TVB Celebrity News

Yesterday Steven Ma attended a traffic safety event. When speaking of TVB executive Catherine Tsang asking him to come back for a series in May? Steven frankly expressed after he terminated his contract with TVB last February, Catherine did tried to convince him to come back to shoot a series, but he is currently unsure of his position, "We haven't discussed the details yet. (Will you go back?) There are a lot of choices now, companies from Hong Kong and Mainland have been approaching me. Catherine is my See Fu, so of course I will discuss with my See Fu first! It is not about the money, the most important is a good script and co-stars! I hope to collaborate with Fala Chen and Tavia Yeung. (Has Ricky Wong approached you too?) We have been in touch, but until I make a decision, I'm in a sensitive position. (Any interest to join HKTV and shoot refreshing themed dramas?) If I wanted to, that could be done anywhere. (Support the issue of the free TV license?) I understand TVB's approach, and I understand Ricky Wong's proactive approach. I just hope there will be healthy competition. I wish ATV the best too!"

The two TVB high executives Catherine Tsang and Virgina Lok each have their "favorites" competing in the 'one person per vote' TVB Awards earlier. In the end, Catherine Tsang's favorite Wayne Lai defeated Raymond Lam becoming the three time TV King winner. It was rumored because of this, Raymond Lam has intentions to leave the entertainment business and plus Virgina's other favorite Kevin Cheng is currently actively working in Mainland and has no interest in returning. Catherine is taking this opportunity to get her 'people' to come back to TVB, such as producers Tsui Ching Hong and Lee Yim Fong and artists Charmaine Sheh and Dayo Wong. Also part of Catherine's group of favorites, Steven Ma, left TVB last February due to disagreements with the artist department and asked to terminate his contract early. It was said once the contract ended, Catherine and another TVB executive Au Wai Lam immediately went out to try and convince Steven to sign a per-series contract. However, Steven was already participating in Mainland drama The Legend of the Yuan Founderer, so he had no choice but to decline. Last September, Catherine personally invited Steven back to shoot a 30 episode drama, but again there were conflict in his schedule.

Although Steven's contract is still in discussion, Catherine has already orally prepared him to participate in Producer Leung Choi Yuen's new series in May. To show her sincerity, she will personally discuss the contract terms with him. Yesterday Catherine admitted over the phone that Steven is making a comeback, "A year ago, I already asked him to come back!" As for Steven, he frankly expressed over the phone: "Catherine has been in touch with me all along, but at this moment, I cannot promise anything because there is still a lot more details that still haven't been discussed yet. After all, I probably won't have a definite answer before Lunar New Year."

Also, the new issue of Good News exposed TVB wanted to please Raymond Lam, therefore plan to cancel the JSG Music Awards 'one person per vote' system and just give Raymond both the Most Popular Male Singer and Asia-Pacific Most Popular Male Singer awards to him. Last night, Raymond was recording for a TVB program, he responded: "Something to do with me again? It sounds like I don't need to put any effort. (Do you have any confidence for another one person per vote?) I'm so miserable! Everything I do is wrong. When it's public voting, people say I have the most fans. (It was rumored you're renewing your contract for an award?) It's just what the media said!" When reporters mentioned the recent reports of ex-girlfriend Mavis Pan's new boyfriend, Raymond immediately kept his mouth shut.

Also, it was said Dayo Wong's TVB comeback series is going to be producer Tsui Ching Hong's new series War of Genders 2, but it was also rumored Tommy Leung won the battle and successfully got Dayo to participate in producer Man Wai Hung's Your Hired 2 in April. Producer Man expressed: "Nothing is confirmed yet. Dayo is a talented actor, of course I want to work with him again."

Yesterday Steven Ma attended The 47th Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo (HKBPE) to promote for the brand 'Han Sang' in which he is the spokesperson for. When speaking of his junior Raymond Lam has plans to retire from the industry due to his TV King loss and take over his father's family business? Steven said: "Actually he has a lot of potential, very suitable for this industry. At the end of the day, don't feel discouraged, awards are just secondary, don't waste yourself! (He said he wants to help his father's business?) Well he can hire other people to help. Just continue acting on one side, while learning how to run a business on the other!"

It was also rumored Kevin Cheng turned down a TVB costume drama Cold Mountain Hidden Dragon because he didn't want to shave his head and TVB is turning to Steven for help? He said: "I temporarily left TVB in February of this year, but we have always been in touched. Catherine Tsang contacted me several months ago, but it is definitely not about this series. The rumor is a beautiful misunderstanding. Ricky Wong and other TV stations have approached me as well. If all goes well, I will have a decision after Lunar New Year. (Siu Sangs are unwilling to shave their heads?) I understand this because we can't accept other jobs for 6 to 7 months! I often shave my head, already 6 times. Although it is troublesome to do other jobs, but for a good script, it's no problem."

Yesterday Steven Ma was shooting a commercial for a catering group. He had to demonstrate how to cook up six different lobster dishes. He laughed and said it feels like he's doing a cooking show.

When asked about the recent rumor that he and his girlfriend reconciled? Steven generously admitted: "That's correct! My girlfriend and I did get back together and our relationship is very stabled. However, I'm not sure how we will develop in the future. After all, I am happy with both my work and personal life!" Asked if the catering company will sponsor him lobster to use for his wedding banquet? Steven laughed: "I'm not going to get marry just because of sponsors. If they sponsor me a 100 lobsters, then will I have to host a 100 table banquet?!"

Also, Steven expressed the Mainland series that he filmed earlier will be broadcasting on CCTV soon and welcomes any other TV station to give him acting opportunities.

Steven Ma, Kay Tse and Stephen Chan attended the charity event 'Life or Death' Life Talk Show hosted by Will In Action. Steven shared the story of his mother's experience in fighting cancer for 20 years before passing away and his personal experience suffering from clinical depression.

Steven reveals he's currently busy preparing for his first produced series: "I've been busy with scriptwriting lately because I'm going to Wuhan in September to start shooting for new series Single Parent Ten Years (單親十年). Writing about myself, I need other feelings, but when writing about others, I need to withdraw, it's like having schizophrenia. As for the production part of it, this time I'm investing and producing the series, so I must know how to save money. Working behind-the-scenes is different from being an artist because working on screen, you just need to worry about fighting for opportunities." He frankly expressed he is participating in choosing the lead actress role as well, and will recommend a few to the director. He said: "I get to participate, but I don't get to choose the leads. I'm afraid people may say I'm unfair. However, I will make suggestions to the director. I recommended Tavia Yeung, Charmaine Sheh, Ada Choi, Fala Chen and Linda Chung because we have collaborated before."

Yesterday Steven Ma was at Hengdian World Studios shooting for new Mainland drama Yuan Yang Pei (鴛鴦佩). Steven was shooting an outdoor fencing scene and got very sweaty. He laughed and said he got slimmer: "Shooting ends later this month, then I'm going for summer vacation and in August I'll be in Shanghai to discuss releasing a new album. The big boss will invest into the production company that I'm opening, the Little Ma Work Studio. Its scheduled to establish at the end of the year, producing films and TV series. I'll be learning how to be a producer, scriptwriter and I hope my director dream comes true as well!"

Steven is developing smoothly in Mainland, but does he get paid 200k RMB per episode? Steven laughed: "Not that much, but the pay is ideal. (Won't be shooting back in HK anymore?) Catherine Tsang asked me to sign a per-series contract with TVB. I grew up in TVB and have feelings. Even if I terminated my contract and left, the relationship is still good."

Steven Ma was shooting for a Hengdian TV series Mandarin Duck Pendant (鴛鴦佩) and got an eye injury. In one scene, Steven was fighting several martial artists and someone accidentally injured Steven's left eye while charging up to him. At the time, he felt some pain as tears came streaming down, and his contacts started shifting too. However, the staff weren’t aware that there was an accident. To avoid slowing down the shooting progress, Steven just used eye drops to take out his contacts and then got right back to shooting. In fact, Steven's eyes are considered quite calamitous. Just a few years ago, he was kicked by a horse and injured his right eye.

Steven said nobody wants accidents to happen. That night, he immediately put ice on his eye to prevent his eye from swelling and thus affecting the shoot on the following day. However, the next day when he got back to work, his eyes were still swollen anyway. The director saw the professionalism in Steven and understood his situation, so he allowed Steven to get a day off for bed rest. The makeup artist and lightning staff were also considerate, being very careful while putting makeup on him and reducing the lightning to maintain Steven’s good looks.

He is a well known Hong Kong TV actor, and has acted brilliantly in TVB series such as DOMD1998, Healing Hands, and Gentle Crackdown 2. He is also a talented scholar ( 才子) amongst actors, who periodically shares his own thoughts and feelings in his own column, One Pen Ma, published in the Clear Newspaper. He is the 4th Brother in many people's hearts; he is Steven Ma.

Steven Ma, whose contract with TVB has just recently ended, is currently in Hengdian filming his new series, "Yuan Yang Pei"《鸳鸯佩》. In his column, Steven uses "New series, New knowledge, New Challenge" (新剧新知新挑战) as a topic sentence to succinctly describe this new series. Yesterday during Yuan Yang Pei's first day of filming, this reporter did an exclusive interview with Steven.

Both Good and Evil; Two Kinds of Characters Perfectly Interpreted

First time filming a pre-modern series in mainland and already Steven faces a new challenge that has him playing two characters with a completely different personality from each other, namely: Li Lai Fu and Tang Ting Xuan.

Steven expresses that he likes this challenge very much: "Li Lai Fu is a very simple, very honest person. My makeover right now is for his character. Very grassroot. His feelings for Yong En (female lead) is very pure, his love comes straight from the heart. And Tang Ting Xuan is the young master of the Tang family. Since young he has been greatly influenced by his father. His forte is doing business. Sometimes very ruthless can even say evil. And he also engages in an ongoing power struggle with his older brother, Tang Ting Liang. He is a very complex person but he wasn't born that way, the environment he is in has molded him to be that way. Later, like Lai Fu, he too, falls in love with Yong En. So, the entangled relationship of Lai Fu, Tang Ting Xuan, Yong En makes this series quite challenging."

Attentive to Details; Props and Make-up both very Important

"I consider myself an understanding person, but at the same time, also a person who adheres to his principles", this statement Steven once said in his column. And at Hengdian on-location filming, the reporter observed certain details that fully supported Steven's own self-evaluation.

Detail #1: Analyze the script, remember own props.
"Blooper" scenes often appeared in the series because of inappropriate usage of props. During the interview, Steven had just finished his first scene: Lai Fu, an outsider who just came into town, upon seeing the job hiring notice on the Golden Jade Restaurant happily tears it off and enters the restaurant. Prior to filming, the crew member handed Steven a bag imprinted with diagonal lines. When Steven saw it he laughed and said: "Isn't this the bag that Lai Fu would use in the later scenes when he delivers take-outs? My scene now is a job interview. So should be carrying my own luggage ba." Sure enough, checking against the props list, the crew immediately made the switch.

Detail #2: Portraying a grassroot, should have a grassroot look.
It is well known that Steven's skin is inordinately good. When filming in Hengdian, the make-up artists praised his good skin for making their work easier. But because Lai Fu is from the countryside his skin is naturally on the tan side. The troupe had already considered this aspect so the make-up artist dully applied the skin darkening power onto Steven's face for a tan look. Nevertheless, Steven still spotted a problem: For the scene, Lai Fu's clothes have both his sleeves and pants rolled up, thus, the exposed flesh contrasted starkly with his face. After communicating his observation to the make-up artist, two make-up artists simultaneously remedied the earlier oversight of exposed flesh with darkening powder. Steven said contritely: "Sorry to have troubled so many people to help with my make-up. Maybe for next time I should go get a natural tan under the sun." But in later scenes, Steven will portray a rich young master of a wealthy family so of course this sun tanning method will not work. So for now, Steven will just have to bear with an overall body make-up.

Detail #3 Understanding his co-star will promote more tacit collaborating
Steven, who has mostly filmed tv series in Hong Kong seldom collaborated with mainland actresses, so when he heard that this series required him to collaborate with mainland actress, Zhang Meng, he proceeded to understand who Zhang Meng (张檬) is. "I found out that this person, Zhang Meng, will be paired with me. So I checked. First, very young. Second, very pretty. Third, I heard that her performances are pretty good too." Although on the acting aspect both parties still have to adapt to each other, Steven is not worried about their collaboration: "Earlier in Beijing, we were already introduced to each other. With this initial acquaintance I believe we now have a better understanding of each other."

Temporary Leaving TVB; Look Forward to Having a Tailor-Made Role

March this year, Steven officially terminated his TVB contract, and left his 'maternal home' where he had worked for 18 years. Furthermore, his last TVB series, Daddy Good Deeds, has just finished broadcasting, with good ratings, to boot.

Talking about his future without TVB, Steven came across very mature:" For now, I've temporary left TVB. Also, recently, Hong Kong has just finished airing my series, Daddy Good Deeds. My jobs in mainland for the next two years are currently under negotiation. Conversely, on Hong Kong side, I'm still undecided because many of the tv stations in Hong Kong are all very good, including my own maternal home, TVB. For now, I welcome all kinds of collaborations. But mainly it will depend on fate and the script.

"As for the role, this Tang Ting Xuan though has deep sentiments can be considered an antagonist. For me, it has already realized my first challenge. In the future, there are still many more characters I would like to attempt. Actually, I really hope the scriptwriters would tailor-made a role for me that is challenging to me, that would be awesome."

Even though for various reasons Steven did not renew his TVB contract, toward his "maternal home" he has only gratitude, like what he once wrote: " Actually, worldly affairs change, human affairs may not necessarily change; the people and things in TVB, the gratitude and sentiment, I remember them all clearly."

Love Hengdian, Enjoying Life

Taiwan's Iset tv station once said this of Hengdian: "If you are an artist and have yet to visit Hengdian, then you must work even harder." Truly, since 1996 Hengdian constructed its first Guangzhou streets scene zone and Hong Kong streets zone until today with its many other scene zones, lots of artists from outside mainland have visited Hengdian and many have even become regulars here. Steven, who has trained his focus onto mainland, has also gradually become one of Hengdian's regulars. In his One Pen Ma column he has mentioned Hengdian numerous times: "Say Hengdian is very flourishing and prosperous? In film production aspect, definitely.""Food, drink, entertainment, Hengdian basically has them all. ""Looking at Hengdian's sky..this kind of chilly and gray atmosphere imbued in me a kind of solitary clear-headedness."

In this interview, Steven has obviously become familiar with us, as he spontaneously addressed us as "Little Heng Heng", (tn: Hengdian's affectionate nickname) and has even become a tour guide to his new colleagues."In my troupe, there are many who came here for the first time. Many of them came from Beijing so seldom came here. Anyway, I'm very familiar with this place. In Hengdian where to eat or whatnots, they all ask me. Especially that restaurant 状元烤蹄, I really like. "Beside dining, Steven, who greatly enjoys physical fitness and sports, even find such places in Hengdian. He says: "I love to go to the badminton court in Hengdian. Yesterday I just finished a set. And had even made many new friends there. Also the gym, I like it a lot too."

4th Brother is so called 4th Brother because besides being 4th in his family, it is even more so because many people consider him a friend they can interact socially and also view him as a big brother. I believe this attentive and earnest, considerate and kind-hearted 4th Brother will travel far on the road of success.

TVB series Daddy Good Deeds starring Steven Ma, Linda Chung, Ha Yu, Evergreen Mak and Nancy Wu maintained high ratings despite the Easter holiday broadcast period. According to TVB's tradition, if a series breaks the 30 point TV rating mark, a large-scale celebration event to watch the finale will be arranged. However, this TVB did nothing for the Daddy finale on Friday. Guess its related to producer Miu Siu Ching and lead actor Steven Ma already left the company.

Seeing this, Siu Ching Jeh personally paid out of pocket for a 3 table celebration banquet to reward the cast and crew. Aside from Linda Chung, who left to Canada, the other cast members including Ha Yu, Nancy Wu, Cilla Kung, Evergreen Mak, Steven Ma and others attended. During the banquet, the cast gave Siu Ching Jeh a hug, making her feel quite emotional.

Steven expressed he especially changed his schedule to attend this celebration because he and Siu Ching Jeh went through three excellent 'combats' together: "The first time, it was Safe Guards v.s. Princess Pearl, then it was Where the Legend Begins v.s. The World Cup and this time it's Daddy Good Deeds v.s. Easter." He reveals in the next half of the year, he will be shooting in Mainland and is considering to purchase a property in Beijing.

Also, Ha Yu was asked if he's afraid TVB might come after him for celebrating with Siu Ching Jeh? He joked: "No fear, I deleted all my call logs with Miu Siu Ching and Steven Ma, there is no trace and proves my innocence."

Linda Chung: Steven Ma Accompanied Me Through Stormy Weathers

In Virtues of Harmony 2, there were many good teachers teaching me how to act. I recall this one scene about (Michelle) Hung Bak Lam having a terminal disease so she thought of ways to make Ivan Sze Gee San (Steven Ma) leave her. When she went to the airport to send Ivan off, Steven told me to show my side profile first then slowly turn around toward him and cry, the outcome would be that much more effective. Even now I still continue using this crying method Steven taught me.

A Journey Called Life

During this period I was at low tide, also the period my homesickness was really intense. I am very grateful having Steven constantly encouraging me and putting up with me. In this series, I portrayed a wet miu. (party girl(?)) with lots of family problems. Also had a stillborn scene. The script closely relates to real life. Can be said among Steven and my collaborated works to be my most favorite and satisfied one.

A Watchdog’s Tale

This series let me see the other side of Steven. I did not expect that shod in flip-flops he could be so uncouth (ma lat) totally departed from his normal refined and polite image. And since this is a comedy, during the shooting my mood was not too heavy.

Ghost Writer

During VOH2's filming I was a rather cheerful woman, but during Ghost Writer's filming it can be said that I fell to the lowest pit. The years within the entertainment circle was like a rubber band tightening around me; it finally snapped during this period. I realized I was not suited for an entertainment lifestyle plus I didn’t have my family in Hong Kong. I was depressed. Plus I suffered constant insomnia. And had bad skin. I knew that Steven at seeing me thus was worried but did not know what to do so kept his silence, staying by my side quietly supporting me. Fortunately, now, on the whole, I have re-adapted to this lifestyle. I try to do more stuff that I enjoy. Also know how to better communicate with friends and to share my concerns, so can gradually cross over deep pits. During Daddy Good Deeds’ shooting, Steven finally saw that I had become more and more sanguine. I’m very grateful to this good brother of mine who has always stood by me and supported me.

Linda’s 'Draw Something' for Steven.

Steven is my good brother, who has witnessed my up and down moods since I entered the industry. He has stayed by my side the whole time. Even though he has now left the company I still hope that Steven, who has not only accompanied me throughout my growth but is also a good partner who worked well with me, can return to my side to continue making more good series.

Steven Ma: Linda Chung is Like My Younger Sister.

Virtues of Harmony 2

This is Linda’s first series, I thought this woman was very pretty, and a bit shy, very well-behaved (guai) and ingenuous. During that time, I constantly had lunch with her to chitchat so that she would be more relax. I recall saying this to her: “This field is not all that complex. But opportunity always exists for one to turn bad. So in everything must put in efforts to learn from it. The most important thing is not to go down the wrong path. To this day, she still manages to do that, and is also still a good woman.(guai nui)

A Journey Called Life

She has matured, her acting skill has also improved, especially her emoting feelings has improved enormously. Our collaborations are mostly small productions, this series is no exception. The story content emulates real life's happenings. It talks about us being husband and wife. It was our second collaboration, but our relationship seems to have gone a notch up, more like brother and sister. To this day, she still calls me ‘gor gor’.

A Watchdog’s Tale

We officially filmed a comedy series, laughter was constant. Also, our characters underwent a big change. I was crude and slovenly, a total uncouth man (malat zai). While she had on this short hair wig to portray a tomboy. Totally a Wu Jun lookalike. Haha! This series increased our tacit understanding of each other. I recall during the shooting, I commented that no series could possibly pose a problem to us because we already knew each other’s strengths and weaknesses so could mutually compensate each other’s deficiency.

Ghost Writer

During this period Linda had serious insomnia, very edgy all the time, and her skin was bad too. Plus the character in the series endured many grievances so that affected her moods too. Could see that it was a tough period for her. I was concerned for her. At the time, I constantly urged her to take rests, to do exercise because besides relieving stress, it can also affect the spirit. After that, we filmed our own separate series, but we still kept in touch and I knew her situation underwent a positive turnaround. During Daddy Good Deeds, she seemed much more happier. At the last (DGD promo), she told me that she do aerobics once every week to keep fit. She seems to be in good spirits. I’m happy for her, and also feel more at ease (on lok) about her.

Steven’s 'Draw Something' for Linda

There was this one scene that was shot at a jewelry store. During the break Linda was taken by a butterfly pendant and so for the first time in her life she bought a diamond pendant. She said she loves butterflies a lot and that whenever she sees one she would be very happy. I remember what she said, so today I especially drew a butterfly to make her happy.

Steven once spoke out on Linda's behalf subsequently incurring TVB's wrath.

Steven Ma: TVB should do some self- reflection.

The male lead in PSL (Ghost Writer) and also Linda’s most collaborated partner-in-crime and good friend, Steven Ma revealed that witnessing her tearful break down distressed him. “The main reason was due to exhaustion from over work. Too tiring! She’s always been very anxious about her work performance; she had to film series, cut records, and film movies at the same time; always insisted in doing them all perfectly. So bringing on constant insomnia. Her mother wasn’t here in Hong Kong, so I made Ching pu leung herbal tea and watercress soup for her, and also constantly chatted with her. But the most important thing is for her to get some rest….” Linda by nature is pliant so did not dare demur when given series projects to do.

Steven entreated: “TVB really needs to re-examine her workload arrangement! Although she is a tvb managed artiste but still management needs to properly plan her workload. Piling her with a heavy workload and having her doing it all is not necessarily a good thing. She has to be able to handle it. Have to see if 'xiu pang yao' (young friend) can even breathe first? Even if she can do it, she won’t look good (leng), and her voice won’t sound good either! Sooner or later, she will be wrung dried, her health neglected.”

Steven Ma is a singer turned artist, who entered TVB 19 years ago. Eventually, Steven reached up top becoming one of the first line TVB Siu Sangs and has filmed countless series over the years, but didn't really have rumors. He has a deep relationship with the three FaDans Tavia Yeung, Fala Chen and Linda Chung. Due to having rich life experiences, Steven often coaches the three girls and unconsciously took on the role as their Big Brother.

(Steven speaks...)

Over the years that I've been with TVB, aside from my three god-sisters Tavia, Fala and Linda, many other artists including Kenneth Ma calls me 'Big Brother'. However, I get along most with Linda, Fala and Tavia, we have collaborated the most and have the most fate. When I first met Linda, it was in 2004 when she was shooting her first series, Virtues of Harmony, she played a couple with me. In 2007, Fala played my little sister in Steps and in 2009 Tavia collaborated with me in Sweetness in the Salt, where we played a couple and started getting more familiar.

A good Listener who can keep secrets

Although we never formally became god-siblings, we have a very good relationship. We often chat and I'm more than willing to help resolve any problems they might have. I admit that I am very good at keeping secrets. Whenever they have something to tell me, I will just sit back and listen. Even if I do give them advice, I would turn around and forget it. Once my little sisters finishes venting, then they'll be ok! And whenever there are things they want me to help deal with, I would really put out my heart to help them. I believe it is because of this that they were able to put down their guards towards me. Earlier on my birthday, my three sisters came to celebrate with me too!

I've once said to them, if they ever encounter someone bullying them, then must speak up. I won't let anyone bully my sisters! Although I'm not a martial artist, I will help as much as my capability allows me to. I will pursue justice without any second thoughts and just go help them. This is my promise to them!

Praises Tavia has a very good brother feel

In fact, they all give me a different feeling. Ah Yi (Tavia) is a very independent woman and also has the least problems among the three. I don't need to worry about her! She is a person that will come running to me when she sees me from a far. Compare to the other two sisters, her personality is much more tomboy, and is rather mature. Our relationship really feels like brotherhood, haha! Although I don't get to see her much, I still love her very much.

Fala appears like a little girl in front of me, but she's a very straightforward person, so much that she may even offend people and won't know. I've seen her relationship with reporters not go so well before. Her communication style with the media is a little strange... so I often try to advise her as a big brother. For example, the tone she uses is not too good, I would tell her to change the way she expresses herself. Fortunately, she listened to me and has really reflected on herself based on my advice. Because artists' relationship with the media can be considered closely related, we must mutually show understanding and provide support. For whatever it is, we should not be too stubborn! Recently, I have seen improvement from her. Last week, I talked to her on the phone and told her my experience, that others may not accept your first reaction! Although it is said in order for a person to be slick and sly, they must lie, but in fact I cannot accept that. I will choose another method to handle this: I choose not to say it! Then I don't have to lie.

Urged repeatedly to maintain a pure heart

I know Linda the longest, but she is actually the one I'm most worried about. One time, she messaged me on Weibo and told me that she's a big girl, but I am still worried because Linda is too naive, too simple and can easily get bullied! It's fine working at TVB, a 'greenhouse' that provides maximum protection, but if she were to head out to work elsewhere, then it will be difficult. I watched Linda come into this industry back then. One day we were having a meal together, and I urged her whatever she learns to do, do not learn to be bad, don't do 'dirty' things. Must maintain a pure heart. Linda has been able to do this all along, and has been improving on her acting. I am very grateful. Perhaps, I am used to looking after my siblings at home, so my words may sound a little old-fashioned and feel like a father, but I am fortunate to have found three sisters that I could respect and love, and vice versa!

Aside from my beautiful god-sisters, I actually have three good brothers too: Evergreen Mak, Dexter Young and Lam King Kong. We have known each other for a long time and often hang out. They slowly became like family.

Evergreen and I have a deep relationship, which started when we did 2002's Where the Legend Begins together. Dexter got married in July, and of course he invited me to his wedding. That time I was shooting in Mainland, but I made time on my schedule to come back for his wedding no matter what it took. As for Lam King Kong, I also have a deep relationship with him. Our relationship may not be known by all, but people in the industry always say "there is no true relationships in showbiz", I think we broke through this saying. It's just that those people who says that, haven't encountered a true friend yet or perhaps they aren't willing to put their heart out to communicate with others. In fact, artists may not necessarily be 'fake' people!"

Steven said Fala's personality is too straightforward, but Fala in turn greatly praises her god-brother. As an independent girl, Fala frankly said she had always been desperate to have a big brother. After coming to HK and meeting Steven, she laughed and said her wish 'half came true'. Fala said: "At the time, when I participated in Steps, I was one of the newcomers. Whatever he believed this little girl lacked...he would give me advice, especially on life principles. There are many things in life, he taught me to tolerate. When encountering such situation, I cannot just jump out and keep talking, being too straightforward can really offend people without knowing it. He's got a good social circle in this industry and experienced, of course I would listen to his advice. I'm also very thankful that he teaches me on how to handle things in life! I even told my mom about this big brother. Earlier at the Ghost Writer promotion, my mom came to HK to support me, and saw him there too. Although we haven't officially became god siblings, our relationship is still maintained well. Our interaction is very true and real. I know my brother doesn't care if its official or not!"

Yesterday Linda Chung, Steven Ma, Evergreen Mak, Cilla Kung, Ha Yu and producer Miu Siu Ching appeared at the Tseung Kwan O school to promote for new series Daddy Good Deeds. As Shirley Yeung's good friend, Linda expressed she has not seen Shirley for several months, but they have kept in touch on Whatsapp. Yesterday Shirley came back to HK, has Linda seen her yet? Linda said: "Find an opportunity to. As a single mother, it is really mighty to be able to raise a child on your own. I will wish them good health and live happily!" Steven expressed he hasn't had many collaborations with Shirley, but as an outsider, one woman having to raise a child herself requires a lot of courage, she is very brave.

Earlier it was rumored Mona Fong personally asked Steven to stay with TVB. Today, Mona has already resigned from her position, so does this mean it will be difficult for Steven to serve for TVB again? Steven said: "I already said TVB has discussed with me. Mona Fong asking me to stay is a rumor, I never personally heard her say that she wants me to stay. She gave me a very good impression, she's a good person. Currently there are many different TV stations that have approached me. In Hong Kong, as long as its reasonable and fair, my first choice is 'maternal home' TVB." Steven knows Mona switched from her Vice-Chairman position to Managing Director. It should be a good thing, and won't be too difficult for her. The cast also bid farewell to producer Miu Siu Ching, who is leaving TVB at the end of this month.

Yesterday Steven Ma, Linda Chung, Evergreen Mak, Nancy Wu, Edwin Siu and Vivien Yeo attended the promotional event for TVB new series Daddy Good Deeds (DGD). As the lead actor, Steven had less screen time on the promotional clip, which clearly shows the results of leaving TVB. However, Steven insisted his support for TVB: "Not related, they asked me to come back and shoot the promotional clips several times, but I just couldn't fit in my schedule. Later, I will be taking part in a TVB Programme as a guest. It's been 19 years, I'm feeling unwilling to part from the company too." As for DGD scheduled to air during the period of the 'ashes', Steven was not upset at all: "It's not considered so this time, it's pretty good airing at the 9:30pm time slot. Easter is not a big deal. Before it was the New Years and World Cup, I'm always fighting and easily satisfied. This time, it's a good broadcast period!"

Now on freelance, Steven is doing extremely well. Next month he'll be starting a new Mainland drama and is being paid 6 figures. He expressed he can just shoot a few more series and will have enough to buy a new home. He also reveals TVB, Ricky Wong and NOW have all approached him. Recently, Felix Wong exposed in an interview, back then TVB only offered a low HK$500 raise per year as a contract renewal condition. Steven was asked how much of a raise he hopes TVB should give? He said: "I'm already very satisfied with the Mainland salary. Right now, I just hope to have more freedom and we are still discussing a 'per series' contract. Honestly, TVB can give a raise, I think there will be a raise and it won't be so little as HK$500."

Linda strongly supports its fair

In regards to Steven's little screen time on the series promotional clip, Linda expressed: "I didn't purposely go count, but TVB is very fair. Also, the clips had Steven and I in it, how can they cut it?"

When the promotional event wrapped up, producer Miu Siu Ching, who is also leaving TVB, felt emotional with red teary eyes and gave the cast a goodbye hug.

When artists are shooting in Hengdian, do they go to the night clubs, karaoke bars or any of the nightlife places to kill time? Does their lives get more and more splendid?

Steven Ma arrives in this location for the first time to shoot a series, after a 4 month long stay in Hengdian, he already turned into an 'old horse knows the way home'. From the very beginning Steven didn't know if he would fit in with the Mainland artists, but it turns out just one badminton racket did the trick. When Steven got to Hengdian, he looked for entertainment and eventually a group of 4 teamed up to play badminton and exercise. They were practically playing badminton every night after work. Now leaving Hengdian, Steven's mood is: "When can I come back to Hengdian and play badminton with my brothers and sisters again?"

In the past, Steven did go out for a 'few drinks' after work with friends to reduce stress. However because of his one experience of getting out of hand after drinking, he now deeply understands its wrong to affect other people while intoxicated. So, he started looking for new ways to reduce stress, which is to play badminton. Badminton can also help him exercise. Since then, Steven has given up drinking and didn't touch alcohol at all during his time in Hengdian. He killed time in a healthy way.

TVB new series, Daddy Good Deed, will air this month on the 19th right after "Hippocratic Crush" ends. This series is viewed as an "orphan series", the reason being that it is the farewell series for both its producer, Miu Siu Ching, and one of its main leads, Steven Ma. Producer Miu will soon join NowTV, while Steven has already terminated early his contract. The currently airing Daddy Good Deed's previews on TV showed only Ha Yu's character, pawn shop Yi Shuk Gong, greeting his neighbors while male lead, Steven Ma, has almost become an 'invisible person'. The 'conspiracy theorists' think that Steven has been ostracized, that Daddy Good Deed has become a "film inventory futures' 「摄期货」, and that TVB expedited its broadcast so that the series won't be an eyesore languishing in the pit of the warehouse.

Steven has just finished shooting "Legend of the Yuan Empire Founder" and is now taking a break in Hong Kong. As to his farewell TVB series, 'Daddy Good Deed', becoming an 'orphan' work, he is not worried that he would be ostracized by TVB. Steven has confidence that this series will not be aired under the radar, and that the outsiders have over analyzed. He said: "TVB and I still maintain a good relationship. It is soliciting me to sign a per series contract as another form of contractual collaboration. I don't think TVB will not give a cold treatment to my 'temporary separation' series."

Reasonable to Highlight own people
Steven speaks out for TVB in that he was not being coldly treated. (tn: re DGD promo trailers) He says the male lead of DGD is Ha Yu, and that he himself is Ha Yu's son in law, so the promo trailers focusing on Ha Yu is not unreasonable. Moreover, the promo trailers are aired in stages. Last night new promo trailer was already introducing other characters, including his. Steven says that Producer Miu had informed him of the series' promo video shoots but at the time he was in mainland shooting a series, and as he's not omnipresent he could not make it at the time. But now that he is back in Hong Kong he will cooperate with TVB in the series' promotional events. Originally, as part of the DGD promotion, TVB had also pre-arranged a media interview for him but wanting some private time alone he tactfully turned it down. Furthermore, TVB tv magazine had also previously arranged a cover page photo shoots but regrettably Steven could not make it back to Hong Kong then.

CRHK Chance Encounter -Former boss, Stephen Chan, Now Friend
Yesterday Steven went to Commercial Radio studio to have an interview with Eileen Cha. The new CRHK Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Chan, made a special appearance in the studio just to say hi to Steven. Steven laughs and says that it was quite unexpected to see Stephen Chan there. Apparently, Mr. Chan knew of Steven's interview with Eileen Cha so he especially dropped by the studio to see him. Their chat was brief but they had agreed to do lunch soon. Steven says that in the past he and Mr. Chan had a boss-subordinate relation but now they are friends. Steven congratulates Mr. Chan on his new job and that he is happy for him.

Contract Terminated Early due to Dissatisfaction with a certain person.
During Steven's interview with Ms. Cha, it was pointed out that his TVB contract was originally set to end in July, but he requested its termination four months earlier, consequently severing the 18 years or so employer-employee relationship. Steven says he has deep feeling for TVB, and that he will miss many of the people and stuff at TVB. However, regrettably he and TVB have irreconcilable differences of opinions and that he was uncomfortable with how certain situations were handled, hence his early termination of contract. He admits that he has met up with Ricky Wong for food and drinks and socializing, and that NowTV has also contacted him. Furthermore, his work schedule in mainland China is now full, including a plan for a series he will script and act in. Nevertheless, TVB is still his maternal home. He will consider a different form of contractual collaboration with it in the future if he feels comfortable with its script, work conditions and terms. Incidentally, he has always kept in contact with his mentor, Catherine Tsang, and that he will make an appointment to meet with her soon. (tn: Ms. Cha brought up Catherine into their conversation.)

Bernice Liu is willing to attend her tvb series' promotional events
TVB External Affairs Deputy Director, Tsang Sing Ming 曾醒明 announced that Daddy Good Deed will be promoted in the usual conventional promotional method, and that they have also invited Steven Ma to participate. Even though Steven has already left TVB but appearing as a freelancer in the promo event should not pose any problem. As to the series, The Greatness of a Hero《盛世仁杰》that will air later, one of its female leads, Bernice Liu because of her contract with Ricky Wong's CTI company, TVB will respect the spirit of a contract so it is not convenience to issue an invitation for her participation. This reporter contacted Bernice's manager who corrected TVB's misunderstanding. Bernice has only signed with an agent management company not with the tv company. Should TVB want her participation in the series promo events, she will be more than happy to accommodate if her schedule permits.

Recently Steven Ma has been focused on shooting series in Mainland. Yesterday during an interview with Eileen Cha, Steven mentions he has already terminated his contract with TVB, and ended the many year relationship. Steven reveals the main reason for his early contract termination was because he and TVB had different philosophies and he was unhappy with the management: "Actually after I completed the first 4 years of the contract, I initially didn't plan to renew it, but because of Catherine Tsang's sincerity, I decided to do so." Although it ended in a contract termination after all, Steven stressed he still deeply loves TVB and he also hopes TVB will continue to have collaboration opportunities with him.

Last night Steven uploaded a photo of his injured finger on Weibo and expressed he accidentally stubbed his pinky while closing the door. Also, a few days ago Lawrence Ng revealed on Weibo that back then when he was shooting Healing Hands with Steven, they both had a crush on Ada Choi, who is now a mother. Ada responded laughing that its because she's just too perfect, so many people like her.

Steven Ma's contract issues with TVB had been dragging on and on, but now its finally settled. Yesterday Steven accepted an exclusive interview while working in Hengdian, where he admitted that he'll be a freelancer starting next month. He expressed he is very grateful of his 'maternal home' (TVB) for looking after him over the years. He said: "Last month, I already finished discussing with TVB. The contract runs until the end of this month. All is going smoothly, I am very grateful. Right now, there is one less worry and I can start considering my future outlook."

Over the years, Steven had filmed many high rated series. It was rumored that TVB is minding their own business, especially sending out their executive and Steven's mentor Catherine Tsang to bring out the 'friendship card' and try to persuade Steven to sign a special contract that's in disguised form to continue the relationship. Also, it was rumored CityTelecom's chairman Ricky Wong offered him a sky-high price to entice him over to participate in a 50 episode long series. Former TVB producer Miu Siu Ching, who has switched over to NOW, is trying to recruit Steven along with many other Mainland production companies as well.

Steven said: "I did talk to Ricky Wong before. As Catherine Tsang is my mentor, her words are in my heart. Other companies have approached me before too, I am still hesitant. At this moment, I still do not have a decision yet." He admits aside from shooting series, there were also management contracts. He said: "The script is the most important, money is secondary. As for the management contract, I have to carefully consider. In short, I am very grateful of all the people who have approached me, thanks for the appreciation."

Steven Ma joined TVB in 1994 with the support of executive Catherine Tsang. Up until today, it has been 18 years since he's been with the company. Unfortunately his series were often pushed into the 'ashes' broadcast periods and thus made him lose several chances to take the TV King title. In addition, earlier TVB stopped him from accepting Mainland series and prevented him from earning the Chinese yuan. Due to these reasons, Steven felt disheartened and wanted to get his freedom back by terminating his contract early. Although recently it has been rumored that Mona Fong personally attempted to convince him to stay, he still was unwilling to reconsider.

According to reliable sources, yesterday morning, Steven went back to TVB City to discuss the contract termination. He went into one of the executive's offices and had a confidential discussion for half an hour. In the end, he decided to terminate his contract and end the 18 year relationship with TVB. Regarding this issue, [Oriental Daily] contacted Steven to clarify. He admitted that he was at TVB City yesterday morning, but he declined to reveal if he successfully terminated the contract or not: "I will talk about this later. I can only say that right now TVB and I are pleasantly discussing this matter!"

As for Virgina Lok, she said over the phone: "This morning Steven Ma came back, and talked to us about the early contract termination. In fact, his contract ends in May, but he asked to have it end in March instead. TVB has already accepted! Earlier, TVB accepted some jobs for hm and he agreed to finished up with those jobs first. As for the details, we have already passed it to the legal department for them to follow up."

Steven Ma and his girlfriend of 8 years (Vivian Hui), initially had plans for marriage last year, but in the end the marriage plans turned into a break up. Yesterday Steven exposed that he and his girlfriend are broken up. Steven went to Hengdian late last year to shoot Mainland drama Founder of the Last Empire, and took off yesterday to participate in a stage performance. During the event, he was surrounded by fans, especially the children fans, who were unwilling to leave. Steven saw how cute the young fans were and said it's about time he becomes a father too.

When asked when he's going to carryout his marriage plans? Steven appeared evasive towards his love life, but eventually admitted he broke up with his girlfriend. Steven and Vivian's fate started from red wine. Vivian is involved in a red wine business and this wealthy girlfriend of Steven's had been kept confidential all along, until two years ago when Vivian appeared at one of Steven's series promotional events. It was then his girlfriend was officially made public.

Regarding the decision of break up, Steven was unwilling to reveal too much. It is not known if the break up had something to do with the marriage being dragged out repeatedly. Steven said it's a new year, a new start. He hopes everyone has a happy new year. Asked if he's in a new relationship? He said he will not speak of his love life at the moment, he just wants to concentrate on his work. For the Lunar New Year, he will be doing stage work in California and Los Angeles. His contract with TVB is still in discussion, his principles has not changed and if there is a decision made, he will announce.

On November 1st, Steven Ma ‘temporarily’ left his TVB home for Hengdian to shoot Director Tsui Siu Ming’s 50-episode historical drama, “Legend of Yuan Empire Founder” 《建元風雲》. This drama is tentatively scheduled to air at 8 pm on cctv1 in 2012.

Character Similar to Zhuge Liang

Steven collaborated with Hu Jun and Charmaine Sheh et al in the tv series, "Legend of Yuan Empire Founder". Liu BingZhong, (劉秉忠), the character Steven portrays is similar to Zhuge Liang, whereby he assists Kublai Khan as portrayed by Hu Jun, to establish a new nation. His role has lots of room to flex his acting chop. In the series Steven undergoes numerous makeovers, one of which is that of a monk. Director Tsui Siu Ming even personally shaved Steven’s head for him, and praised Steven for having a beautifully shaped head. Tsui also said that though this is their first time collaboration, he is impressed with Steven's professionalism. The reason why he uses Steven for the role of Liu BingZhong is because this character cannot be too rugged, or be too soft, either. Mainland actors are usually too rugged or are pretty boys siu sangs; Steven’s masculinity and gentleness are well balanced.

Tsui Siu Ming: Thriving & Prosperous

Steven has only recently joined the production team, but Tsui Siu Ming has already noticed the latter’s skin becoming more ‘moisturized’ (radiant). “Working in TVB, his (Steven’s) ‘qi’ got sucked up by TVB. In mainland he breathes in the mainland air. (qi) If he comes to Hengdian often to shoot series, I guarantee he will “thrive and prosper”.『家肥屋潤 – well fed & well oiled』 When Siu Ming gor’s words were repeated to Steven, he initially misunderstood ‘round and smooth’ (圓潤) to imply he had gotten fatter and was instantly concerned. But he relaxes when he finds out that the words actually indicated his healthy aura and his smooth and radiant skin. Steven says that (before he came over) to ensure he would be in peak form for his performance here, he not only gave up eating his beloved noodles but also diligently went to the gym to workout, and that his mental and physical conditions are better than before.

Zero Reaction to TV King Nomination

So as to break into Mainland China, Steven has temporarily shelved his unresolved contractual issue with TVB. He expresses that he is definitely changing the type of contract with TVB, so even if nominated for tv king his heart will not be moved. Before Hong Kong, Steven had already unequivocally expressed his position to TVB. He once again emphasizes that he has no conflicts with TVB, just that he cannot collaborate with certain people there. If the issue can be resolved, he will be more than happy to collaborate with TVB in a different way.

As to TVB recently being bombarded by outsiders, like Mandy Chan’s incident while filming a tv travel special in Japan, whereby her boyfriend, Eric Suen, publicly lambasted tvb. Steven says forthrightly: “Some artists are scared to offend TVB so they kept quiet. Old Suen dares to speak out. Good for him! (真好嘢!) This incident illuminated the problematic handling of matters by someone in TVB.” Steven also says that if tvb continues to do nothing to fix the problem, when face with next year television war, he fears for tvb.

Steven’s role in Legend of Yuan Empire Founder is heavy. He is expected to stay in mainland for three months. Later he will go to Mongolia for on location filming. As to whether he will attend the anniversary gala to show support, he says candidly that the chance of his attendance is slim.