Definition
Smile (Burmese: စမိုင်းလ်; born Than Thar Htoo on 22 June 1986) is a Burmese actress, singer, former model, writer, and businesswoman.
Overview
Smile began her public career as a commercial model in 1998, gaining prominence in Myanmar’s fashion and advertising sectors. By age sixteen she transitioned to film, debuting in A Chit The Laypyay (2002) and subsequently appearing in more than fifty Burmese movies, including Kyar Mee Swal Ko Ko Myauk Muu Lae Ma Ma (2002) and Gayat Tway Par Hal (2017). After a hiatus following her relocation to England in 2003 and marriage, she returned to the entertainment industry in 2012, launching a pop‑rock music career and releasing the solo album New Me (2013). In addition to her artistic work, Smile co‑founded VMG Telecoms in 2012 and has developed ventures under the brands Smile Empire and Smile Online Cinema, encompassing digital content, mobile payments, hospitality, and retail.
Etymology/Origin
The name “Smile” is a stage name derived from her Burmese given name, which is presented without a family name in accordance with Burmese naming conventions. She is also known professionally as “Smile Maung,” a variation that incorporates the Burmese honorific “Maung” (used for young men or informally among peers).
Characteristics
- Occupations: Actress, model, singer, writer, entrepreneur.
- Filmography: Over 50 film and video titles, notable works include A Chit The Laypyay (2002), Kyar Mee Swal Ko Ko Myauk Muu Lae Ma Ma (2002), and Gayat Tway Par Hal (2017).
- Music: Pop‑rock vocalist; debut album New Me (2013).
- Business: Co‑founder of VMG Telecoms; owner of hospitality properties such as Simile Hotel (Pyin Oo Lwin) and retail outlet Smile Mart (Yangon).
- Philanthropy & Activism: Founder of PSPC Foundation (California); board member of White Ribbon USA; publicly supported Aung San Suu Kyi’s defense at the International Court of Justice (2019) and participated in anti‑junta protests following the 2021 Myanmar coup.
Related Topics
- Burmese cinema and film industry
- Myanmar popular music (pop‑rock)
- Entrepreneurship in Myanmar’s digital and hospitality sectors
- Political activism and civil society movements in Myanmar (post‑2021 coup)
- Burmese naming conventions and stage‑name usage