Malaysian Actor Yong Zheng Xi Gains International Spotlight With Role in ‘Bridgerton’
KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysian actor Yong Zheng Xi is drawing widespread attention after appearing in the fourth season of Netflix’s globally popular period drama Bridgerton, with fans in Malaysia celebrating his achievement on the international stage.
The actor, who was born in Miri, Sarawak, portrays the character Lord Barnaby in the eighth episode of the season titled Dance in the Country. His performance has sparked excitement online, particularly among Malaysian audiences proud to see local talent featured in a major global production.
Speaking during an online interview with local media, the 32-year-old actor admitted he was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelming response from Malaysians.
According to Yong, the support from people back home has been deeply meaningful and encouraging.
He said he did not expect such enthusiastic reactions but described the experience as heartwarming.
A Role Earned Through Persistence
Yong revealed that his journey to joining the Bridgerton cast was not immediate.
Before landing the role, he had auditioned for the show twice but was unsuccessful on both occasions.
Although he did not reveal the roles he had previously tried out for, he explained that rejection is common in the acting industry.
He noted that actors often audition for multiple roles without success, but those experiences can still help build relationships with casting directors.
Yong shared a well-known piece of advice in the acting world: “You book the room, not the job.”
This means that a strong audition can leave a lasting impression, even if the actor does not secure that particular role.
Eventually, Yong’s persistence paid off when his third audition led to him being cast as Lord Barnaby.
Experience on a Major International Set
To prepare for filming, Yong studied the script carefully and focused on understanding his character.
He also revisited earlier seasons of Bridgerton to immerse himself in the series’ distinctive tone and style.
The actor praised the production for its impressive set design and detailed costumes, describing the filming environment as both welcoming and supportive.
He said he enjoyed working with several cast members, including Yerin Ha and Luke Thompson.
Yong also shared many scenes with actress Isabella Wei, who plays Posy in the series.
According to him, she was particularly supportive throughout the filming process.
Unexpected Dance Sequences
One element of the show that caught Yong by surprise was the extensive use of dance choreography.
Ballroom scenes are a signature feature of Bridgerton, and Yong admitted he had not expected to perform so much dancing.
Once choreographer Jack Murphy discovered that both Yong and Isabella Wei had dance backgrounds, they were given more choreography than originally planned.
Yong described rehearsals as one of the most enjoyable aspects of filming, with several days spent learning the routines.
A Role That Brings Wider Recognition
Although Yong does not view this role as a single defining moment in his career, he acknowledged that Bridgerton has given him the widest recognition so far.
He explained that his career has grown gradually through various opportunities, including theatre performances in London.
However, the global reach of Bridgerton has significantly expanded his visibility among international audiences.
Looking Ahead
With the series already confirmed for another season, speculation is growing about whether Lord Barnaby will return.
Yong admitted that he does not yet know what lies ahead for the character.
He said the production team has kept future storylines confidential.
Nevertheless, he hopes viewers will get to see more of Lord Barnaby in future instalments of the series.
-wilayah.com.my
