At ELLE Singapore, we're all about championing women, but this February, we're showing some love to the guys of Singapore. For the hottest men of the moment (literally and figuratively), they're carving their own paths when it comes to life, work, and love. From content creators and music producers to models, chefs, and actors, these are the heartthrobs of the Lion City.
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When you have 'husband' and 'dog father' as part of your Instagram bio, who wouldn't swoon? But of course, there's more to Shawn Thia than just that. For the last decade, the 29-year-old actor has been a familiar face in the Singapore entertainment scene with series such as Fried Rice Paradise, 128 Circle, Sunny Side Up, and Titoudao: Inspired by the True Story of a Wayang Star. Not to mention, him and wife, actress Xenia Tan, are absolute couples goals. Chill and laid-back, Shawn sat down with ELLE Singapore to talk about his turn-offs, admirable traits, and Yakuza encounter.
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What are your most admirable traits or features?
I would say I'm caring to those around me, a problem-solver, and witty.
What are your most attractive traits?
If we're talking about physical traits, it would be my nose, but personality-wise, I'm funny and focused.
What is your most unattractive trait?
I'm an impatient driver.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy playing futsal and games on my PS5.
What do you think women notice first when they meet you?
I would say my face shape and my fragrance—it changes depending on my mood and the occasion.
What's your most complimented body part?
My eyes or nose.
If you had to choose an animal that you are most like, what would it be and why?
Probably a cat 'cause they're mysterious, but quite derpy sometimes.
What's your most successful pickup line?
I would say I don't believe in pick-up lines, but the truth is I simply don't have game. For me, I prefer to be friends with someone first and if our conversations are great, we move on from there.
What is something you look for in an ideal partner?
Someone loving, kind, and encourages me to be a better version of myself like my wife.
What's the most romantic thing that you've ever done?
According to my wife, it was when I went behind her back to seek my in-laws’ permission and blessing to propose to her.
Describe the perfect first date.
Dinner at Summerhill at Clairmont—if the food is good, the date is great—followed by a walk along the Fullerton Hotel area.
What are your three pet peeves?
Inefficiency, non-constructive criticism and comments, and getting a Kopi O Kosong Peng that's just an explosion of sugar on the first sip.
What's your biggest turn-off?
Rudeness definitely—be it a friend or partner. Everyone deserves to be treated with respect.
After the first date, how long do you wait before calling or texting?
I believe the rule of thumb is probably sometime within three days—let's say one and a half to two days. Enough to create a sense of longing without making you look overly desperate.
What is the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
I was travelling by myself in Tokyo and had to travel to the only tattoo-friendly onsen by train, which was an hour away. I'm quite sure I bathed with a couple of former Yakuza members.
Your partner brings you home to meet the parents for the first time. How would you impress them?
I wouldn't try. Ideally, I wouldn't want to impress them, but make them feel comfortable with me around.
What are you most proud of?
I'm grateful to be able to put food on the table every month.
If you had to write a short profile about yourself for a dating app, what would it say?
I’m married so please don’t swipe on me. If you see anyone else with this profile, please report them.
*The interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Photographed by JAYA KHIDIR
Styled by JEFFREY YAN
Producer NAVIN PILLAY
Hairstylist GREGO using Keune Haircosmetics
Make-up Artist WEE MING using NARS
Photographer’s Assistant NOWO KASTURI
Stylist’s Assistant VALECIA LEE