Among the three actors who played the role of Tang Sanzang in the classic movie "Journey to the West" (1986), Tu Thieu Hoa is the one who left the most regrets for the audience. Possessing a bookish appearance, delicate face and calm temperament, he was affectionately called "The most beautiful Tang Sanzang on screen" by the Chinese public. However, he was also the one who left the film crew early when the work was still unfinished.
For many years, the decision to quit the role of Tang Sanzang has always been considered the biggest turning point in Tu Thieu Hoa's artistic life. According to Chinese media, the actor at that time chose to return to school to continue his training program at Shandong Academy of Arts. In addition, debates related to cat-xe and the working environment are also considered reasons why he did not continue to stick with the film crew.
At the time of making the decision, no one could predict that "Journey to the West" would become a classic work with a lifespan of decades. Therefore, Tu Thieu Hoa's choice at that time was considered quite normal. However, after the film created an unprecedented phenomenon in Chinese television history, everything changed.
In interviews published by Chinese media, Tu Thieu Hoa once expressed regret about the decision of the past. Many sources said that he admitted that he did not fully see the value and influence of the film. Leaving the crew not only made him miss the opportunity to accompany the work of his life but also made the relationship with some colleagues and crew members distant.
What is even more regrettable is that after "Journey to the West", Tu Thieu Hoa did not have any more roles strong enough to surpass the shadow of Tang Sanzang. Although appearing in many films such as "Romance of the Three Kingdoms" or other historical works, the public still remembers him mainly as a high-ranking monk on his way to fetch scriptures.
The biggest paradox in Tu Thieu Hoa's career is that he left the role that made his name, but in the end, he remained attached to that image for the rest of his life. For many years, every time he appeared at giao luu programs, fairs or commercial events, he still often wore a kha sa shirt, singing songs associated with "Journey to the West" to meet the audience.
Perhaps, Xu Shaohua's biggest regret is not the difference in salary or the opportunity to study in the past, but the fact that he left a movie that later became a monument of Chinese cinema too early. Only starring in 8 episodes but being remembered forever for the role of Tang Sanzang, it is both a source of pride and something that makes the actor carry many reflections throughout the remaining journey of his career.
