The Korean-Australian actor received rave reviews for her star turn as a maid with an aristocratic past on the fourth season of Bridgerton. At a time when love stories are decidedly back in fashion on TV, Yerin Ha is at the forefront of a new generation of romantic leads.
What’s one work of art that got you through an important moment in your life?
The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. I was mentally not in the best place and kept having negative thoughts, but reading this book made me slowly shift my perspective. Parts of it were reflecting on how I am viewing a certain situation and knowing that I have the power to view it in either a positive or a negative light, but it’s up to me to make that decision. I also think that’s where I started practicing gratitude and journaling, which has helped me immensely in my career.
What do you want to see more of in your industry? Less of?
I want to see more original work being properly funded. And fewer reboots. We really love bringing back projects that were done 10 to 20 years ago, but I just love films that are new, and even if it’s riskier to make, I think those are the films or projects that stay with me longer.
What keeps you up at night?
If I’m working or shooting a project, probably the scene that I have to do the next day. But if it’s not work-related… the fact that I have no work. But I am working on being comfortable with not knowing what’s next.
What are you looking forward to this year?
I’m really excited to do the play I did last year at the Donmar Warehouse, The Maids, directed by Kip Williams, in New York at St. Ann’s Warehouse this year. I love that city and getting to live there for a month while I’m doing a play is something I imagined for myself but didn’t think would happen so soon.
What’s something people get wrong about you?
Perhaps that people think I’m not as anxious in social settings. It has been a lot of exposure therapy. I don’t particularly enjoy certain settings possibly because of my imposter syndrome, but people have told me that I don’t look anxious when really I’m panicking inside.
When’s the last time you laughed hysterically?
Probably last week. My friend sent me a photo and we just lost it. I also spat out my water and felt like I had a massive ab workout, so I can properly say it was last week.
What would you be doing if you weren’t working in your field?
I think I’d be a pastry chef. I still think it’s incredibly creative, coming up with new flavor profiles and combinations, the design and decoration. Plus I have a sweet tooth, so win-win.
To read more from the 2026 CULT100 honorees, see the full list here.
in your life?
