Local stars then & now: The cast of The Little Nyonya (2008)

Remember "The Little Nyonya", the captivating Channel 8 drama from 2008 that transported us to the heart of Peranakan culture? 

The story, told through the biographical lens of a Malaccan Peranakan family, unfolds in the 1930s and spans over 70 years, encompassing three families. And boy, it was a whole lot of drama. 

I mean, who could ever forget how Yue Niang (played by Jeanette Aw) was mercilessly caned by the villainous Lin Gui Hua (played by Lin Mei Jiao)? And poor, poor Huang Yu Zhu (played by Joanne Peh) getting raped by Robert Zhang (played by Zen Chong, formerly known as Zzen Chong)? 

This was one of the best dramas ever produced in Mediacorp’s history, and it was lauded by critics and viewers — so much so it became the highest-rated Singaporean drama in 14 years, with the two-hour finale smashing ratings records with a viewership of 33.8 per cent. That’s about 1.67 million viewers.

The series' success resonated at the 2009 Star Awards, where it received nine awards, including Best Drama Serial, Best Actress for Joanne Peh, and Best Supporting Actress for both Ng Hui and Xiang Yun.

The Little Nyonya also became the first Singaporean Chinese drama dubbed in Malay for Suria. In 2016, Netflix acquired the show, further expanding its reach. It even inspired a Chinese remake aired on CCTV in 2020.

Exciting news emerged earlier in 2024 — a spin-off titled Emerald Hill is on the horizon, with Jeanette Aw reprising her iconic role of Yueniang.

Expected to premiere in the first half of 2025, Emerald Hill promises a fresh cast, featuring rising stars and established names, such as Tasha Low, Chantalle Ng, Ferlyn G, Tyler Ten, Star Search 2019 winner Zhang Zetong, Zoe Tay, Jesseca Liu, Shaun Chen, Romeo Tan and Sheila Sim. 

Well, over a decade has passed since we were captivated by the lives of Yue Niang and Ju Xiang. Yet, the characters and actors behind them hold a special place in our hearts.

If you’ve ever wondered what some of your favourite Little Nyonya stars (especially little Yueniang!) look like now, you're in luck. Scroll on to see how they've glowed up over the years. 

Huang Ju Xiang (and adult Yue Niang), played by Jeanette Aw 

Little Yue Niang, played by Christabelle Tan 

Tian Lan, played by Xiang Yun

Lin Gui Hua, played by Lin Mei Jiao 

Yamamoto Yousuke, played by Dai Xiang Yu (Dai Yang Tian)

Charlie Zhang, played by Desmond Sim

Robert Zhang, played by Zzen Zhang

Huang Yuzhu, played by Joanne Peh 

Huang Zhenzhu, played by Eelyn Kok 

Ah Tao, played by Ng Hui

Chen Xi, played by Qi Yuwu

Chen Sheng, played by Pierre Png

Huang Meiyu, played by Apple Hong

Huang Jin Cheng, played by Darren Lim

Xiujuan, played by Cynthia Koh

Xiufeng, played by Pan Lingling

Chen Lao-tai, played by Li Yinzhu

Liu Yi Dao, played by Yao Wenlong

Huang Tianbao, played by Andie Chen

Libby, played by Pamelyn Chee

Jonathan Li Xiuwen, played by Nat Ho

An Qi, played by Felicia Chin

Photo credits: Mediacorp and artiste's own Instagram