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Did you know that it has been 26 years since Mediacorp actress Cynthia Koh took home a Star Award for acting?

In 1999, she won Best Actress for her iconic role as the spunky Hong Dou in historical drama Stepping Out. She famously shaved her head to play the character.

“It has been a very long 26 years!” she exclaims with a laugh when we brought it up.

This year, Cynthia takes home her first Best Supporting actress award for playing a devoted mother caring for her paralysed daughter in Hope Afloat.

It is her sixth nomination in the category.

Before Cynthia’s name was announced, we spotted her shaking her head nervously, even reaching out to hold fellow nominee, Tasha Low’s hand.

Was the 51-year-old bracing herself for disappointment again?

Turns out, yes.

Cynthia admits to 8days.sg she was only giving herself a 50 per cent chance of winning.

But can anyone blame her?

“Many times, I left the Star Awards feeling very disappointed when went home empty-handed. I would then force myself to go to bed just to stop overthinking,” she shares, her voice quivering slightly.

When we ask if it feels like a weight has been lifted off her shoulders after her win, Cynthia goes on to describe career as a “very long and lonely marathon race”.

“It has been tiring, and at times, demoralising. Looking back, I really wonder where I kept finding the strength to keep going at it,” she says.

“At the end of the day, I realised that I must be my own cheerleader, which gave me the strength for my endeavours,” she added.

When we pointed out that many of her colleagues, and of course, her fans, have often named her as someone they hope to see on stage, Cynthia acknowledged their well wishes, but said the real motivation has always come from within.

Relying on yourself is the best foundation to build true character, she muses serenely.

Cynthia also says that she recognises the growth in herself compared to her younger years.

“Back when I won Best Actress, I was only in my 20s. For a very long after time after that, I questioned myself if I won just because I shaved my head. Tonight, I can say I don’t doubt myself so much,” she says.

For now, Cynthia says she is excitedly looking forward to having instant noodles for supper.

Wait, that’s it?

“Okay, maybe my cup noodles and a nice glass of wine,” she laughs.

Cheers to that.

Photos: Mediacorp

Cathc Cynthia's winning moment on mewatch or in the video below: