Actor Katie Leung, best known for playing Cho Chang in the globally successful ‘Harry Potter’ film series, has opened up about her early experiences with fame.
Leung made her acting debut at the age of 17 in ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’ (2005), portraying Harry Potter’s love interest. Now, two decades into her career in film and television, she says she would not want to return to those early days.
Speaking to Entertainment Tonight, Leung explained that she was highly impressionable at the time and often influenced by others’ opinions. “I was so young at the time and I was so easily influenced by what people would say about me because I didn’t know who I was,” she said.
Leung went on to appear in three more Harry Potter films: ‘Order of the Phoenix’, ‘Half-Blood Prince’ and ‘Deathly Hallows – Part 2’.
Reflecting on her current career, she praised her role in the Regency-era romance series ‘Bridgerton’, saying she approached the work with a healthier focus. “I’m so glad I’m here. I would not want to go back to that time. Not because I had a bad time, but it is really nice when you know who you are, and I’m still figuring that out, but I’m a bit closer,” she added.
The Harry Potter series is now in development for HBO Max. When asked what advice she would give to the actor portraying Cho Chang in the new adaptation, Leung emphasised the importance of authenticity.
“For anybody, at any stage in their life, my advice is to just be themselves, because that is what makes them unique,” she said. “Do not let the noise of other people get to you, because what you have already is a gift. You should try to hold onto that.”
Leung’s reflections highlight the pressures of fame at a young age and the importance of self-awareness and confidence in navigating a career in entertainment.
