Before becoming household names on Singapore screens, well-loved comedians Mark Lee, Gurmit Singh, Koh Chieng Mun, and Suhaimi Yusof took on humble part-time jobs that shaped their early lives and gave them a glimpse of the working world.
- Mark Lee sold rambutan as a child with no pay
- Gurmit Singh once slept overnight in a bank as a security helper
- Koh Chieng Mun started teaching piano at age 14
What happened
In a recent episode of the YouTube series Comedian VS, Singaporean celebrities Mark Lee, Gurmit Singh, Koh Chieng Mun, and Suhaimi Yusof gathered to share stories about their very first part-time jobs. These early roles, often taken up while they were still in school, ranged from selling fresh rambutan in HDB estates to teaching piano lessons and helping out at family-run food stalls.
Mark Lee revealed he started helping his father sell rambutan at only five to six years old, often without receiving payment. Meanwhile, Gurmit Singh shared memories of assisting his father as a bank security helper, even sleeping overnight in the bank to keep it secure. Koh Chieng Mun began teaching piano at 14, possessing Grade 8 certification, while Suhaimi worked at a nasi padang stall and later as a vacuum cleaner salesman while awaiting a break into showbiz.
Why it feels good
These stories resonate because they show how early experiences, no matter how humble or challenging, can spark determination and provide valuable life lessons. The comedians’ tales of hard work and family support humanize them beyond their screen personas, offering inspiration to those juggling school, family expectations, and part-time jobs.
Moreover, the humor in their recollections, like making a customer buy 15 bottles of shampoo or refusing to pass exams because of confidence in future stardom, adds warmth and personality to their journeys. It reminds us that early struggles and odd jobs often become treasured stepping stones on the path to success.
What to enjoy or watch next
Fans can catch these charming anecdotes and see their favorite comedians in a more intimate light by watching the full episode of Comedian VS on YouTube. This series invites local performers to share candid stories and engage in light-hearted conversations about their careers and lives.
For those interested in Singaporean entertainment history, revisiting classic TV shows like Phua Chu Kang Pte Ltd, Under One Roof, and Police & Thief offers a chance to appreciate how these stars evolved from their early days. Exploring behind-the-scenes content and interviews can provide more context and laughter connected to their remarkable journeys.