When we met Hossan Leong for the first time for a chat, we had expected him to be someone funny, wacky and somewhat outrageous as he often portrays himself so successfully on stage and on the screen. On the contrary, he came across as a rather down-to-earth person, polite and very respectful of his seniors as one would expect from someone who has passed through the portals of Anglo-Chinese School (ACS). We were not disappointed. In fact, we were rather impressed by his display of humility and the absence of egotistical traits that is now so common with celebrities.

"Celebrity" is a word that Hossan disassociates himself from. “I dislike the word as it comes with many connotations. I’m an actor and that’s my job and my passion. I live my life like any other person”, he explained. He also dodged our request to share his successes and achievements as an actor and comedian, and modestly implied that he is merely “works-in-progress”.

After completing his “O” Levels in 1985, Hossan went on to Anglo-Chinese Junior College (ACJC) but dropped out midway in the final year because he could not cope with the Chinese language. However, things took a turn for the better after leaving ACJC as one break after another led him up the path of his entertainment career. Today, he is a much sought-after actor, standup comedian, host, producer and director, and without doubt the funniest man in Singapore.

Ironically, despite his Chinese language setback, Hossan was appointed the Speak Mandarin Campaign Ambassador 2005/2006. Besides English, he is also fluent in the French language. For his contributions to the promotion of the French language in Singapore, he was recently conferred the Francophone Ambassador Award and named Ambassador for Paris 2012.

We asked Hossan about his school days in ACS and how he ended up as an actor and entertainer, and here’s what he shared with us.

Echo: Can you please tell us a little about your school days in ACS?
Hossan: Life as a student in ACS was fun. I actually don't remember studying! I mugged towards the 'O' Levels but other than that, the time I spent in ACS was great!

Echo: Did you have any aspirations to be an entertainer then?
Hossan: No, none at all. I was too busy trying to fit in piano practice, playing and making friends. Looking back, it was only when I was in ACJC that I started thinking seriously about my future and career.

Echo: Were there any persons that helped shape your life
Hossan: I reckon growing up in a strict Christian family helped shape my life to be what I am today. By the way, my parents named me Hossan, after ‘Hosanna’ which is a Hebrew word to express ‘praise or adoration to God’. My Dad was a big influence on my life. He was a funny person and ever so entertaining and fun at family functions. I guess I learned all about entertaining the crowd from him. And then in church I would be involved in putting musicals together, conducting the choir etc.

Echo: Were there moments when things were not going right for you?
Hossan: I'm an optimist. Whenever things are down or not going right, I'd say a little prayer and then look on the bright side and thank God for the GOOD things I have and that have happened to me. Solve the problems not wallow in them.

Echo: You have appeared in a number of movies. Can you tell us about them?
Hossan: It's very interesting working in film. It's the director's medium where he has complete control over the whole film. I feel that as an actor I contribute to the vision and the director's voice for the film. So being in One Leg Kicking, I Not Stupid and One Last Dance has been a really interesting experience, working with local and American directors.

Echo: In your view, what do you reckon are the attributes for one to be a successful entertainer, comedian and/or actor?
Hossan: A VERY thick skin, some talent and being at the right place at the right time. It is also important to treat everyone with respect, from the director, crew and fellow colleagues to the audience.

Echo: If you were to relive your life all over again, would you pursue the same path you have taken or opt for another?
Hossan: NO WAY! I'll do the same thing all over again! And improve myself.

Echo: What advice would you give our young ACSians who aspire to follow your footsteps?
Hossan: Pursue your passion with everything you've got. If you're into it for the money, then forget it and be a doctor, politician or something else instead. If you want fame, remember it is fleeting and will not last. Do it because you love it