Actor Luong Vi confirmed to VietNamNet reporters that he has been working as a ride-hailing driver since July. Due to the lack of performances and the pressure of making a living, he had to find another job.
Every day, he wakes up between 6-7 AM to start work, sometimes as late as 10-11 AM if he drove late the night before. He drives for 8-12 hours, earning around 200,000 to 500,000 VND.
“The job is fun and offers freedom, but it’s also exhausting. Some days, I drive for an hour under the scorching sun and only earn 30,000 to 40,000 VND,” the young actor shared.
Luong Vi picks up passengers regardless of the weather; he even drives more during heavy rain because the fares are higher. He only returns home when his health is at risk. A few times, while driving in the rain, he felt his face muscles stiffen and feared a stroke, so he turned off the app and went home to rest.
Three months as a ride-hailing driver have given Luong Vi many memorable experiences, both joyful and sad. “It’s only when you drive that you truly understand and empathize with the drivers,” he began his story.
Actor Luong Vi. Photo: FBNV
One evening, he picked up a middle-aged man who bragged about his wealth and lectured him throughout the ride. Luong Vi politely listened. When the man learned that Luong Vi also performs in traditional opera, he said, “Even if you sing and drive for a lifetime, you won’t amount to my son,” which stung Luong Vi.
He also grew accustomed to being pointed at or treated with disdain by service staff and security guards when denied entry to establishments or asked to move his vehicle.
“Initially, I chose ride-hailing for the freedom and the chance to meet people. However, these experiences made me feel that ride-hailing drivers are often looked down upon,” he said.
Amid the hardships, Luong Vi cherishes the kind passengers, well-mannered students, and elderly individuals who struggle with technology and seek help by the roadside.
Luong Vi performs an excerpt from “Máu nhuộm sân chùa” at the “Học viện cải lương” program.
Despite his modest income, he always offers free rides to the elderly and disabled.
Additionally, Luong Vi used to post singing clips or vlogs, and his ride-hailing uniform gained him more attention and shares from viewers.
Family Circumstances After NSƯT Chiêu Hùng’s Passing
Luong Vi’s full name is Nguyen Luong Vi, born in 2000. He graduated from the 18th class of the Traditional Theater Department at the Ho Chi Minh City University of Theater and Cinema.
He is the son of the late NSƯT Chiêu Hùng, who, alongside Ngân Tuấn, Khánh Tuấn, Trọng Nghĩa, and Chí Linh, was part of the legendary “Five Tigers” of traditional opera.
In 2020, Chiêu Hùng passed away at 55 after a heart attack, leaving behind his widow and children.
After his father’s death, Luong Vi became more determined to pursue traditional opera. In 2023, he won first place in the “Ngôi sao miệt vườn” competition, and in 2024, he became the runner-up in “Học viện cải lương.”
The 10X often shares his joy at his father’s altar. Photo: FBNV
He has participated in projects with colleagues, such as the MV “Chờ một người đi” (400,000 views) and “Bên cầu dệt lụa” (200,000 views), but has yet to release his own work.
Artist Ngân Tuấn praised Luong Vi for his stage presence and emotional voice, believing that audiences will remember the late NSƯT Chiêu Hùng when watching him perform.
Currently, Luong Vi lives with his mother, aunt, and sister in Chánh Hưng Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. He and his sister, who works at the airport, are the family’s primary breadwinners.
Luong Vi doesn’t hesitate to drive or sell baozi to support his elderly mother, remembering his father’s advice: “Live honestly, and you’ll always hold your head high.”
Their combined income only covers basic expenses, leaving little room for unexpected costs.
After much persuasion, Luong Vi revealed his worry about their home being subject to relocation. The family of four faces not only the loss of their familiar home but also uncertainty about their future living arrangements.
“We might rent a place or see how things go,” he said.
Touched by his situation, many fans occasionally send him money. Artist Bình Tinh has also offered Luong Vi a spot in the Huỳnh Long Traditional Opera Troupe.
“I truly cherish this opportunity. Joining Huỳnh Long, where my father once shone, is a great honor,” he shared.
The actor added: “Life is stressful, but I stay optimistic and dream of releasing my first solo work.”
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