‘Burning desire’: Hong Kong-born actress Kaja Chan on her rise and motivation

May 30, 2026 - 23:47

London-based actress Kaja Chan, known for her appearances in "Bridgerton" and for sharing the screen with Jeff Goldblum, credits a "burning desire" and a clear sense of purpose for her journey from Hong Kong to the international stage. In a recent interview, Chan described how that "clarity of vision" has been her guiding force since she was a child.

Chan, who was born in Hong Kong, did not grow up in a family with show business connections. Instead, she recalled feeling an early, almost magnetic pull toward performance. She described it as a deep internal knowing rather than a fleeting ambition. That certainty, she explained, helped her navigate the inevitable rejections and uncertainties of a competitive industry.

Her path led her to London, where she has carved out a space in period dramas and high-profile projects. Working alongside actors like Jeff Goldblum, she noted, was a lesson in staying present and trusting the process. For Chan, the motivation is not about fame but about the craft itself. She emphasized that the "burning desire" she felt as a young girl in Hong Kong has only grown stronger, fueling her work and her willingness to take risks. As she continues to build her career, she remains focused on the simple, powerful clarity that started it all.