The sequel to the television drama The Queen of News, titled The Queen of News 2, has achieved significant viewership milestones on mainland Chinese platforms, accumulating over 250 million clicks and an impressive 1.95 billion views related to social media topic discussions. The series, which holds a respectable 7.9 rating on the popular reviewing site Douban, recently held a promotional event in Hong Kong on the 16th, featuring key cast members Bosco Wong, Samantha Ko, Hera Chan, Venus Wong, Joanna Tse, Tonia Kwok, and Matthew Ho, revealing fresh details about the production and character development.
Wong Discusses Character Transformation and Commitment to Role
Leading actor Bosco Wong, whose character is known for his sharp wardrobe, appeared at the event in a designer trench coat, hand bag, and diamond accessories, mirroring his on-screen persona. Wong confessed that he incorporated his own luxury items and sunglasses into the filming after the producer initially felt his initial wardrobe lacked appropriate swagger for the role. “My character demanded meticulous coordination—the suit, pocket square, tie, and even the socks had to match in color,” Wong explained.
Addressing the audience’s reaction to his character’s distinctive, often arrogant demeanor—particularly noted during scenes involving product placement like drinking milk—Wong acknowledged the deliberate portrayal. “Many people felt I captured the necessary ‘villainous’ quality.” When questioned about viewer criticisms regarding the heavy visual filtering used in some scenes, Wong remained neutral, stating that different series employ varied filming styles, while co-star Samantha Ko praised the professional lighting crew for enhancing their appearances.
Awards Buzz and Financial Speculation
Despite strong fan support and speculation that his performance could earn him a TV King award, Wong downplayed the possibility, noting that positive audience reception is more gratifying than any physical accolade. Ko expressed confidence in Wong’s dedication, praising his serious approach on set. Wong also humorously recounted a moment during an outdoor scene at a diner when a sudden restroom urgency led to several retakes (NGs) due to his inability to leave the set.
Regarding persistent online rumors placing his salary for the series at HKD 500,000 and Ko’s at HKD 350,000, Wong deflected with a laugh. “Certainly, Man姐 [Charmaine Sheh] earned the highest, so don’t bother asking about the rest of us.” Ko clarified that under their contracts, artists are compensated based on “show fees.”
Ko and Chan Reflect on Professional Growth and Audience Reaction
Samantha Ko shared that her role provided valuable insights into workplace dynamics, leading her to adopt a more focused professional attitude. She emphasized a key lesson learned: “The most crucial thing is to maintain my own value, dedicate myself to every task, hold back my ambition, and only strike when the time is right.” Ko also addressed recent online speculation about her well-being, confirming she was managing a flare-up of eczema requiring medication, not a recurrence of panic disorder. She also clarified that being seen in public wearing hotel slippers was simply a choice for comfort before a shoot, not a sign of any mental distress.
Hera Chan, who immediately transitioned to The Queen of News 2 following her conclusion in The Gilded Forest, noted the stark contrast between the two characters. Chan admitted apprehension about playing a potentially divisive role that might attract negative comments but confirmed her character faces an unfavorable ending. She lightheartedly suggested that if the series garners high ratings and proceeds to a third season, she would consider celebrating in a swimsuit, insisting Wong must join her. Chan also jokingly stated her intention to apologize to Charmaine Sheh’s character “Man姐” after the series concludes, possibly over a reconciliation drink.
Fan-Driven Shipping and Misidentification
Joanna Tse’s role as an assertive, gender-neutral businesswoman and her character’s frequent expressions of admiration for “Man姐” have led fans to ship the pair, generating AI-created images of the characters kissing online, dubbing them the “girl-girl CP” (couple). Tse admitted initial surprise but felt flattered by the passionate fan treatment, expressing hope that the fan pairing might lead to future joint promotional opportunities. Meanwhile, Tonia Kwok refuted a viral photo allegedly showing her engaging in crude behavior on public transportation, strongly denying the accusation by stating, “I don’t own those shoes, that is not my style, and I would never behave that way in public.” She dismissed the incident as baseless humor.
The widespread popularity and public scrutiny of The Queen of News 2 underscore the significant role drama series play in shaping public discussion, driving social media engagement, and creating valuable opportunities for cast members both on and off-screen.