KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 4 (Bernama) — Often cast as an urban, well-to-do man, model and actor Malek McCrone is keen to step out of his comfort zone and challenge himself by taking on a wider range of characters.
Malek, 32, whose full name is Malek Marcus McCrone, said he did not want to be typecast and hoped to venture into action films as well as socially conscious productions that could inspire audiences.
Citing the film ‘Big World’, which tells the story of a person living with cerebral palsy, he said such productions have their own value as they not only entertain but also convey positive messages to audiences.
“I have never acted in an action film before. I also want to be part of stories that inspire people, rather than projects that are simply designed to go viral or follow trends. I want to tell stories that resonate with people’s everyday lives,” he told reporters after a press conference on the upcoming Islamic Fashion Festival (IFF) Kuala Lumpur 2026 here recently.
Malek said his experience in the television drama series ‘Good Boys Go To Heaven’ has also helped hone his acting skills, thanks to the guidance of acting coach Khairunazwan Rodzy and director Ariff Zulkarnain.
“Being involved in the series opened up more acting opportunities for me and gave me the confidence to continue exploring different characters,” he said.
However, the actor, who also starred in the drama series ‘First Wives: Sisters Before Misters’, admitted that he preferred to take on one project at a time to ensure each character had a distinct identity, including in terms of physical appearance.
“As actors, we have to make an effort to change our physical appearance – whether our hairstyle, body size, moustache or beard – to suit the character. If we act in three dramas simultaneously, all the characters might end up looking the same,” said Malek, who is currently filming the drama series ‘Doa yang Terlindung 2’.
Apart from acting, Malek, who is of mixed Canadian and Malay heritage, is also exploring the field of hosting. He will be co-hosting IFF Kuala Lumpur 2026 with Datin Elaine Daly. The event is scheduled to take place at Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur from Nov 21 to 23.
“I once tried hosting a Hari Raya event, where I had to speak spontaneously and joke around with the guests. It was really difficult. When I watch people like (celebrity) Zizan Razak doing it, I am impressed because it is certainly not easy,” he said.
“So, I think I can manage events that have scripts and protocols as I enjoy watching the news and can use news presenters’ delivery styles as a reference.”
Malek, who tied the knot about a month ago, also said that his wife not only understood the demands of his acting career but has also wholeheartedly accepted his responsibility of caring for his younger sister, who has Down syndrome.
“My wife and sister are like best friends. Every week, they go out for karaoke and shopping. That is what my sister has always wanted – an older sister who can also be her friend,” he said.
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