Virginia Lok steps out to settle Gun Metal Grey issue

TVB was previously accused of neglecting anniversary series Gun Metal Grey at its 43rd Anniversary Gala. And Felix Wong and Michael Miu, both leads from [GMG] are reportedly annoyed with TVB for the snub. To mend bridges among the parties involved, Virgina Lok has stepped out to settle the issue.

Virginia has spoken to Felix and explains that Felix is an outspoken person who will speaks out whenever he feels that there is injustice. She reveals that Felix is not angry at TVB. In fact, Felix has agreed to guest star in TVB's lunar new year movie I Love Hong Kong. Virginia adds that after Felix cools down then he will be alright.

Virginia also explain that as [GMG] was aired a little later than No Regrets, this may lead to one feeling as though [NR] was promoted a little more than [GMG]. However, she shares that more promotion will be dome for [GMG] in days/weeks to come.

Virginia explains that despite Felix's outbursts, he will be attending [GMG]'s promotional events. However, it is unsure if Felix will attend TVB's Anniversary Awards.

Felix was interviewed by TVB's entertainment news channel and he revealed that he came back to film [GMG] to help Michael Miu. Felix also praised the cast of [GMG] for having good spirits and are passionate about their work. Felix admitted that he follows [GMG] every night but added that his passion for acting is not as strong as it used to be. He is contented with his semi-retirement lifestyle.

Source: Oriental Daily with translations by aZnangel@ AsianUniverse.net

Earlier story: Gun Metal Grey snubbed at TVB Anniversary Gala

44 TVB Artistes goes "naked" for new photos

The latest issue of TVB Weekly (Issue 717) certainly caused a buzz in the HK entertaiment scene. 44 TVB contracted artistes were feature with bare shoulders giving the illusion that they may be naked. Artistes with rumours of them leaving TVB such as Charmaine Sheh, Joe Ma and Bowie Lam were not part of the photoshoot.

With rumours circulating about Charmaine's impending departure from TVB, fans and netizens are quick to jump to the conclusion that Charmaine's crisis with TVB has reached another level seeing that she is not part of the photoshoot.

It was revealed that TVB spent a 7-figure sum to hire professional designer, SK to take these artsy shot. TVB Executive, Virginia Lok explained that TVB did not take any new photos for their artistes last year. As such, they decided to take new photos this year to avoid having to re-use the dated photos.

As SK only has 5 days of "free time" TVB has to accomodate this schedule by rescheduling their own artistes' schedule. Virginia Lok also revealed that later on there will be a second batch of artistes who will get their turn. She says TVB has a total of 150 artistes and the number is huge. She adds that people such as Tavia Yeung, Kevin Cheng, Charmaine Sheh and Bowie Lam who were not in Hong Kong when the first round of photoshoot took place will have theirs taken at a later time.

More shots from the Inside Pages

Source: Oriental Daily with translations by aZnangel @ AsianUniverse.net

Wayne Lai shoots down the idea of Rosy Business 3

TVB's Rosy Business and its indirect sequel No Regrets received good ratings and praises from the audience. Although, at the recent TVB Anniversary Awards [NR] lost the Best Series Award to Can't Buy Me Love, there are still talks about filming a third sequel to this award winning franchise.

However, Best Actor winner, Wayne Lai does not feel that filming a third installment is a good idea. Wayne reasons, "I think we should quit while we're ahead. I don't agree on filming a third installment."

Producer, Lee Tim Sing was reported as saying should a third sequel for [RB] is filmed, the series would have to be set in modern times. After all [RB] was set in ancient times (Qing Dynasty) while [NR] was set in the pre-modern (early republic) era. However, Producer Lee admits that filming a "modern era" [RB] would be extremely challenging and difficult.

A celebration dinner was held for the cast and crew of [NR] courtesy of TVB's Co-Chairman, Norman Leung. At the dinner, Norman addresses some issues highlighted by netizens including the "unfairness" from the Anniversary Awards. Norman explained that it is reasonable for [CBML] to win the best series award as it is the highest rated series of the year. He also explained that every award given out was based on appropriate scoring. As for Raymond Lam's surprise win for "Favourite Male Character" award, Norman reveals that it is not easy to choose between Raymond and Moses Chan. Similarly it was tough choosing between Wayne and Moses for the best actor award.

Wayne throws his support behind Raymond for winning "Favourite Male Character". Wayne explains that the audience loves Raymond and there's no benchmark for liking a particular character. He also praises Moses for having a good performance as well.

TVB's management executives, Stephen Chan, Virginia Lok and Catherine Tsang all attended the celebratory dinner. Virgina Lok explained that she dare not discuss contracts with Wayne and Sheren Tang before the awards to avoid reports of the two artistes exchanging contracts for awards. However, after the awards, she can talk contracts with the two two-time award winners. She hopes to use the the most sincere method to persuade them with lots of money as well as long-term contracts.

Virginia also notes that Sheren's manager is her long-time friend, Helen, so she would not try to take Sheren away from Helen unless Helen retires. As for Wayne, his manager is his wife - which according to Virginia, they already have a lifetime contract together.

Sheren admits that she is a little touched when she heard that Virginia is sincere in persuing her with money. Sheren adds that should her manager helen retires, she would definitely consider TVB first if she was to sign another long-term contract. Reporters asked Sheren if she will buy a house to reward herself for her win at TVB Anniversary Awards, but Sheren says, "financing a house is a punishment, not a reward!"

Source: Mingpao with translations by llwy12@ AsianFanatics.net

Linda Chung wishes to replace Gigi Lai

Since retiring from the entertainment industry, Gigi Lai is no longer endorsing any products and/or brands. Gigi was once the fashion ambassador for MOISELLE, a high-end fashion brand. With Gigi's retirement, MOISELLE is now on the look out for a new ambassador.

Recently, MOISELLE had a fashion show for its In Full Bloom 2009 Spring/Summer Collection. Linda Chung, who starred in Moonlight Resonance and The Gem of Life and top models, Ana R. and Kathy Chow, took part and walked the runway for MOISELLE. Linda took the lead for the finale show and stole the limelight. A very excited Linda said, "This is my first time participating in such a big fashion brand fashion show, the styles of clothing felt like a princess, very elegant and high class. I am also quite satisfied with my performance, while I was walking the show, I deliberately did a small smile."

TVB top gun, Virginia Lok, was also present at the show to support Linda. Linda was happy and touched by Miss Lok's kind support. "I saw Miss Lok down below stage, actually I felt more nervous, like a pair of eyes watching me closely," she said.

Linda, who aspired to be a model when she was 10, said that she would like to replace Gigi Lai as MOISELLE's spokesperson. Linda explained, "I want to! I also feel that I fit the image. I do hope that they sponsor me their clothing, this fashion brand really has the feminine feel. Their styles are elegant and simple, fits my good girl image. Just now, the Boss praised that I did OK with walking the show, the most important thing is to have confidence. Before the show, I approached Kathy Chow and other models for some advice and methods of catwalks.""

MOISELLE's top executive, Chan Nam Kit, revealed that Gigi's contract has expired and MOISELLE is in the process of recruiting a new spokesperson. "This time, Linda Chung's performance in doing the catwalk was done well, I am considering her," Chan said.

Source: Mingpao with translations by aZnangel @ AsianUniverse.net

Gigi Lai's contract frozen, not terminated

Following the announcement from Gigi Lai of her intention to retire, TVB Executive, Stephen Chan said he accepts, understands and respects the reason Gigi wants to retire from the entertainment industry. However, he will wait for her return and strongly believes that there is still room for future collaboration. It is understood that the remainder of Gigi's contract with TVB will not be terminated but instead temporarily frozen. This means to say that should one day Gigi wishes to return, she has an obligation to fulfill the remainder of her contract with TVB.

Gigi Lai accompanied by Ada Choi when announcing her retirement

Virginia Lok, another TVB Executive, expressed that it is not easy for a company to create a top-level artist such as Gigi. However, Virginia supports Gigi's decision. Virginia added, "(Gigi) Still has many years left (in her contract), but we are putting that aside, previously she earned lots of money for TVB, she is not in TVB’s debt."

Gigi's fellow co-stars in The Gem of Life, all pledge their support and understanding. Ada Choi said, "As long as Gigi is happy, I’m happy, I feel it is a pity, but I am grateful to have collaborated with her in the past two TVB series. We are good sisters, she will not feel lonely, those who love her will always be with her." Lee Si Kei is shocked to hear Gigi's announcement and praised Gigi for being a rare girl who takes such good care of her family. Moses Chan expressed that it's a pity for Gigi to be leaving but knows that she is strong.

One last photo with her Gem of Life co-stars

Aside from her family commitments, Gigi hopes to create her own beauty line of products. She also hopes that The Gem of Life will do well and achieve high ratings.

Source: Netease, Sina
Translated by: Concubine_L @ AsianFanatics.net

Fans moved Raymond Lam to tears

Raymond Lam graced the opening ceremony to kick start Christmas at a shopping mall. Raymond proudly informed the reporters present that it was his birthday on that day. "This is my last time having a 2 for my age, next year I will not be announcing my birthday," Raymond said. His fans, who knew that Raymond will be at the function, prepared in advance to celebrate his birthday with him. The fans presented Raymond with mini Birthday Buns (siew toh) and serenade their idol with a birthday song. Raymond was very touched by their sweet gesture and was in tears.

Raymond revealed that he would be celebrating with friends that night. They will be going for dinner together. His birthday wish was for him to break in to the music scene. He wants to be a versatile singer who can sing and dance. There were reports that TVB executive, Virginia Lok has her artistes pets whereby she favours some artistes over others. Raymond rubbished these reports as merely rumours, saying Ms Lok is fair to all. "She is very busy too but she looks after us well. She is a very efficient head," added Raymond.

Source:MingPao with translations by dragon888 @ AsianVN.com

TVB announces Grand Productions at HK Filmart 2010

TVB Executive, Virginia Lok and a few TVB actors and actresses attended the recent Hong Kong Filmart 2010. Among those artistes who attended the event representing TVB include leading Fadans and Siusangs such as Charmaine Sheh, Moses Chan, Raymond Lam, Wayne Lai, Shereen Tang, Nancy Wu, Damian Lau and Jessica Hsuan. The artistes helped to introduce some of TVB grand productions for 2010. These grand productions are Can't Buy Me Love, No Regrets (previously known as Rosy Business 2: Righteous Sea of Heroic Love), Interpol 2010 and Growing Through Life.

Can't Buy Me Love
Formerly known as The Arrival of the Princess or The Princess Marriage, Can't Buy Me Love sees the collaboration of Moses Chan and Charmaine Sheh. He as the reluctant husband, while she as the ultra demanding Princess.

At the HK Filmart promo for the series, Moses openly declares that he is afraid of women. "I treat all women with love and hate. I'm also afraid of Charmaine, in the series she's a very savage princess," says Moses. When probbed by reporters id his current girlfriend is as savage as the Princess, Moses blushed with embarrasment and coyly feigned innocense. Charmaine also shares that she is currently single and is not sure if she was a savage girlfriend in the past.

No Regrets (formerly known as Rosy Business 2: Righteous Sea of Heroic Love)
A semi-continuation from the first Rosy Business, this is an indirect sequel. The story is independent but features (almost) similar cast list to the first. Expect to see stellar performances from Wayne Lai, Shereen Tang, Nancy Wu and new additions Raymond Wong and Fala Chen.

Gun Metal Grey
Formerly known as Cops/Interpol 2010, Gun Metal Grey sees the return of Felix Wong Yat Wah to TVB. This is an anticipated collaboration of Felix with Michael Miu and Jessica Hsuan. With such a strong veteran cast list, they will be backed with some new blood including Nancy Wu, Stephen Huynh and Vincent Wong.

Growing Through Life
Growing Through Life will be a Hong Kong/China collaboration similar to 2007's Grand Production The Drive of Life. Featuring almost similar cast line-up, viewers will see Damian Lau once again leading the series alongside Raymond Lam, Bosco Wong, Toby Leung, Cecilia Yip and Dominic Lam.

The series is set to be filmed on location is Hong Kong as well as Shenzhen, Macau, Chengdu and Shanghai. The series will revelve around the hotel industry in China.

Source: Mingpao/Sohu.com with translations by aZnangel @AsianUniverse.net

Raymond Lam wins Best Actor at Asian Television Awards

Raymond Lam picked up the Best performance by an Actor Award at the 2008 Asian Television Awards for his performance in The Master of Tai Chi. TVB hosted a party to celebrate Raymond's success and fellow co-stars, Myolie Wu and Selena Li were in attendance. TVB executives Virginia Lok and Tommy Leung were also present.

Raymond said that this award isn't a consolation for him after losing out on the Best Actor award to Ha Yu at this year's TVB Anniversary Awards. Raymond explained that The Master of Tai Chi was aired very much earlier in the year, thus it wasn't fresh in the minds of Hong Kong viewers, unlike his other series, Moonlight Resonance and The Four. Raymond expressed his gratitude to TVB for submitting The Master of Tai Chi as an entry as the series features Chinese culture and historical background. It is also worth noting that Raymond is the first Hong Kong artiste to ever win an Asian television Award.

Raymond felt that the local viewers find it harder to absorb the deep storyline of The Master of Tai Chi thus resulting in poor ratings but is glad that the series does well in the overseas market.

Source: Raymond Lam Takes Asian TV Award - Batgwa

TVB banking on Gigi Lai?

Gigi Lai is currently on a sabbatical, managing her brother's business as well as caring for him. Earlier this year, she mad an announcement that she'll stay away from showbiz for a year. But guess what? She's back.

Well, at least to help TVB with the promo of her latest drama series, The Gem of Life. TVB has also extended it's invitation to Gigi to film another mega-production with them, details of which were not divulged.

With this invitation, Gigi's status as one of TVB's top fa dans is secured. TVB"s another favourite fa dan is Charmaine Sheh. But of late, Charmaine is embroiled in the supposed love triangle with Kevin Cheng and Nikki Chow thus impacting her flawless image. It was reported that Virginia Lok personally approached Gigi for the new role.

Undated Photo: Gigi and Charmaine - battling it out for the top fa dan spot

Gigi and Charmaine has been constantly vying for the top fa dan spot in TVB. This "rivalry" or theirs began way back in 2005 with the series Dance of Passion.

Source: AsianFanatics

TVB Power 2011: Soaring Over the Horizon

Click for larger image

TVB Power 2011: Soaring Over the Horizon even was held recently at SKY100. This event saw the attendance of many TVB artistes including Wayne Lai, Kevin Cheng, Roger Kwok, Aimee Chan, Ron Ng, Steven Ma, Tavia Yeung, Linda Chung, Fala Chen, Kate Tsui, Bosco Wong, Myolie Wu, Kenneth Ma, Selena Li and Sharon Chan among others.

Triumph in the Skies 2

Charmaine Sheh, Nikki Chow, Sheren Tang, Liza Wang, Raymond Lam and Moses Chan were absent due to various reasons - either other work commitments or scheduling conflict. Raymond was in Shanghai for the Shanghai TV and Film Festival while Moses is in Brazil filming a TV special.

36 Hours On Call

Approximately 200 potential advertiser representatives attended. TVB also took the opprtunity to promote two grand productions 36 hours on call and Triumph in the skies 2. These two series are scheduled to begin filming soon.

Kevin Cheng was questioned by reporters if he is aware of the absense of his two former "girlfriends" - Charmaine Sheh and Nikki Chow. Kevin coyly answered, " I didn't even know she (Nikki) was going to come, I just know that I am attending." He added that he does not feel awkward should he bump into Nikki as they do greet each other when they meet.

TVB executive, Virginia Lok rubbished saying that this event does not feature top-of-the-line TVB fadans and siusangs. She emphasised that the artistes who attended are all very talented. "We already have Roger and Wayne, it's not because Moses is not here that it won't be enough," she explained. She also revealed that invitations were sent to all artistes. She added that perhaps Charmaine could not attend due to her tight working schedule.

Raymond's cousin, Lin Xia Wei, has just recently joined the TVB family. She expressed that she is happy and excited to learn from her seniors. She also explained that Raymond is working and could not find time to attend this event. Xia Wei adds that she would not mind if there is any chance to collaborate with Raymond.

Aimee Chan, who was recently spotted on a date with Moses Chan, is all smiles and shared that Moses is currently in Brazil. When reporters questioned her about her first date with Moses, she expressed that she feels happy and comfortable. She also adds that Moses is a very funny man and she has a good first impression of him.

Source: Hyn5, Mingpao, Oriental Daily with translations by aZnangel @ AsianUniverse.net

TVB freezes Tracy Ip

Undated photo of Tracy Ip at an event

Tracy Ip, winner of Miss Hong Kong Pageant in 2005, will be frozen by TVB after the Olympics. Tracy has numerous negative news this year and TVB feels that the news were created so that Tracy will get noticed. Unfortunately, this has back fired and her own image has been ruined. TVB has advised Tracy to be extra careful with her actions but this is not effective. Tracy apparently also used the Beijing Olympics to create news and also for self promotion. All these factors has caused TVB to reach the decision to temporarily freeze Tracy.

Tracy has appeared in many drama series of late, such as Love Exchange, When a Dog loves a Cat and the most recent, Moonlight Resonance as Raymond Lam's on/off girlfriend.

Although many negative news surrounding Tracy have surfaced such as breast enlargements, having undergone plastic surgery, travelling with a mid-aged man on expensive trips, Tracy has not reduced her public appearances. TVB is unhappy because all these negative news have tarnished the image of Miss Hong Kong pageant. TVB was also in the opinion that these news were deliberately created by Tracy and a magazine company. However, Tracy strongly denied that she has any part to play in this issue.

Tracy will not be given any roles in any new drama series, and her job as a host for E-Buzz will also be replaced.

When contacted, TVB executive Virginia Lok neither confirm nor deny that Tracy will be frozen. She has also spoken to Tracy about these negative news.

Virgina said "Tracy hasn't really appeared in many tv series and her main work is unrelated to acting. The programme (E-Buzz ) has been stopped for now, but I have not made further arrangements. If she has news reports it may not be good, if they are negative news reports then it will certainly give a bad influence. Now it has definitely got to the point where it's bad. Tracy is a very smart person but she must know how to handle the matters as soon as possible."

Source: Oriental Daily
Original Translation: kingkongit27 @ AsianEU

Steven Ma signed a new 3-year contract with TVB

Steven Ma, Yoyo Mung and Fala Chen had an outdoor filming session in Mongkok for new TVB drama Transferred Connection of Temptation. There was a huge crowd of onlookers who stayed on to watch them film. However, filming was not disrupted.

There was a group of tourists who grab on to Steven and refused to let go of him. The Producer joked that Steven may have paid them to "pretend" to be his fans. Steven joked, "I know that I have a huge fanbase in Mainland, I just couldn't believe that I even had Fans from the Black Dragon River."

Previously, there were news reports that Steven was still negotiating his contract with TVB. However, Steven was glad to reveal that he has signed on to TVB for another 3 more years. Virginia Lok encouraged Steven to continue his hard work with TVB.

In this new drama series, Fala Chen plays a pole dancer while Steven's character is a nosy and inquisitive lawyer. Other cast for the series include Lau Dan, Helen Ma, Kenny Wong, Matthew Ko, and Johnson Lee, among others.

Source: Mingpao with translations by aZnangel @ AsianUniverse.net

Photos from earlier costume fitting session:

Pic Credit: On.CC