Simu Liuis a Canada boy at heart.
Born in Harbin, China, and raised largely in Ontario, theShang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Ringsstaropens up to PEOPLE in the 2023Sexiest Man Aliveissue about holding on to his roots.
“Canada is sexy because it’s inclusive. It really champions diversity, celebrates people’s differences — and has universal health care,” says Liu, 34, of being a “proud” Canadian. “All those things are really sexy!”
Over the last few years the actor, who starredalongside Ryan Gosling and Margot Robbie inBarbie, has leaned into travel and exploration.
Simu Liu.Peter Yang
Peter Yang
Spending extended time in London allowed him to stumble across “gorgeous little neighborhoods” while also embracing the “hustle and bustle” of the city.
Recently, Liu headed to Bangkok with his best friend of 22 years for a long-awaited vacation.
Over the last year Liu has planted roots in Los Angeles, where he purchased a home in late 2021. Adjusting to life in the City of Angels has had its ups and downs, but he’s found a “strong network of friends” who have kept him grounded.
“I had this feeling when I came down for the first time, like, ‘Oh my God, there’s so many like-minded people here. There’s so many dreamers here, so many people trying to make something of themselves, and I want to be a part of that energy,’ " he says. “It’s really infectious.”
While continuing topursue his career goals(Liu is set to drop an E.P. later this month), the star is finding balance as he navigates the industry.
“It’s so important to find the people who just want to play video games with you, to watch movies with you, to call you when you’re feeling down,” he says. “L.A. runs the risk of beingtooabout that hustle, and you just got to make sure you’re taking care of yourself.”
After breaking box office records withShang-Chitwo years ago,Liu found himself experiencing many career firstswhile also learning how to handle his newfound fame.
He’s also found a rock inhis girlfriend Allison Hsu, 27, who works in marketing at Interscope.
“We’ve been tremendously happy,” he says of sharinghis successes with a partner. “I feel challenged and loved and cared for, and I feel championed. I think the best, healthiest relationships are ones where you have each other’s back, and I definitely feel like that’s the case.”
source: people.com
