The Star Awards 2016 Top 10 Most Popular Female Artistes is a significant one for several of its latest winners. For Joanne Peh and Quan Yi Fong, who both picked up their tenth gongs, it was the very last time they got to participate in the race, as they will finally graduate to All-Time Favourite Artiste status next year.
As they exit the competition, they make way for new blood to dominate the list. After failing to triumph in this category last year, Jayley Woo has finally won her first award not just in this category, but of her whole career. To sweeten the deal, the 24-year-old received her trophy from guest presenter Park Hae Jin, and the well-known Hallyu wave fan could not help but appear flustered on stage, and even asked her “oppa” for a hug.
This year also marks the return of Jesseca Liu to the list after a five-year absence due to her expired contract with Mediacorp, which was renewed last year. After she finished her acceptance speech, the scene sneakily shifted to focus on Jeremy Chan, whom she is rumoured to be dating, but the actress refused to comment when we asked her about it.
In a backstage interview with Toggle, Rebecca Lim admitted that she did not expect to win because of her recent “retiring” controversy that threatened to mar her almost-perfect image. She said that even her friends, family and peers worried for her, but their unwavering support remained and she managed to clinch her fifth Top 10 trophy last night.