HONG KONG — ViuTV’s popular talent competition, King Maker VI, has entered its critical 60-contestant group elimination phase, thrusting several unexpected hopefuls into the spotlight as fan favorites. Despite initial self-doubt regarding their chances of even reaching the top 99, contestants including Gordon Cheung (No. 6), Kai Cheung (No. 18), Dave Wong (No. 19), San Kam (No. 31), and Bosco Kwan (No. 92) are now dominating online discussions and industry buzz, showcasing diverse talents and aspirations for stardom.
The quintet represents a mix of talents aiming to replicate the massive success of previous champions like Keung To. San Kam, a 21-year-old dancer, has notably been dubbed the “visual representative” or mandan of the group due to his striking looks. Meanwhile, Dave has garnered attention after producer “Flower Sister” Wong Wai Kwan compared him to singer-songwriter Ian Chan. Gordon, 22, has drawn comparisons to popular artist MC Cheung Tinn Fu, a likeness he welcomes. All are striving to gain a coveted debut slot in the highly competitive Hong Kong entertainment industry.
Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Confidence
San Kam, despite his dancing background, admitted that the sheer talent pool among the finalists meant his skills no longer provided a singular advantage. Having secured a spot in the top three of an early online poll, he expressed gratitude but set his sights higher: releasing a solo single to convey complex inner emotions through music. Conscious of his “visual” title, San Kam acknowledged his smaller frame and is actively engaging in fitness despite possessing what he describes as “big eyes.”
For 25-year-old Kai, his appeal lies in his affability. While he initially desired the label of “handsome,” he now finds the description “approachable” more suited to his character. Kai credits his adaptability, strong social skills, and enthusiasm—despite acknowledging his non-exceptional performance skills—as assets. He aims for an acting career, referencing the versatile career path of MIRROR member Edan Lui, whom he greatly admires, noting, “He can film in Korea; that’s incredible. I hope to follow his acting route and take on challenges in variety shows.” Kai’s appearance has been compared to both Korean star Jung Yong Hwa and veteran Hong Kong actor Louis Cheung, comparisons he sees positively for their varied appeal.
Setting Sights on Industry Role Models
Eighteen-year-old Bosco Kwan, the youngest of the group and still a student, does not consider himself a front-runner but banks on his friendly demeanor. He expressed a keen interest in receiving training in South Korea and joining a professional boy group, citing MIRROR members Anson Lo and Jer Lau as inspirations for their polished singing and dancing abilities. “Since joining the competition, I’ve realized how difficult performing and dancing is; I admire how they can strike a pose even after a difficult routine,” Bosco commented.
Dave, 24, who primarily excels in self-accompanied singing and boasts a distinctive vocal tone, referred to himself as a potential “dark horse”. Lacking extensive stage experience, he uses the competition to build confidence while recognizing the need for significant growth. He was admittedly flattered but surprised when “Flower Sister” likened him to Ian Chan, aspiring instead to Emulating Edan Lui’s all-around artistry and Keung To’s stage presence. “I know I have a long way to go to reach Ian Chan’s level,” Dave stated, determined to live up to the producer’s high expectations.
Gordon, the contender most often compared to MC Cheung Tinn Fu, was equally surprised by his early popularity in online voting. He hopes to leverage the attention to learn essential singing techniques from the established artist he deeply admires. These rising hopefuls embody the intense dedication and aspirations central to the next generation of Canto-pop idols, with all eyes fixed on the final elimination rounds.
The full details of these interviews will be published in tomorrow’s Ming Pao Entertainment section.