HONG KONG – ViuTV, a leading entertainment broadcaster, is bolstering its talent roster with the formation of a brand-new boy band comprised of selected contestants from its hit reality show, King Maker VI. The announcement comes as established artists within the firm navigate industry challenges, including persistent speculation about contract renewals and broader concerns regarding decreased work opportunities in the entertainment sector.
The emergence of the new group was addressed by Jeremy Lee (李駿傑), a popular member of ViuTV’s successful boy band Mirror, during a press conference for the variety show Dice World on February 22nd. While admitting he lacked specific details regarding the new unit, Lee welcomed the fresh influx of talent, viewing the new group members as ‘younger brothers.’
Internal Competition Concerns Dismissed
Lee robustly responded to suggestions that the expanded roster might lead to internal rivalry or the dilution of corporate resources allocated to existing groups like Mirror. He stressed that a healthy atmosphere among colleagues is paramount.
“I don’t believe this will trigger internal competition, nor am I concerned about resources being spread thin,” Lee stated. “What matters most is that we each focus on our individual responsibilities. If we all do our part, we will naturally maintain a harmonious, family-like bond and continue to collaborate.”
The press event also touched upon persistent rumors circulating within the industry concerning the future of another high-profile Mirror member, Keung To (姜濤). Unsubstantiated reports have suggested that the singer might be exploring options to switch record labels when his current contract expires.
Lee dismissed the rumors, stating he was unaware of their origin. He clarified that Keung To’s current contract has an estimated two to three years remaining before expiration, making any discussion about renewal or defection prematurely speculative. He urged the public to remain patient, confirming that any definitive news would be publicly announced by the company.
Industry Grapples with Work Decline
Beyond internal shifts at ViuTV, the wider Hong Kong entertainment industry is confronting a challenging period marked by instability and reduced employment.
Actor Zeno Koo (吳肇軒) provided insight into these struggles, expressing concern for fellow artist Mak Cheuk-lok (麥子樂). Mak recently posted candid messages online detailing emotional distress stemming from a significant reduction in work assignments coupled with personal issues at home.
Koo, who is familiar with Mak, recalled seeing him a few weeks ago and emphasized that if they met again, they would offer mutual support, though he wouldn’t intentionally probe into the actor’s private struggles.
“I believe eight or nine out of ten people in this industry are facing the same problem: a general decline in work opportunities,” Koo observed. He stressed that the only practical response is to intensify one’s professionalism and performance, noting optimistically that the market sentiment has recently begun to show signs of gradual improvement.
The overall environment—characterized by strategic expansions like the new ViuTV boy band and the economic pressures faced by veteran artists—underscores the competitive and rapidly evolving nature of the current entertainment landscape in Hong Kong. As companies invest in new talent streams while established figures navigate market uncertainty, industry stakeholders are intensely focused on adapting to changing audience consumption habits and sustaining creative momentum.
