SINGAPORE : He's known to be straight forward, sometimes tactless even, so when we found out that former MediaCorp actor Huang Yiliang was invited as a guest on Channel U talk show "CelebriTEA Break 2", we knew this would be a good one. And he did not disappoint.

On the episode which aired Wednesday, Huang opened up about his failed marriage with MediaCorp actress Lin Meijiao and lamented that he had let her down. He attributed their split to their differences in characters and philosophies in life.

"Meijiao is a self-contented person, she doesn't speak much and is much more of a family-oriented person. I, on the other hand, am more ambitious and tend to look for new ventures whenever I'm not filming. Our philosophies in life are very different," said Huang who is making his directorial debut with "Autumn In March" starring model Sheila Sim.

He added that his stubborn nature and refusal to give in only made matters worse.

After their divorce in 1997, Huang tried repeatedly to win back his former wife but his efforts proved futile.

"I am very sorry to my ex-wife and I'm sorry for the things that happened," said a somber Huang.

During the show, Huang was reminded of his controversial acceptance speech at the 2002 Star Awards. When Huang went on stage to collect his Best Supporting Actor trophy, he mocked Lin about not winning any awards despite her years in showbiz.

An embarrassed Huang could only cover his face when the scene was shown.

Calling it the worst moment of his life, Huang explained that it was never his intention to mock Lin. "I wanted to get others to notice Meijiao's efforts and dedication. But I'm not an articulate person and I ended up making matters worse."

These days, Huang not only has a new career to keep him busy, he has a new woman in his life. The couple who have a kid together, have registered their marriage.

Though she is - ironically - very much like Lin, Huang said he has learnt from past experience how to maintain a successful marriage.

- CNA/fa