Ngọc Trinh, a well-known figure in Vietnam, is making significant changes in her life and career as she turns 37. Transitioning from a glamorous model to an actress and businesswoman, she is bravely pursuing her happiness and redefining her identity in the entertainment industry.

For years, Ngọc Trinh was primarily recognized for her modeling career and sensual image. However, as she ventured into acting, she faced skepticism about her abilities as a novice actress. Instead of relying solely on her physical appearance, she has consistently challenged herself with diverse roles, embracing criticism as a means to carve out her niche on screen.

Her film career began with "56 Inches" in 2016, which she produced and starred in, drawing inspiration from her own life experiences. This project marked her desire to step beyond the confines of modeling. Although the film did not achieve critical acclaim, it opened new avenues for her career.

In 2019, she starred in "The Wedding Crashers," where she portrayed a more relatable character, showcasing her natural acting skills and adaptability to comedic roles. This period was significant for Ngọc Trinh as she focused on gaining experience rather than expecting immediate breakthroughs from a single film.

Another notable milestone was her role in "Sister Sister" in 2023. Playing Ba Tra, she starred alongside Minh Hằng in a high-budget production that grossed approximately 120 billion VND. This role further solidified her appeal to mainstream audiences and expanded her on-screen image.

Despite the impressive box office figures, Ngọc Trinh’s journey in film cannot be solely measured by revenue. The success at the box office is a collective achievement, while acting requires more than just a famous name. This realization has led her to choose roles that challenge her and encourage personal growth.

In 2025, she took on a role in "Sister-in-Law," which introduced her to the family drama genre, followed by a more demanding character in "The Underworld Beauty Institute" in 2026. In this film, she plays Thanh, a character entangled in eerie mysteries in Da Lat, requiring her to convey complex emotions beyond her physical appearance. Ngọc Trinh has shown a willingness to alter her look for roles, including changing her hairstyle and adjusting her weight.

Although "The Underworld Beauty Institute" garnered around 12.6 billion VND, her choices reflect a serious commitment to her acting career. Alongside her film endeavors, Ngọc Trinh has also shifted her focus to business and livestreaming. After facing various challenges, she now approaches spending more conservatively and values her income opportunities.

She dedicates considerable time to managing her fashion, cosmetics, and personal spa ventures, frequently appearing in large-scale livestream sales. This marks a departure from her previously glamorous image, illustrating her evolution beyond a singular persona in showbiz.

At 37, Ngọc Trinh's notion of happiness is no longer tied to the glitz and glamour that once defined her. Instead, it embodies the satisfaction of working, exploring new challenges, and making autonomous career choices. After years associated with a sensual image and public scrutiny, she is now embarking on a more pragmatic path, where success is measured not just by public attention but by her ability to stand firm in her decisions.

While Ngọc Trinh may not have found the ultimate answer to her career path, her willingness to step out of her comfort zone, restart, and explore new fields is a commendable progression. Her quest for happiness is no longer a race to maintain past glory but a genuine effort to find a path that allows her to feel alive, engaged, and continuously evolving.