Last night’s broadcast of ViuTV’s popular talent competition, King Maker VI, featured a dramatic showdown where one mentor’s high-risk A cappella selection paid off, though the evening was later marred by an on-stage controversy that required immediate resolution. Mentor Gin Lee’s Group B2 clinched a victory in the self-selected performance round on Monday, overcoming significant internal critique and securing their win with a sophisticated, vocally demanding rendition of “Stand Firm Upon Seeing the Text.” Their triumph resulted in the elimination of two contestants from the opposing team, Group A4.
Bold Performance Choice Pays Dividends
The focus of the episode centered on Group B2’s unconventional choice: an A cappella performance of “Stand Firm Upon Seeing the Text” (見字企好). Gin Lee, an established Cantopop singer, conceded the selection was exceptionally ambitious. “It demands not just singing ability and a strong sense of rhythm, but mastery of harmonization. The pool of suitable candidates for this level of difficulty was very small,” Lee stated, emphasizing the inherent danger of the pick.
Despite the challenges, Lee selected six contestants—Michael (No. 35), Siu Gai (No. 12), So Jai (No. 68), Jeffery (No. 78), Winson (No. 20), and Billy Li (No. 94)—to form the unit. Following a harsh critique during the internal rehearsal day, where the group faced negative feedback, Lee shielded her team. Stressing her insight into their effort, Lee brought in renowned arranger and musical director Cousin Fung to refine the arrangement and vocal guidance, demonstrating extraordinary commitment to boosting their confidence post-rehearsal setback.
Judges Laud Vocal Prowess
During the official performance, Group B2’s dedication was evident, receiving overwhelmingly positive reviews from the three-judge panel. Veteran actress and judge Christine Ng praised Michael’s preparedness, finding his presence “comfortable to watch.” Ng also singled out So Jai for his steady vocal performance, even momentarily forgetting his name and asking for the “big guy’s” self-introduction, an honesty Gin Lee described as “very cute.” Fellow music producer T-Ma was particularly impressed by So Jai, exclaiming, “I heard So Jai’s voice and instantly thought, ‘Wow! I love your voice!’”
Following the self-selected segment, the groups engaged in a mandatory dance battle. Ng was visibly engaged throughout, detailing her sharp recall of specific choreographic elements, calling the entire showcase “a delight for the eyes.” Ultimately, Group B2 secured the necessary two lights to win the round.
The defeat immediately triggered the elimination process for Group A4, removing No. 53 Yut Ming, followed by the selection of a second contestant from the two remaining F-graded participants, Wong Sheung and June Yat. June Yat was ultimately eliminated, leading to a tearful exit for the losing team. The atmosphere backstage remained subdued, with even the winning mentor, Gin Lee, appearing downcast alongside co-host Joey Leung.
Sportsmanship Crisis Averted
A momentary controversy threatened to overshadow the night when Wong Sheung of the eliminated Group A4 lodged a complaint post-show regarding the dance battle segment. Wong Sheung accused Group B2’s Jeffery of aggressive behavior, specifically citing an instance where Jeffery forcefully tugged his clothing. Jeffery defended his actions, explaining he intended only to convey the energetic “battle feeling” and was unaware that physical contact was prohibited during the segment.
Upon learning of the alleged foul, Gin Lee quickly intervened, emphasizing the need for accountability. “If a person commits a fault, an apology must be made,” Lee instructed the team, urging them “to face this like men.” In a show of unified responsibility, the winning Group B2 collectively approached the opposing team and offered a full apology, successfully defusing the minor tension and closing the evening on a note of sportsmanship.