Hong Kong is gearing up for a major cultural event as the Hong Kong Musical Festival 2026 officially announced its principal lineup, set to captivate audiences at the West Kowloon Cultural District from January 11 to February 8, 2026. The launch, highlighted by a vibrant fan meet-and-greet on Thursday, featured prominent cast members, including actor and singer Hubert Wu, Alfred Hui, Lyman Heung, J.Arie, and Sinnie Ng of the pop group Lolly Talk, offering an early glimpse into the highly anticipated productions.

The festival promises a diverse theatrical program, with several actors sharing insights into their challenging roles. Lyman Heung, fresh from reality television acclaim, and veteran singer J.Arie will star as a married couple in the adaptation of The Addams Family musical, with Sinnie Ng portraying their daughter.

Lolly Talk’s Future Uncertain Amid Contract Talks

The media event also provided a platform for Sinnie Ng to address ongoing speculation regarding the future of her Mandopop/Cantopop girl group, Lolly Talk. Denying recent rumors alleging the group faced financial difficulties and outstanding debts—and suggestions that investor funding had been withdrawn—Ng confirmed that the eight members are nearing the end of their contract with their current management.

“This situation is evolving, and we eight members agree we need time to discuss our collective direction, what we want to achieve, and which offer is genuinely best for us,” Ng explained, confirming that multiple agencies are currently in talks with the group. “It isn’t just one contact. We want to consider everything carefully. I believe making a rushed decision will not lead to a favorable outcome.”

The singer expressed confidence that the group can eventually find a partner capable of accommodating the individual aspirations of all eight members, acknowledging that this presents a distinct challenge. These statements follow unconfirmed reports that veteran singer Hins Cheung had intervened, potentially facilitating a move to Emperor Entertainment Group.

Actors Embrace Challenging Theatrical Roles

The upcoming productions present unique hurdles for the cast members. Lyman Heung, reflecting on his role as the patriarch in The Addams Family, spoke humorously about channeling paternal energy despite not having children of his own, noting the on-stage dynamics involving his fictional wife and daughter would allow him to experience domestic life vicariously.

Heung, who has previous stage experience in the United States, admitted that the upcoming rehearsals, scheduled to begin in two weeks, pose a significant challenge due to the requirement for a simultaneous Cantonese adaptation. “Having to master the Cantonese version adds considerable difficulty,” he noted. “Also, I don’t have extensive singing experience. Watching J.Arie and the others jump straight into character when the music starts is genuinely impressive.”

Similarly thrilled was Alfred Hui, who is reprising his role in the musical For Leslie, a tribute to the legendary Cantopop icon Leslie Cheung Kwok-wing. “Returning to this role is both exciting and nerve-wracking,” Hui stated, revealing that the chemistry with his castmates was immediately reignited at a recent press briefing. The timing is particularly poignant, as 2026 marks the 70th anniversary of Cheung’s birth, adding profound meaning to the story about his dedicated fans and music.

Hubert Wu is set to participate in a unique film concert, The Baimiangniang: A Late-Blooming Osmanthus, centered around the works of the acclaimed singer Pan Di Hua. Wu acknowledged the pressure of interpreting such classic material. “I hope to introduce new elements while honoring this iconic work,” he said. “The format of the film concert—incorporating documentary footage, live orchestra, and classic songs—is a fantastic learning opportunity that demands intense daily rehearsal.”

The Hong Kong Musical Festival serves as a crucial platform for promoting the city’s vibrant performing arts scene, uniting new talents with established stars to produce culturally rich and engaging theatrical experiences that resonate across generations.

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.

Hong Kong actor Louis Cheung (張繼聰) debuted his starring film, Golden Boy (金童), at a bustling late-night premiere on Thursday (15th), drawing an eclectic crowd that included cast members, production talent, and notable sports figures, while the star revealed his intense two-year boxing preparation led by professional athlete Rex Tso (曹星如). Cheung was joined by his wife, singer Kay Tse (謝安琪), and their son, Zhang Jin, alongside fellow actors Cherry Ngan (林愷鈴), Rosa Maria Velasco (韋羅莎), Lam Suet (林雪), and director Jevons Au (歐文傑) who celebrated the action-drama’s launch.

The premiere served as more than just a promotional event; it offered intimate glimpses into the dedication actors undertook for their roles and the unexpected domestic side effects of their training. Cheung, Tse, and Tso addressed the media together, where Cheung praised the champion boxer for his dedication, noting that his transformation from a “bear-like” physique to his current shape was entirely due to Tso’s unexpected mentorship.

From Student to Striker: The Rigors of Preparation

Cheung originally sought gym recommendations from Tso but was surprised when the “Wonder Kid” decided to personally guide his training. “I wouldn’t dare call myself his protégé; I am merely a student learning from a teacher,” Cheung stated modestly, acknowledging the vast difference in their speed and skill during sparring practice.

The intensity of method acting had unintended consequences at home. Kay Tse revealed a humorous but slightly painful aspect of her husband’s immersion into the fighting role. She confessed to being struck several times during the night due to Cheung’s unconscious movements. “I’ve certainly been kicked, elbowed, and kneed while sleeping on multiple occasions,” Tse joked, adding that she only complained the next day—a true sign of a supportive wife. Interestingly, Tso confessed to similar incidents, having previously struck his own wife in his sleep, clarifying that his current focus remains solely on boxing, not acting.

When asked about celebratory promises for box office success, Cheung deflected the responsibility of a celebratory shirtless display, suggesting that his co-star, Chu Pak Hong, should handle the fan appreciation duties if the film hits major milestones.

Cast Members’ Health Battles and Industry Debates

The premiere also provided an update on veteran actor Lam Suet, who recently faced public scrutiny over his weight gain and skin condition. The prolific actor shared his ongoing commitment to improving his health, revealing he has successfully dropped 20 pounds, shrinking from 280 to 260 pounds through strict dietary changes, including limiting his breakfast to preserved bean curd and oatmeal.

“Reducing my weight has already begun improving the discolouration on my face,” Lam noted, though he admitted the struggle to resist culinary temptations, acknowledging he had “stolen” a bite of classic braised pork belly with preserved vegetables. He light-heartedly promised a radical transformation, potentially dressing as a “lady of the night,” should the film achieve a colossal box office tally of HKD 30 million domestically and surpass RMB 100 million in mainland China.

The evening also touched upon recent industry controversy involving renowned action choreographer Mars (蔣榮發, originally Chiang Jung-Fah). Mars addressed recent claims he made regarding industry figures, notably responding to prior reports about disputes over past compensation with Jackie Chan and refuting the context of old comments concerning Bruce Lee. Mars stood by the sincerity of his original remarks. “Everyone has the right to speak their truth,” he asserted, adding that he felt his earlier statements had been misinterpreted, concluding that he would not repeat his testimony on the matter.

Golden Boy delves into the intense world of professional fighting, exploring themes of dedication, sacrifice, and the enduring human spirit, promising audiences a gripping cinematic experience rooted in authentic martial arts preparation.