heights," he said, reflecting on the encouragement from one of the biggest stars in the industry.

As anticipation builds for Emerald Hill, we can't help but wonder: Is Tyler Ten on the verge of a breakout performance that could redefine his career? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—this rising star is ready to shine!