Who is Charles Wu?
An actor, musician, writer, and (very) amateur woodworker.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
My dad works in pharmaceuticals and my mum was an electrical engineer. No one in my family has ever had the opportunity – nor maybe even the inclination – to be an artist. I feel so fortunate to tell stories and make art in this country. I truly consider it a privilege.
Who inspires you and why?
I’m ceaselessly inspired by my fellow artists, friends, and loved ones – be they in the industry or not. The world can be unrelenting and dark. Anybody that chooses to do good, minimise harm, and pursue their passion is a hero in my book.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
There’s a wonderful passage in King Lear – the Belvoir production I’m rehearsing at the moment – spoken by the blinded Gloucester to her banished son disguised as a beggar. It is an invocation and call-to-action:
Let the superfluous and lust-dieted man
That slaves your ordinance, that will not see
Because he doth not feel, feel your power quickly.
So distribution should undo excess,
And each man have enough.
Oh that the world could be rid of all lust-dieted men and that their excesses are redistributed to all those who have nothing.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
South-west WA in sleepy January. Sun, still water, and driving from winery to winery. Heaven.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
It’s touristy, but so undeniably spectacular – the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly.
What are you currently reading?
I’m re-reading Infinite Jest because I was completely lost the first time.
What are you currently listening to?
Supreme Clientele – Ghostface Killah. LUX – ROSALíA. Parquet Courts. Television. The Isley Brothers.
Happiness is?
Doing what you love and being good to be people.
What does the future hold for you?
I’d love to finish some projects I’ve been scratching away at. And some more (very) amateur woodworking pieces.
Charles can be seen as Cornwall in Belvoir Theatre’s production of The True History of the Life and Death of King Lear & His Three Daughters – which is currently playing in the Upstairs Theatre until 4 January 2026. For more information, visit: www.belvoir.com.au for details.
Image: Charles Wu (supplied)