HOY’s sitcom “Your Security Guard Li Bao’an” premiered on Monday (26th) with a peak rating of 9.4 points, attracting over 600,000 viewers in a head-to-head challenge with TVB’s “Love in Place: Three Generations of Sweetness.” The strong opening has energized the production team, prompting calls for expanded resources and more episodes from director Ho Kuo Tin.
Production Pressures
The series is planned for 50 episodes, with more than 20 already completed. Ho has urged the network to increase investment, citing the debut performance. He also revealed that singer-actor Wai Jun Sheng will join after the first dozen episodes, and comedian Yim Siew Yee has expressed interest in appearing. Coordinating the busy schedules of leads Li Shangzheng, Lu Song’en, and Mai Peidong is a major challenge, adding pressure as the team races to meet deadlines.
During a recent shoot of a comedic kidnapping scene, actors wore hoods for effect. Ho became so absorbed in demonstrating the moves that he accidentally used profanity, shifting the mood from tense to lighthearted.
On Humor and Budget
Li Shangzheng, who plays security team leader Li Bao’an, said comedic taste is subjective. “Everyone’s sense of humor is different. Criticism can help you improve,” he said. Actors sometimes improvise, but the director has final say. Addressing complaints that the sets look basic, Li explained that studio filming is necessary to keep pace. He noted the main set cost about 500,000 to 600,000 yuan, with careful attention to detail. “It’s not how much you spend, but how you use it,” he said.
Li remained measured about the ratings, noting his involvement in both this show and “Undercover Travel Group.” He acknowledged the tough television market but praised HOY’s dedication to quality content. He hopes the show will attract advertisers and lead to bonuses for the team.
Rising Talent
Wang Yaohong, 23, plays a security guard hiding his identity as a wealthy heir. He has been noted as the show’s visual standout but accepts his acting needs polish. Wang welcomes all feedback and said executives have encouraged him, hinting at a larger role. He jokingly hopes actor Louis Koo will make a cameo, as Koo inspired his English name “Meaning” during a competition four years ago. Wang aims for double-digit ratings and even streams the show on multiple devices to boost viewership. He models his career after actor Liu Chun Him.
Bigger Picture
“Your Security Guard Li Bao’an” marks a key step for HOY as it competes with established networks like TVB. With a mix of veteran performers and emerging actors, the sitcom uses workplace comedy while navigating industry realities such as budget limits and scheduling conflicts. If it maintains its early momentum, it could shift viewer habits and encourage more original programming in Hong Kong’s television landscape.
