#SHOWBIZ: Sofia Jane rejects 'diva' label, demands quality scripts in local showbiz

KUALA LUMPUR: Veteran actress Datin Sofia Jane has dismissed talk of her being 'demanding' as unfounded, emphasising that she has always prioritised compelling scripts and strong storytelling.

The 54-year-old artiste clarified that her demands have never been about inflated talent fees.

Instead, she pushes for quality writing that elevates the local entertainment industry.

"To me, the word 'demanding' is far too outdated. I've been asked this exact same question since I was 20 years old. I'm honestly not sure what people actually mean by 'demanding'?" Sofia shared during an interview held ahead of her upcoming debut solo play, Thrown.

"As viewers, actors, and industry insiders, we ought to demand good writing. From my perspective, that is the true meaning of 'demand'—wanting solid writing, quality texts, and exceptional works because I want to be a part of them."

Sofia believes that standardising basic fee structures based on professional roles—similar to other industries—could resolve payment disputes, allowing creatives to focus on raising standard benchmarks.

The Malam Terlarang star stressed that selective script choices directly dictate an actor's longevity.

She advised emerging talents to avoid taking a casual approach to their craft, even if they must accept various roles early in their careers.

"Do something different that hasn't been done by others. That is how producers, directors, or writers will recognise your unique talent. If you do your work carelessly, people will assume you aren't serious," she noted.

On the recent controversies surrounding nominations for the Malaysia Film Festival (FFM)—where she is nominated for Best Supporting Actress—Sofia acknowledged feeling disappointed when exceptional talent is left off the final top five shortlist.

But she views such omissions as a common reality at film festivals worldwide.

"There are plenty of actors who get nominated but don't win, yet that never stops them from continuing to work. Sometimes an actor is simply so good that their talent doesn't require trophy recognition," she said.

Looking ahead, Sofia will take the stage in her first-ever solo theatre performance, Thrown, at The Studio, Jeffrey Cheah Performing Arts Centre (JCPAC).

Directed by Gavin Yap and written by Jodi Gray, the play follows a child psychologist who uncovers old audio recordings from her youth and her patients, gradually blurring the lines of memory.

The show runs from Nov 20 to 22 and Nov 27 to 29, with showtimes at 8.30pm and 3pm.