HONG KONG – Two of TVB’s rising stars, Hubert Wu and Arnold Kwok, are executing a sophisticated, multi-pronged campaign to secure the “Most Improved Male Artiste” award at the upcoming 2025 TVB Anniversary Awards, known locally as the “萬千星輝頒獎典禮”. Their joint effort, blending traditional outreach with personalized interactions, culminated in an impromptu musical performance at the broadcaster’s cafeteria, demonstrating their strong partnership as the voting deadline approaches.
The duo, both nominated for the hotly contested improvement accolade, have spent recent days actively engaging colleagues and the public. Earlier this week, seeking to inject warmth into the often-chilly run-up to the awards ceremony, Wu and Kwok visited Television City, distributing savory items such as abalone and soup packets to fellow staff. The initiative continued with a “flashmob” appearance at the massive annual Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo (工展會), where they handed out mango pomelo sago dessert (楊枝甘露) to interact directly with citizens before boarding a promotional vehicle to garner widespread public support.
The Power of Music and Mutual Support
The pinnacle of their campaigning efforts took place during the bustling lunch hour at the TVB staff canteen. Leveraging his musical talent, Hubert Wu grabbed his guitar, and alongside Arnold Kwok, spontaneously composed and performed an original song tailored to solicit votes.
Both artistes emphasized the boost in confidence derived from the overwhelming support of their colleagues. “Seeing so many company colleagues makes us so much more confident in securing votes,” they stated collectively. “Our greatest hope is to share the stage and both win the Most Improved Male Artiste award.”
Wu, a recognized singer and actor, has an impressive slate of nominations this year, making the shortlist in three categories: Most Improved Male Artiste, Best Supporting Actor, and Best TV Song (Top 10). While expressing a desire to win any TV award—highlighting that the specific category is secondary to the achievement—Wu affirmed that their synchronized campaign is rooted in mutual backing.
He also referenced historical precedent for their shared aspiration. “There was one year where two actors simultaneously won the Most Improved award,” Wu noted. “If that happened again this year, it would be a joyous outcome for everyone.” When pressed about his most confident category, Wu leaned toward the musical sphere, expressing a personal fondness for his nominated track, Golden Forest (《金式森林》). “I feel quite confident about the song category; I genuinely believe this song is excellent and I secretly hope it takes the win.”
Years of Dedication Pay Off for Kwok
For Arnold Kwok, this year marks his sixth consecutive nomination for Most Improved Male Artiste. He acknowledged the consistent desire to compete annually but expressed heightened expectations this cycle, citing a significant increase in his body of work.
Kwok’s breakout roles this year include his first-ever leading performance in Rich Man’s Family (《富貴千團》), as well as pivotal roles in dramas such as Sparrow Music Group (《麻雀樂團》) and The Queen of Newsroom (《巨塔之后》). “I have more substantial roles and works this year,” he shared, underscoring why this nomination feels particularly significant and fueling his strong hopes for victory.
The intense campaigning demonstrates the competitive spirit within Hong Kong’s television industry. The “Most Improved” category is often seen as a significant stepping stone, recognizing sustained professional growth and signaling future leading roles for the winners, making it one of the most career-defining awards handed out at the annual ceremony. As the final votes are cast, the industry watches to see if these dynamic efforts will result in a historic double win.