TVB Celebrity News

TVB popular series Inbound Troubles has entered its final week and still going strong. Yesterday at the outdoor promotional event on the busy street of Tsim Sha Tsui, producer Wong Wai Sing announced they are preparing for a sequel and film edition. Cho Lam revealed there are already companies inviting "Oh Baby" out to perform, but because of the copyright issues, it is unknown whether they can actually launch their own album. The cast including Roger Kwok, Wong Cho Lam, Joey Meng, Ivana Wong, Louis Cheung, Siu Bo, Corinna Chamberlain and Wong Kong Leung took part in the promotion yesterday and created chaos on the street.

When the cast appeared, a young woman screamed hysterically and caught attention for a brief moment. Then the cast stood in a line, hand in hand, and bowed to the audience thanking them for their support. Later, they gave out New Year's tangerines and attracted more than a hundred people fighting to get the gift. At one point, someone in the crowd threw the tangerine back and unfortunately, Joey got the 'head prize' (direct hit) and eventually there was a huge chaos on the street.

The pitiful Joey expressed after getting hit on the head, "I was a little dizzy, it was a hard hit. His throw was so hard, even the juice came out. Luckily, I've learned Kung Fu before, so I'm fine. Just think of it as getting the top 'head' prize." She also pointed out that Louis Cheung, standing next to her, didn't have the strength to protect her: "He didn't have fast enough reaction to catch the tangerine. When we collaborate again in the sequel, I must torment him." Joey expressed if the TV rating reaches 40 points, Roger Kwok will give out red envelopes to the citizens; If it reaches 42 points, she will show off her 42-inch long legs to the citizens, but if its 43 points, Sharon Chan will need to lend a helping 'leg'.

After the cast walked around the street and had their meal at the restaurant, producer Wong Wai Sing suddenly got a phone call from a TVB executive and then immediately announced that has been confirmed, Inbound Troubles will be shooting both a sequel and a film edition of the series. It was a pleasant surprise for everyone and they were all very excited to shoot a sequel.

Wong Cho Lam expressed: "I'm happy because this proves TVB supports us, but then again I'm worried about having to come up with another 20 episode story. I'll have to talk to the scriptwriter. I don't feel as pressured for the film because it's only a few hours. (You're writing the script again, are you afraid the scriptwriter might get upset?) No, we had a pleasant collaboration."

When asked if TVB would limit him on incorporating HK-China contradicting issues into the sequel due to the large number of complaints? Cho Lam said: "TVB did make a suggestion, if the topic is too sensitive, don't do it. In addition, we already filtered once before and this time since it's approved, that means it can continue." Corinna Chamberlain gained recognition from this series and was very thankful of Wong Cho Lam. She said: "He didn't just cast me in the TV series, but also gave me a favorable role, so more people will know who I am." Because she likes singing, Cho Lam also wrote her a song, Dissimilar, which had just released and been quite a hit.

Ivana Wong said this series allows us to see a new light. She is very happy to hear that there will be a sequel and joked she wants a pay raise: "I didn't say I'm going to accept it. I have to take advantage of this opportunity and boost my pay, so I can have a prosperous and 'fat' year. (Will you be able to participate in the sequel and do music?) I hope I'll be able to accommodate them, after all I am just a singer."

Kate Tsui Vomits Seeing Michael Tse Too Much

Kate Tsui is currently busy shooting for TVB new series Sniper Attack 2013, the night before she was able to take some time off with her co-star Michael Tse to attend a New Year's Eve countdown event in Macau. Although the temperature was only a few degrees, fans from Mainland, HK, Malaysia and Australia all made special trips to support them and celebrate New Years with their idols.

For the best performance, Kate did not eat prior to the event and was dressed conservatively. However, she still caught a cold and felt like vomiting. She held it all the way back to HK. She laughed: "Actually I already felt unwell before I went there, that time I was getting cold sweat and felt like I wanted to vomit. When the ferry got back to HK and parked, I held onto a bag and ran out of there. I vomited in the VIP room." Kate joked: "I actually think I vomited because I see him (Michael) too much."


--Oscar Leung New Year's Wish Keep Away from Bad Things

Myolie Wu, Oscar Leung and Nancy Wu attended a large-scale New Years countdown event in Tsim Sha Tsui. Myolie reveals she fell ill due to the chilly weather in the last few days: "My cats at home are all sick, so my New Year wish is for good health. (New romance in the New Year?) Leave it to fate. (Always flying around, accept long distance relationship?) Try not to be too fair, that would be misery."

A few days ago, Kenny Wee filed a lawsuit against Oscar Leung for defamation, he expressed: "My lawyer is handling the case, not convenient for me to comment now. (Are there still locusts going to your house?) Nope, I haven't had time to clean my windows." When speaking of his New Year's wish? He said: "I hope I can stay far away from all bad things, a harmonious society and everyone good health."

Nancy was asked about ex-boyfriend Deep Ng wanting her to treat him a meal for winning the 'Best Supporting Actress' award? Nancy said: "Not yet, but we keep in touch by phone. Thank him so much for congratulating me, I hope he'll keep up the good work in 2013."


-- Eliza Sam Stops the Sweets, Works Out Muscles to be a Fit SDU

Linda Chung, Rebecca Zhu (Morning Zhu), Eliza Sam (Heung Heung) and William So attended Landmark North shopping mall's event Star-Studded Welcoming 2013 in Sheung Shui. Rebecca and Heung Heung were in low-cut dresses playing games with the audience, but Heung Heung appeared a bit unnatural. She later expressed she did take safety measures, but earlier she ate too much back home in Canada. Heung Heung's New Years resolution is to eat less sweets . She's currently shooting a new series, Sniper Attack 2013, where she plays a SDU officer, she said: "I have to keep fit and work out some muscles, so I force myself to go jogging every day. (Compare to Christine Kuo as SDU?) I never thought of comparing, our roles are different."

When speaking of Ruco Chan carrying Linda and running while shooting for an explosion scene earlier? Linda frankly expressed she was a little frightened: "I'm afraid I'm too heavy, but Ruco gave me a sense of security, so I was fine. He said I'm only 90 pounds, lighter than the stunts double, but they are all men." As a workaholic, Linda hopes this year she'll learn to balance between personal life and work.

The MC used Morning Zhu and Kenneth Ma's rumors as a joke, she laughed and said she's used to it: "My colleagues are always joking with me now, 'Morning Zhu, Kenneth isn't here?'. I'm happy to have a new nickname. (Any chance to develop further?) No, we're friends. He's a good guy, very attentive. If we have fate, then see if there is a chance in the future." Asked of her New Years resolution? Morning Zhu wants to forget the bitter and unhappy past, she said: "I hope I can rely on myself to earn money and support myself. (You can find someone to take care of you?) That early? I'm still young. Can't force these things."


-- Tavia Yeung Hopes Everyone Make Lots of Money

TV Queen Tavia Yeung took part in a countdown event, where she performed three songs. She laughed and said several years ago when she had to sing at a shopping mall show, because the music was too soft, she ended up embarrassing herself. However, this time she performed very well, she laughed: "Revenge on past insults!". She expressed in the new year she hopes for a pay raise and shoot Mainland dramas. She said: "Everyone wants a raise, but I'm still a newcomer in Mainland. The most important is to gain more recognition first." When asked if she'll tell boyfriend Him Law to save up money for marriage? She laughed: "I hope everyone can earn lots of money."


-- Kenneth Ma Supports Raymond Lam to Stay in Showbiz

Kenneth Ma and Wayne Lai were at two separate countdown events in Tsuen Wan, he expressed his next series is The Hippocratic Crush II, which won't start until after the Lunar New Year, so he has time and can accept more shows to earn extra income. When speaking of the rumor that Raymond Lam was fussing over his TV King loss and wants to retire? He said: "If Raymond retires, then that's going to be such a waste. He still has lots of room for development." It was rumored Virgina Lok switches to Kenneth and will be heavily promoting him? He laughed: "I really haven't heard of this, but TVB has four studios, lots of people are needed."

Wayne attended the event with his wife and son. When asked about Raymond's retirement from showbiz? He expressed Raymond has it difficult because he's in TV, film and music. He hopes everyone can give him some understanding, but Wayne complained he has it difficult too: "I complain to my wife from time to time that I want to retire too. I hope to take vacation now too, that is my 2013 New Year wish. Initially I had 14 days of break, but TVB told me to apply for leave and a few days was cut out."


-- Koo Ming Wa Hasn't Had Vacation in 14 Years

Koo Ming Wa attended apm's New Years countdown event and revealed he initially had plans to go on vacation with family, but he's too busy with work. He said he hasn't had a vacation in 14 years. He reveals his 80 year old father went to support him at the event. He hopes he'll get to shoot more TV series in the new year.

Last night TVB continued the second night of their annual dinner with 160 artists in attendance including Fala Chen, Linda Chung, Kenneth Ma, Nancy Wu, Shirley Yeung, and Eric Tsang. TVB chairman Norman Leung heavily criticized Ricky Wong and TVB general manager Mark Lee continued on stage: "The 'Gai Hau Wong' (City Block King, referring to Ricky Wong) opened up a joint at the block in TVB City's territory. He then sweet talks young artists into working for him on that block!" He had to say it so loud, everyone on the block could hear him. TVB isn't trying to oppose the issue of new free-to-air TV licenses, but [the government] should not be blindly issuing licenses. The government must clarify the broadcasting policies. This is arguing strongly for what's right and it is completely reasonable. Ricky Wong refuted TVB claiming they have have 10 groups of filming and production staff, and can handle up to 650 hours of drama filming. Norman Leung asked everybody to take a moment and use their brains to think if that is even possible. He said in the audience perspective, he supports free-to-air TV licenses, but if a fishing boat goes out to sea, how many boats are needed to cause an impact on the ecology?

It was rumored the government plans to issue the licenses March 2013. Fala Chen expressed she'll be holding onto her TVB stocks and won't sell, she enjoys being a small shareholder. Kenneth expressed his support on the issue of new licenses: "There will only be improvement when there's competition, but TVB will continue to be the leader!" Nancy reveals she is voting for ex-boyfriend Kenneth for the 'My Favorite TV Male Character' award. Yesterday Kenneth attended another event and expressed he feels normal on the TV King race, "This year there isn't any hot favorites because it's one vote per person! (Raymond has a lot of fans?) He has a lot of fans holding up banners."

Also, it is already confirmed Miriam Yeung will be presenting the TV King award and Deanie Ip will present the TV Queen award at the TVB Anniversary Awards. The other guests includes Eric Tsang, Sandra Ng, Ng Mang Tat and the ill Cheung Tat Ming.

Yesterday TVB held their 45th Anniversary Lighting Ceremony in Tseung Kwan O. TVB utilized over 100 of their artists in this event including, Wayne Lai, Raymond Lam, Moses Chan, Damien Lau, Michelle Yim, Idy Chan, Aimee Chan, Tavia Yeung, Kenneth Ma, Kate Tsui, Rebecca Zhu and many more. This is the first year Norman Leung led the lighting ceremony as the chairman. Norman was accompanied by this year's Miss HK Carat Cheung and second runner-up Jacqueline Wong to do the lighting ceremony.

The Lamma Island ferry tragic accident had stunned the entire city, everyone is in grief. Yesterday TVB boss Chan Kwok Keung led nearly 70 administrative staff along with the 100 TVB artists for a 3 minute moment of silence to respect those who had died in the accident. TVB Deputy of Foreign Affairs, Tsang Sing Ming, expressed the TVB logo on all of their channels turned black to mourn the dead.

 
Tavia and Damien had a 'lip biting' kiss scene

The cast of TVB anniversary series The Confidant and Silver Spoon, Sterling Shackles appeared dressed in their costumes. When they were taking the big group picture, they all stood in the front rows. Clips from the series were also shown. There were several intense kiss and bed scenes. In The Confidant, Wayne and Nancy Wu had a bed scene, while Oscar Leung had two girls in his bed scene. Tavia Yeung and Damien Lau are a pair in Silver Spoon, and in the clip an intense kiss scene involving lip biting was seen from the two. During the interview, Tavia revealed the good parts happens later in the series. As she does not know how to borrow camera angles to do the scene, she was worried she may have made Damien's lip swell up from her bite. She also exposed that Damien had kiss scenes with many other women.

Also, regarding Tavia and Him Law's 'car incident' earlier, they requested an apology from [Apple Daily]. Tavia reveals her lawyer already sent a demand letter to them. When asked if she requested for any compensation or a public apology from them? She said: "My lawyer will handle it, actually I haven't discussed the details with them yet. I have been busy with my work, my lawyer will handle it all." TVB had also sent a lawyer's letter requesting an apology to Tavia and Him. In addition, for the future, the five [Apple Daily] reporters are strictly prohibited to enter TVB City.

Moses kicks the sedan chair door to 'marry' Aimee

Moses and Aimee appeared as a couple team representing The Last Steep Ascent. They did a skit on stage, where Moses kicked the sedan chair door, which suggests them borrowing their relationship to promote the series. MC Dodo Cheng, asked if they'll be getting married soon? Aimee was extremely embarrassed. Moses later said: "Just trying to boost the atmosphere, the full cast isn't here, so we're trying our best to promote." When asked if they want to get awards as a couple? Aimee said let nature take its course, she won't think too much about it.

Raymond confident to win 'Most Popular Male Singer' and 'Best Actor' Awards

Raymond appeared dressed like prince charming in white, and obviously was favored by TVB as he led the singing and dancing part of the show. Raymond explained: "I'm leading because I have to change into my Highs and Lows costume after, I found out on short notice that I had to dance." It was said there is a large chance that he'll get both the 'Most Popular Male Singer' and 'Best Actor' awards this year. Raymond expressed he has confidence to get those awards, "I'm very happy that Highs and Lows is well-received, but I also hope the TVB dispute with Big 5 ends. If I really do win the award, then it would be a lot more positive and not like two years ago, where there were so many criticisms."

Wayne a lucky winner for the second time after 15 years

As for 'TV King' Wayne Lai, he was one of the lucky winners at the lighting ceremony last night, this is his second time winning the raffle, the last time was 15 years ago. When asked if he had confidence to become TV King again this year? He said: "50/50. I personally love the series (The Confidant)." As for Michelle Yim, she said: "I don't mind if Wayne and I win together." Regarding the bed scene with Nancy, Wayne said: "I'm an eunuch in the series, there was only the 'seven emotions' and none of the 'six sensory pleasures'.

TVB series Divas In Distress (巴不得媽媽) ended on Sunday with high ratings peaking at 36 points. Aside from the Koo Ming Wa gaining recognition from his role as 'So Gay', rising star Mandy Wong's role 'Kwai Yee Hei' and Eliza Sam 'Princess Heung Heung' has also been big hits. Netizens support Mandy for the Best Supporting Actress award this year. Since the "巴不得" franchise has been so well-received [previous one was A Chip off the Old Block (巴不得爸爸)], it was rumored TVB plans to produce a combination of the two series, No Wonder Father Mother (怪不得爸媽) in May 2013 with the same cast from both series. However, it was understood producer Poon Ka Tak will be working on The Hippocratic Crush II for 4 months next year, so the rumored series probably won't happen in May.

As Netizens are supporting Mandy to get the Best Supporting Actress award this year, she happily expressed: "I really want to get the 'Most Improved Award' too. I'm not greedy, but if I get nominated for Best Supporting, that is already good enough. I had 4 series this year and this had been the best role. There were a lot of scenes from the inner heart. (Who is the Best Supporting Actress in your heart?) The mute-deaf girl, Nancy Wu, in Gloves Come Off because the role is really hard to portray. Also, I have always admired her acting. There is also Aimee Chan from The Last Steep Ascent, she is pretty good as well. (Your strongest opponents?) Not like that, I'm taking it slowly."

Regarding Him Law, Mandy expressed their on-screen pairing has been very well-received in the public, she said: "More opportunities to earn extra income. There are companies inviting us for work, and there are also jobs with Oscar Leung." In regards to Him Law's earlier 'car incident' with Tavia Yeung, did she comfort him? She said: "I bumped into him in the studio before, he said not even one SMS from me, but friends are in the heart. Silence is already support, just one eye contact and pat on the shoulder is enough."

As for Chin Kar Lok, he joked the producer was brave to have casted him as the male lead. Besides praising Koo Ming Wa's outstanding acting skills, Kar Lok also thought Mimi Chu and King Sir's romance was touching.

Since 1998, TVB was shooting their official calendars annually, but in 2010 it was put on hiatus because Mona Fong was being "stingy". It has already been two years since TVB stopped making a calendar, but this year, new boss Chan Kwok Keung revives the TVB Calendar for 2013. Last week, heavily promoted FaDans and Siu Sangs were all appointed to begin the photo shoot. In January there will be hot on-screen couple Bosco Wong and Linda Chung from Witness Insecurity, along with Raymond Lam, Kate Tsui and Aimee Chan. It was understood, the five of them will be dress up glamorously to match the New Year's party atmosphere. Bosco, Linda and Kate had the most fate as this is their third time together on the same month. In 2009, they were the stars on the month of January as well. This will also be Linda and Raymond's third year as January stars (2008, 2009 and 2013). In February, the month of Lunar New Years, there will be Michael Miu, Roger Kwok, Michael Tse, Tavia Yeung and Fala Chen. [Ron revealed, he already did the photo shoot with Him Law, Kenneth Ma, Vincent Wong, Edwin Siu, Jason Chan and Chris Lai. They will be on the month of April.] [Myolie will be on the calender with Moses Chan and Wayne Lai, not sure which month yet.]

Bosco Wong and Linda Chung were a popular couple in the series Witness Insecurity, and are arranged to take the lead to be on the first month of the year, January. Linda said: "Since my debut in the industry, I have to thank TVB for giving me so many opportunities. I don't think there is any one particular month that is emphasized more. In fact, each and every month is equally important. I'm already happy to be part of it. I never thought of which month I should be on." Following Raymond Lam, Linda and Bosco had recently became a popular on-screen couple, she happily said: "We aren't a couple in real life. For this pairing to be so well-received by audience is rare, I'm very lucky. I've collaborated with Raymond many times before, and now with Bosco, there is a refreshing feeling. I hope in the new year, there will be another chance for Bosco and I to be a couple again."

Bosco is also a heavily promoted artist by TVB, he modestly said: "I don't have this feeling, everyone is just as important. Of course I'm happy to be part of the calendar." As for being on the month of January with Linda, is it because of Witness Insecurity? He said: "I think so because there was such positive reactions before and audience liked the pairing. (Do you hope to collaborate with Linda again?) Good!"

Moving on to February, the Lunar New Year month, it is the month most important to Chinese people. TVB arranged Michael Miu, Roger, Michael Tse, Tavia and Fala to be the stars of this month. The background is going to filled with the red theme color. As TVB said the photo shoot is going to be low-key, when Micheal Tse saw reporters, he mischievously tried to cover his face. Reporters later contacted Michael Miu, who was dressed in a suit and bow tie. He joked and said its a disadvantage being on February: "There's only 28 days in February, two days less than all the other months. (TVB stopped making calendars two years ago?) I don't remember. It's a good thing with the new boss."

As for Roger, he joked: "It's been two years since there's been a TVB calender, I couldn't eat or sleep in the last two years! TVB calenders are very representative. Each year, the photos are very beautiful and taken seriously. Of course it's best to keep the tradition going! The happiest is there is another platform for artists to promote. Haha!"

TVB series Divas In Distress mainly focuses on Liza Wang and Gigi Wong's 30 years of competition, but after the series began broadcasting, the two Big Sisters' limelight were completely stolen by the newcomers and green leaf artists, such as 'New Elegant Goddess' Eliza Sam, 'So Gay' Koo Ming Wa, the young couple Him Law and Mandy Wong and even green leaf artists Mimi Chu and King Sir.

In last night's episode (ep14), Eliza had a scene where she was trying to gather news at the beach in her bathing suit. Once she got into the water, she looked very attractive and caught a lot of attention. She's getting more and more popular as Netizens praised that she's very hot. However, there was another group that criticized her immature and stiff acting, she still has a lot to improve on. Another popular scene happened near the end of the episode, where Mimi Chu and King Sir met again after 10 years. The two suddenly started speaking Mandarin while Teresa Cheung's Undying Love (情義兩心堅) played in the background. This combination created a comedic scene. Netizens greatly complimented how great the scene was, very funny and they even joked following Mimi and Eliza's earlier argument in English, Mimi and King Sir's meeting in Mandarin, the next languages to appear in the series should be Korean and Japanese.

Experienced actor Koo Ming Wa plays So Gay, he easily grasp the comedic feel. He had a very touching mother-son scene earlier, which got him more than 50,000 supporters on Facebook to get "Best Supporting Actor" and "Most Improved Actor" awards this year.

Him Law and Mandy Wong play a couple in this series. With all the twists and turns in their relationship, Netizens were getting very anxious as they watched. In episode 14, the two finally got back together against all odds. Netizens praised that they are a very sweet couple.

The government is about to issue new free-to-air TV licenses to three television stations, putting TVB under serious attack. Ricky Wong, the 'CityTelecom Devil' steps over to the television world and indirectly bashes TVB for producing garbage and have no sincerity. Yesterday the CityTelecom Devil invited 140 artists including Felix Wong and his daughter Adrian Wong, Maggie Cheung, Catherine Chau and Kelvin Kwan to take part in CityTelecom (CTI) 20th Anniversary celebration party. On stage, Ricky continued indirectly bashing TVB for not only producing shows that are garbage, but also shows no respect for their employees. Ricky said: "I really want to know what they are thinking. Respect is the most important in this industry. You have to understand how to respect everyone, don't give them garbage. The government should respect the television stations too and issue those licenses soon!"

Following his comment, Ricky led the large group of artists, producers and scriptwriters on a 'swear-in ceremony', where they all used water guns to spray at a television set which resembled TVB's mascot TVBuddy. It looks like CTI is 'opening fire' on TVB, Ricky said: "The water guns represent sufficient financial resources and strength, we will build a new world. We won't be like some TV stations, producing such programmes with no creativity." He also expressed his current productions are not 'serving up to the same old HK dramas', he boasted his productions are 'original' and the American TV series is their goal.


When speaking of TVB newcomer Jenny Lau, getting abused on the set by director Cheung Wing Ho? Ricky said: "If this type of situation happened at my company, I would be very upset because this violates our philosophy in management. Also, there will not be any members of the 'royal family' in CTI!" (*TN: He's referring to relatives of the executives b/c it was rumored Director Cheung was Catherine Tsang's relative.)

At the party, the hot topic was, who is going to be CTI's 'First Sister'. On stage, Felix Wong asked if Maggie Cheung is getting ready to have children? Maggie answered she's preparing for all aspects in life. She laughed: "I've already prepared for marriage and to have children 20 something years ago, but now I don't know if I can still have babies. My friends suggested I 'save eggs' (cryogenic storage of the ova), then I can still have babies later. I'm still thinking about it!"

Maggie's TVB series The Last Steep of Ascent is premiering next week. A photo of her as an old lady was released, but Maggie indirectly criticized that TVB's makeup doesn't work: "For that makeup to look like an old lady, I couldn't sleep for two straight nights. I hoped to be able to produce the effect, but unfortunately I wasn't too satisfied with the makeup. It turns out, just relying on glue doesn't work very well!" When Maggie was shooting this series, she promised producer Lee Tim Shing she would help with the promotions later, but TVB hasn't contacted her yet in regards to the series promotions.

In regards to Director Cheung Wing Ho's abusive behavior, Felix frankly expressed: "I knew Director Cheung back when he was still a PA. (Have you seen him scold people?) I saw him scold Charmaine Sheh, but she had high EQ and is very strong." Felix said if the director pushes the actress to the wall, just to show her how to do the scene, then that is just too over.

TVB and ATV jointly held a press conference yesterday to announce the broadcast arrangements of the 2012 London Summer Olympics. The two TV stations announced the unprecedented use of the same live broadcast room to report the Olympics opening ceremony. When the time comes, TVB and ATV hosts will 'sit together' to provide coverage on the Olympic games.

Yesterday Eric Tsang, Nat Chan, Kate Tsui, Shirley Yeung, Rebecca Zhu and 30 other artists took part in the press conference to boost the atmosphere and to carry out a 'demonstration' against iCable, who has won the exclusive broadcast rights of the Olympics. Eric laughed and said he received a secret order to help iCable, but unfortunately he has to stay with TVB. Eric is happy that the Olympic broadcast issue has been resolved because the Olympics is a grand event after all and every individual should be able to enjoy it.

Last year, ATV and TVB had a verbal war due to the TV rating miscalculations, but this time they suddenly became friends again, and announced that ATV artists will be going into TVB City to take part in a special program. TVB assistant GM (Au Wai Lam) expressed on stage thanking iCable for investing 120 million HKD to buy the broadcast rights for the Olympic games. "This time, the collaboration between ATV and TVB reflects the Olympic spirit, it's a triple winner. Thank you iCable and ATV. Together (ATV/TVB) we have a hundred years of history, our broadcast of the Olympics will definitely be successful!" Then Mr. Au joked: "In fact, we should let ATV come up and talk first. Firstly, that is being polite and secondly the location is called Tai Po Civic Centre, ATV is located in Tai Po, so it's their home ground!" ATV's VP (Kwong Hoi Ying) also expressed TVB Pearl and ATV's International channel will make up the Olympics channel. Each day, there will be 10 hours of coverage on the Olympics.

Kate Tsui and Shirley Yeung hopes to go to London. Shirley expressed: "I had the experience of doing interviews in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. (Who's going to look after your daughter?) My mom and worker can help!"

After 9 years since Triumph in the Skies, the sequel Triumph in the Skies II is finally starting. Yesterday Francis Ng, Chilam Cheung, Myolie Wu, Fala Chen, Ron Ng, Kenneth Ma, Rebecca Zhu, Elena Kong and the rest of the cast attended the press conference.

Back then, there were rumors that Francis Ng was displeased with Myolie, but yesterday they chatted happily. Francis even teased that Myolie looks fatter than before. He also said to Ron: "You came early!" indirectly criticizing that he used to be late to work. Ron expressed: "Francis and I still have a brotherly relationship, but I'm no longer the young man 10 years ago, our relationship evolved into a friendship and we get along more comfortably."

Francis hasn't been in a TVB series for many years, he smiled and said: "I'm getting a huge raise." He also denied the rumor that he was delaying TITS2 from starting. It was said TVB is relying on him to save the lack of Siu Sangs? Francis expressed: "Wah! I have a lot of Siu Sangs behind me!" He is not worried about working with newcomers, but he fears he may break his promise and come late to work. Francis exposed back when he was shooting TITS, he had a naughty idea to get out of work. Because shooting was too exhausting, he and the others played 'rock paper scissors' to see who would have to pretend to be sick, so they can get a day off from work. At the time, Myolie was still a newcomer, so she didn't participate and had to get to work early.

Chilam sets the next 6 months aside to shoot TITS2 and has turned down several opportunities to shoot in Mainland, losing quite a bit of money. He frankly expressed he accepted this series to return a favor, because back then, executive Tommy Leung, casted him in Cold Blood Warm Heart and got him a lot more job opportunities. This time, he's playing a senior pilot and plans to use clothing from his own personal wardrobe, which is worth about 6 figures. When asked if he's paying TVB, instead of TVB paying him? Chilam laughed: "Because of Tommy, doing it for the audience, no choice, I'm just too good friends with Tommy."

Myolie plays two roles in the series. She exposed Zoe will only appear in the first two episodes and then she dies. Her other role is a tomboy, who works in aircraft maintenance. The producer asked her to cut her hair short for the role, but Myolie is reluctant to give up her current haircut, but for the sake of work, she will accept it.

In the series Fala gets into a love triangle with Francis and Chilam, but she doesn't know who she'll end up with yet. Fala said her development with Francis starts off as a bickering pair, while Chilam is the charming pilot who has a romantic storyline with her. She's unsure if there are any kiss scenes, she laughed: "Perhaps when we get to France, in the romantic atmosphere, we'll go for a light kiss. I'm not too worried since there's a television scale."

Kenneth Ma develops a 'sister-brother love' with Elena Kong. He expressed in reality he does not mind this type of relationship, women does not necessarily need men to take care of her, it could be vice versa. He also said he can accept a girlfriend 20 years older than him too, but he never been in such a relationship before.

TITS2's blessing ceremony is scheduled to take place on July 24th and filming officially starts on July 26th. Filming will go on for 6 months, and filming locations will be in London, Paris, Hainan and Taiwan.

Yesterday 329 TVB artists gathered together for the annual group photo. In the past at the TVB Anniversary Lighting Ceremony, the standing position of the artists represents their current status. Last year, former chairman Sir Run Run led over 120 artists for the group photo, but this year, with a new chairman and boss, things are a little different.

TVB boss Chan Kwok Keung, executive chariman Norman Leung and the 329 artists took a large group photo together for the summer promotions (Amazing Summer) and for the cover on the 2013 TVB calendar. This year, the theme colors were red, green and blue, so the artists were told to dress in any of the three colors. Most of the first line Siu Sang and FaDans attended including Moses Chan, Myolie Wu, Fala Chen, Wayne Lai, Michael Tse, Raymond Lam, Linda Chung, Kate Tsui, Kenneth Ma, Ron Ng, Aimee Chan, Jason Chan, Roger Kwok, Ruco Chan, Selena Li, Kristal Tin, Natalie Tong, Mandy Wong, Nancy Wu, Shirley Yeung, Liza Wang, Carol Cheng, Nancy Sit, Eric Tsang, Nat Chan, Susanna Kwan and the former ATV artists Joey Meng and Alice Chan, etc. Some artists were unable to attend because they are either busy shooting series or working in Mainland, like Bosco Wong, Kevin Cheng, Tavia Yeung and Sharon Chan,etc.

Former ATV artists, Joey Meng and Alice Chan were placed on the second and third rows. The two former 'ATV Big Sisters' meets again, Joey said: "It's a magnificent feeling, seeing so many colleagues at all at once. (Next time stand closer to the front row?) Let TVB arrange it, don't think too much. It's best to be stable." It was rumored Alice is getting neglected by TVB and only gets to stand in the third row, but she already felt satisfied and does not agree that she's being neglected.

Myolie Wu promoted to TVB's Big Sister?

Since past TVB FaDans Jessica Hsuan and Charmaine Sheh left, Myolie gets to stand near the middle of the front row, implying her Big Sister status. The previous second line artists, Selena Li, King Kong, Ruco Chan, Jason Chan and Alfred Hui were all moved to the front row. By this, we can see TVB is honestly lacking Siu Sang and FaDans.

When asked about her Big Sister status? Myolie laughed and said: "As long as I get to stand somewhere." Then she sucked up to TVB: "This is called unity. I'm very happy today because we get paid and get a lucky red envelope. These events are good, very cohesive." Myolie continued and expressed Liza Wang and Carol Cheng are the true Big Sisters. As for Selena, who has been successfully promoted, she expressed she's thankful of TVB giving her the opportunities: "Let us, younger generations, stand in the front to show off our outfits. I'm very pleased to be able to stand in the first row, very difficult to stand there! (Stabled?) Hope so." She said her next goal is to get the Best Actress award.

Leung Ka Kei & Priscilla Wong huge jump to the 2nd row

Another focus at the event is iCable executive Sandy Yu's two favorites Leung Ka Kei and Priscilla Wong. Although the two are inexperience and aren't that well-known, they still got to stand in the second row, which clearly is better than long time TVB artists Grace Wong, Vivien Yeo and Jessie Shum, who were standing in the 6th row.

TVB Deputy Director of Foreign Affairs (Tsang Sing Ming) expressed new show Fun Three 1/2 Weeks is a grand production in the Amazing Summer project. A large group of artists recorded for the TVB Anniversary version with four skits. The group photo will also be used for the cover of 2013's TVB calendar.

Raymond Lam and Kenneth Ma's time travel TVB series Three Kingdoms RPG premiered on Monday. The premiere averaged at 30 points, peaking at 34 points with about 2.18 million viewers. So far, Three Kingdoms RPG is the series with the highest rated premiere in the first half year.

In the series, Kenneth plays a gamer 'Win Sun', who accidentally goes into a time machine during a storm and travels back to the Three Kingdoms period and meets his idol ChuGot Leung played by Raymond Lam. 38 year old Kenneth's portrayal of the impulsive and skittish young gamer is pretty qualified, but Netizens thought he's too old for the role and isn't suitable to play this role. In the series, Kenneth had several lines in which he uses profanity, like when he mentions the 'HK Guy 18 Forms'. Yesterday the Broadcasting Authority receives 16 complaints on the use of profanity and the change in the cast from the sales presentation.

Mainland's big production Three Kingdoms (三國) is currently broadcasting on Jade HD channel as well, some Netizens compared that with TVB's version, and said Three Kingdoms RPG's special effects were too elementary. The war scenes "didn't even have a few horses around" and the dinosaur scene was ridiculously fake. It was reported because during filming producer Lau Kar Ho resigned and coincided with the part-time employee strike, so TVB had to cut down on the resources. A Netizens teased the 11 year old A Step into the Past had better special effects than Three Kingdoms RPG.

Producer Lau Kar Ho responds to the criticisms

Producer Lau Kar Ho was very pleased by the high premiere ratings. He knows there will be a celebration soon, and although he has already left TVB, he still cares about the series. As for fans displeased by Kenneth replacing Ron's role. Lau Kar Ho explained: "Differences in the sales presentation and the actual series is nothing unusual. The sales presentation was done by another producer. When I started Three Kingdoms RPG, I already said I wanted to use the original cast of The Mysteries of Love." When speaking of the criticisms that Kenneth is too old for the role? Lau Kar Ho said: "Adjustments were already made in the plot, describing that Kenneth is actually not that young." As for the poor special effects, Lau Kar Ho explained Three Kingdoms RPG is rather on the silly and comedic side, which differs from the more serious Mainland version of Three Kingdoms (三國).

Him Law, Joe Ma, Mandy Wong, JJ Jia and the other cast members of TVB new series Tiger Cubs participated in the Sha Tin Dragon Boat race. Him, Joe and the TVB dragon boat team came in 6th place.

The built Him and Joe were dressed in tank tops showing off their muscles, but the two refused to show their nipples, Joe laughed: "Not sure why this top is so high neck, leave the stripping for the series promotion later." Joe expressed he participated in a dragon boat race representing a Mainland TV station, but lost. Asked if he'll strip if he wins this time? He said: "If we win, we'll push all the girls in the water!" As for Him, he laughed as long as he doesn't come in last place. Asked if he'll strip to boost the atmosphere? He laughed: "Let's see if the others let me take their clothes off, I won't be doing it."

Also, earlier Him and JJ did a photo shoot for a wedding endorsement. It was said JJ's breasts were crushing Him. Reporters teased Him's chest is even bigger than JJ, Him said: "I don't dare to say, Ms. Jia's should be better. (Someone's going to twist your ear?) I'm afraid my mom will twist my ear!"

This is Mandy's first time as a drummer, she expressed she learned drumming before when she was in school, but it was jazz. When reporters mentioned Joe expressed he'll push the girls into the water, Mandy laughed and said it's fine, making everyone happy is most important, but she doesn't know how to swim.

TVB Deputy Executive Chairman Norman Leung hosted a celebration banquet for Gloves Comes Off's good ratings and announced the 5 new benefits for employees. The cast including Selena Li, Nancy Wu, Power Chan and his pregnant wife Mimi Lo attended.

Norman expressed 4 of the 5 benefits are effective from July 1st. (1) Add a regulation for weekly work schedules; (2) From 12am to 7am, the traffic expense claims increases from ~$50 to $64; (3) On business trips, the meal allowances increases for breakfast and midnight snacks from $10 to $15; lunch and dinner from $15 to $30; (4) The lucky envelopes for marriages and pregnancies increases from $500 to $800; (5) From June 18th and on, there will be two extra TVB work buses for the early morning hours. Norman expressed the benefits will be taken step by step and revisions will be seen little by little. The purpose is for the TVB 45th Anniversary celebrations, and in hope to give colleagues even more encouragement. When the employees learned of the new benefits, they were very happy for TVB’s sincerity. Norman expressed the work hour revisions will be the first step, and as the operations warm up, TVB may consider changing to a 5 day work week.

Pregnant Mimi Lo and her husband Power Chan were the first to show their appreciation for the new benefits. The new benefits and the HK$6,000 from the government, the couple were very happy because they’ll have more money to spare. Selena was also happy to hear the news, employees will feel more positive and be more active towards their work. In the past, when artists were working outside and wanted to eat more, the cast would have to pay out of pocket to cover the extra expenses.

The 18th Shanghai Television Festival flourished with TVB artists. Aside from Moses Chan and Ada Choi promoting for TVB's Beauty at War, the other HK artists Charmaine Sheh, Myolie Wu, Kevin Cheng, Bosco Wong and Bobby Au Yeung were all there to promote Mainland dramas. It was said Mainland artists' salaries skyrocketed, taking up 60% of the crew's production costs, and therefore the production companies are forced to use TVB artists because they are "beautiful bargains". Also, TVB artists are respectful towards their work, hardworking and able to bear hardships, and aren't as troublesome as Mainland artists.


A producer from Mainland expressed the current TVB artists working in Mainland aren't considered too expensive compared to local artists. The highest paid is Startling By Each Step's Kevin Cheng. He currently makes 25K RMB per episode, but other Mainland artists on his level are already asking for 40K RMB.

As for other HK artists, Ada Choi makes 20K RMB per episode; Bosco Wong 19K per episode; Myolie Wu 13K-14K per episode after she became TV Queen. Steven Ma and Bobby Au Yeung each make 12K RMB per episode and Sheren Tang gets paid separately of 15K RMB for guest starring in a Mainland drama.

TVB's Director of Production Resources Virgina Lok expressed its 'triple win' for those artists developing in Mainland, which includes gaining more fame, broaden acting career and skills. Artists' income also increases along the way, so even she has to make artists' schedules in Mainland a priority.

TVB's GM Cheng Sin Keung attended an awards ceremony yesterday and was asked about charging for the myTV service on TVB's official website (tvb.com). Mr. Cheng expressed: "It's not charging. It is misleading to use 'myTV', we will just be launching a new service. Basically similar to the previous video renting era. Because we currently lack channels for audience to catch classic series, so this new method can be a convenience for audience to watch the series on their phones or computer in the form of P2P. We will just start by serving the Hong Kong audience first." Mr. Cheng reveals the earliest launch of this new method to watch series will be early next year (2013). He is not worried this may affect the current PayVision channel. TVB just hopes to offer more choices to audience. This is not because there is not enough profit earned from the local commercials, that the company has to seek a new source of revenue.

As for the government's issue of three free-to-air TV licenses, ATV has already declared for a judicial review. TVB Group GM (Lee Bo On) also expressed a few days ago at the Director's meeting his consideration to take legal action on behalf of the company. Mr. Cheng expressed: "We don't have a concrete plan. We are just reacting on the situation to the government and hope the government will cautiously make considerations on the license issue arrangements."

TVB's Mr. Hong Kong Contest has stirred up many controversial topics in the previous years. This year, TVB announces the show will be put on hiatus for a year and when the show comes back, the direction of the contest must be clearly thought out first.

TVB's Director of Production Sandy Yu expressed yesterday the Mr. HK hiatus decision was made when she returned to TVB. "Since the first Mr. Hong Kong in 2005, this is the 7th year. There has been a lot of reactions in society, I don't know if the future of Mr. HK Contest will be high or low, meaning if there is going to be any 'explosions', entertainment or elegance. Since there is no balance between poor taste and elegance, then why not go on hiatus." She believes there are many other shows that could be produced, and what she really wants to produce is a contest for the heroes in law enforcement: "Like the firefighters or police officers that are heroes in the hearts of audience. I've mentioned this idea to a related party before, but the person thought I was joking. I will try my best to make it happen."

When speaking of Ricky Wong poaching the TVB staff, Sandy reveals TVB will be hosting a large-scale recruiting event in the summer to train new talents. As for poaching her old iCable colleagues? Sandy expressed: "I don't dare to say, but if possible, probably would go for it."

Matthew Ko was the first Mr. HK, followed by Francois Huynh, Benjamin Yuen, William Chak and last year's Clayton Li. However the group of Mr. HK winners have just had a mediocre career development, no one has made a breakthrough yet.

TVB series The Greatness of a Hero was seen as the 'bottom of the warehouse' series when it first premiere in HK. However, as the series gets closer to the end, the report shows an average rating of 32 point, peaking at 36 points. Looks like the series won back some justice. TVB's Director of Drama Production (Catherine Tsang) expressed the series has its strengths that is able to withstand the test of time. It's a 'stock' production, not a 'bottom of the warehouse' production.

Towards the high ratings, Kent Cheng felt especially happy that the ratings weren't affected by the Easter holiday. "I heard after our series finished shooting, someone saw the series, stole the idea and engaged in some 'infringement' producing another palace focused drama thereafter. This caused the HK broadcast of The Greatness of a Hero delayed time after time." Reporters later asked Catherine regarding to Kent's comment, was the palace drama he referred to Beyond the Realm of Conscience? She said: "There will not be 'infringement' happening in TVB. Whenever a series completes, only the series producer and myself can see it. I believe there is some misunderstanding, I will explain to Kent."

A row has broken out over a popular reality show that has as stars a batch of "blossomed women" - females aged over 30 - ready and willing to change their looks and their livestyles to find love.

Outraged by the TVB show, psychiatrists and scholars have come together to say the broadcaster should help protect society by pulling the plug on Bride Wannabes immediately and pledging not to produce more shows like it. They launched a Facebook group called "Say No To Bride Wannabes," which has close to 2,000 "likes."

But that's not how TVB is thinking, said deputy controller of external affairs Tsang Sing-ming. Rather than stopping the show, TVB plans to add to the desperate women with a male version.

Literally translated, the title reads as "Blossomed Women," with characters that play on the fact there are more women than men in Hong Kong.

The 10-episode show began on Monday of last week and the finale will be on Friday.

The five single thirtysomething women have undergone a series of makeovers by stylists and a life coach so that they can find a partner. But that means the program teaches people to become fakes in order to attract men, argue some of its detractors.

A member of the Facebook group, psychiatrist Tsang Fan-kwong, said he has never come across the theories being pumped out by the show.

One calls for a woman to look at a man from a 45-degree angle and not to show excitement no matter what he says or promises. Tsang asked: "Why 45 degrees? Why not 35 d
egrees? Any angle is good enough as long as the conversation is conducted naturally. Those `professionals' on the show are merely making silly suggestions to earn money. They are shaming themselves."

A market fish hawker could offer better advice than the life coaches, he added with a snort.

Tsang said he also fears for the five participating women as netizens are likely to dig into their backgrounds to make fun of them.

Ho Chi-kwan, a former social science associate professor at the Polytechnic University, said the show is also flawed as it teaches women to behave in the same way to attract men.

It is more of an advertising package than a reality show, she added. For there appeared to be 23 commercial operators - dating companies, beauty salons and restaurants - in the first five shows.

But Tsang Sing-ming's thoughts are on more of the same. TVB has had requests from viewers for a male version, he said, though nothing is finalized.

"Hong Kong is a place with the freedom of speech," he said, and "while we receive criticism we also receive applause."

The Communications Authority had received 41 complaints against the show by last night.

In the recent year, microblogging has replaced blogging and has become the place to hang out for artists from all over HK, Mainland and Taiwan. However, recently there has been a lot of Netizens spreading political rumors and verbal abuse has happened incessantly, which led to a concern within society. This is also an important task for Weibo Management. The two largest microblogging networks Sina Weibo and Tencent Weibo saw this problem, therefore yesterday the two Weibo sites sent out an announcement without prior agreement. The announcement stated with regards to the recent Weibo comments having too many rumors and other illegal messages, creating an unhealthy impact on society. As a centralized process, Weibo/Tencent has decided to temporarily suspend the comment function on Weibo starting from March 31st @ 8am to April 3rd @ 8am.

When 'Comment Giant' Anthony Wong learned Weibo suspended the comment function, he shouted that it's a good thing: "This is a good decision. I already decided to play with it for a year or so, then delete and leave. I just want to share my views with friends, and not with people who want to cause trouble!" He said two months ago, he talked about the election on Weibo, and wrote: "The type of people makes up the type of policies." Some people in Mainland strongly expressed their disapproval. He said: "They thought I was talking about Mainland, and just by that it got all exaggerated. Another time, I wrote I supported spoofs, and out of the blue people said I was against Vincent Zhao. Please go watch the News Magazine, that episode was about the spoofing culture, this is called verbal abuse, it's a mob of people!"

Anthony concluded with three points of perspective: "First, there is some group of people with Schizophrenia, jealous that Hong Kong people going up North to make money; Second, it is them that think they are high class people, living in a high place of virtue, like a sniper controlling others' lives and continuously stirring up disputes. The best they can do is boycott you and your movies; Third, its life threatening too, telling people to be careful, but in fact they are the ones who are the weaklings with no power, but likes to pretend to be Gods." Anthony also stressed he won't be defeated: "As you all should go understand my meaning before going to delete my Weibo, I will find a new way to communicate with my Weibo friends."

Faye Wong caught unprepared

As for Faye Wong, who is also a Weibo addict, was surprised and didn't know about the suspension. Usually she gets over 1,000 comments, but yesterday there was none. At 8am, she said: "I didn't not allow comments, what's the situation? Am I being sensitive?" Later when she learned about the comment suspension, Faye suddenly realized: "Rumors led to comment suspension, haha, well said!"

Joey: No good to harm people

Joey Yung hopes Weibo can have the function to confirm who the person is, because she doesn't want worthless attacks by fictitious people: "Weibo is a place to draw in human relationships, but now it has turned into a place that harms people. That is really not too good, but the majority of the people are friendly!" Charlene Choi admitted Weibo has taken an important role in her life, she said: "I have encountered extreme comments before, and felt unhappy, I hope people can mutually respect each other!" Gillian Chung also shared her unhappy experiences on Weibo, but reminded herself that she needs to control her emotions, and not strike back.