The character of Ngoc, played by Vân Dung in the series 'That Summer', has become a focal point of discussion among audiences following the airing of episode 18 on September 16. In this episode, Ngoc confronts Khánh, the boyfriend of her daughter Phương, after discovering that Phương has used money intended for a new apartment to lend to him. Ngoc's desperate attempts to keep her daughter away from Khánh include offering him money to end their relationship, a move that deeply upsets Phương when she overhears the conversation.

Viewers have expressed a range of opinions about Ngoc's character, with some labeling her as ungrateful and harsh, especially considering her past financial struggles when Khánh's family helped her. One viewer commented on social media, praising Vân Dung's bravery in taking on such a challenging role, while others empathized with the character's protective instincts, recognizing that many parents might react similarly in real life.

Vân Dung has acknowledged the public's engagement with her character, stating that while she sometimes feels disheartened by those who confuse her with the role, she appreciates the audience's emotional investment. She believes that many mothers can relate to Ngoc's extreme expressions of love, even if they may not always be appropriate.

In a particularly intense scene where Ngoc slaps Phương, Vân Dung revealed that she performed the action multiple times to achieve the right emotional impact, with her co-star, Minh Thu, encouraging her to deliver a genuine performance. Vân Dung praised Minh Thu's dedication and willingness to collaborate to enhance their scenes.

At 51, Vân Dung comes from an artistic family and has a long history in the entertainment industry, transitioning from comedy to more dramatic roles in recent years. She hopes that audiences will recognize her efforts to portray diverse characters, moving beyond her established comedic image.

'That Summer' continues the trend of youth-focused dramas in Vietnam, following previous hits and featuring a mix of emerging and established actors. Vân Dung's son, Long Vũ, also appears in the series, adding a personal touch to her performance.