Charmaine Sheh cites lack of 'energy' in choosing childfree life at 51

Hong Kong actress Charmaine Sheh. Photo from Sheh's Instagram

According to The Standard, Sheh made the remarks during an interview with her close friend and fellow actress Toby Leung on Jan. 2, citing concerns about physical stamina and the difficulty of balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities. Sheh explained that juggling work and raising children would be extremely challenging.

While she said she admires Leung's family life, especially moments when her children run to greet her, Sheh noted that managing both a career and family, as well as dividing time between children and a spouse, would be difficult, according to Yahoo! Life Singapore.

"I often feel that it's quite remarkable for a career woman to balance family life, and I don't think I could manage it," she said.

Sheh said her views have evolved over time. 20 years ago, she said, she might have chosen marriage and children, but watching friends struggle with exhaustion and family pressures changed her outlook.

Now single, Sheh said she values her independence and freedom. She spends more time with her mother, lives in the moment and does not feel compelled to pursue romantic relationships.

Sheh also revealed that she has prepared her will after being reminded of the fragility of life. Recent losses, including the death of her godfather Hui Shiu Hung, prompted her to plan ahead.

She said the decision was a practical one rather than a pessimistic gesture, adding that she wanted to ensure her family would be well taken care of.

A graduate of the International Hotel Management Institute Switzerland, Sheh began her entertainment career after finishing as first runner-up in the 1997 Miss Hong Kong pageant. She rose to prominence through her work with TVB, starring in hit series such as "War and Beauty," "Beyond the Realm of Conscience" and "Forensic Heroes."