An Interview with Darren Lee’s Transformative Rise from ACG Fan to Emcee 2025

January 22, 2025

A Decade of Passion

Sitting down with Darren Lee, you immediately sense the energy and passion that has carried him through over a decade in the Anime, Games, and Cosplay (ACG) community. A journey that began in 2012 as a curious attendee at the Radical Anime Games Expo. “I was just a curious fan looking to have a good time back then,” he recalls.

“I was wondering how people could bring their favorite characters to life through cosplay.” What started as a kid’s curiosity grew into an inspiring role, eventually propelling him into the spotlight as a host, guiding others to discover the magic he once experienced.

It’s a Creative Sanctuary

“This space is where people come to express themselves,” he explains. “Whether it’s through cosplay, performance, or art, it’s a melting pot of ideas and talent.” It wasn’t just about fitting in—it was where Darren discovered his own identity. For Darren, the ACG community is more than just an interest.

His opportunity to give back to this community in a new way came in January 2023, when he debuted as an emcee at Shin Jidai: A New Era, hosted by LOL Cosplay Malaysia at DPulze Shopping Center. “I had hosted events before, but stepping into the ACG scene as a host was completely different,” Darren admits. “It wasn’t just a role; it was a responsibility to connect with people on a deeper level.”

From Malaysia to Singapore: A Cross-Border Dream

Darren’s hosting journey hit a major milestone in August 2023, when he was invited to host Campus Legends x Arc Market at Republic Polytechnic in Singapore. “Finally, my first international gig,” he shares, his voice tinged with awe. Representing Malaysia and the ACG community on an international stage was like, “This is it. My first break.” “Seeing fans from both Malaysia and Singapore come together reminded me how universal this passion is. Crossing the borders—it’s something that connects us all.”

This experience strengthened his belief in the unifying power of ACG culture. It also fueled his desire to excel further, not just as a host but as a voice for the community.

The Lessons Behind the Spotlight

These behind-the-scenes roles allowed Darren to understand critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills in event management. Behind the spotlight of hosting, “People don’t always notice the effort that goes into planning,” he explains. “Coordinating schedules, managing logistics, covering events—it’s exhausting but so rewarding.”

“Being part of a crew gives you a deeper appreciation for the community. You realize how every little detail contributes to creating unforgettable experiences.” For every experience a congoer gets, the amount of work, planning, and execution is tenfold.

Looking Forward

Darren acknowledges that time moves quickly, but his excitement for the future remains strong. “Sure, age might be catching up, but I’m not even close to done,” he says with that kind of grin that makes you believe him instantly. “There’s still so much out there to learn, so many ways to grow.” Listening to him, you can tell he doesn’t see challenges as setbacks—they’re steps forward, chances to refine what he loves doing and to stay connected with the community that’s his driving force.

Advice for Aspiring Creators

When asked what his advice is to aspiring new generations of talents, Darren doesn’t hesitate. “Embrace the journey,” he says, his tone steady but encouraging. “Don’t let fear stop you. Growth only happens when you step outside your comfort zone.” He’s honest about the challenges. “It’s not going to be easy—you’ll face struggles, doubts, and moments where you question yourself. But every hurdle is a step forward, and with dedication and persistence, you’ll discover just how much you’re capable of.”

For Darren, growth is a constant. “We’re always learning,” he reflects. “The more open you are to it, the more you’ll inspire—not just yourself, but the people around you too.”

He shows that he is more than just a host or a part of a community; he’s a living reminder of what the ACG spirit is all about. Every leap of faith, no matter how scary, can lead to something extraordinary—growth, connection, and a future filled with endless possibilities. “You know what to do now…” he smiled.

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Salty Katz Sharky

Hi, I’m Salty Katz Sharky—a proud cosplayer and a girl who believes in the magic of having fun. Because at the heart of it all, cosplay is about joy, creativity, and embracing who you are.

“Cosplay isn’t about perfection—it’s about passion, creativity, and the courage to bring your favorite characters to life. Remember, every stitch, every pose, every step is a celebration of who you are. Keep creating, keep dreaming, and most importantly, keep having fun!”