Star Power: The Unyielding Influence of China's Top Actors on the Entertainment Industry

According to producer Meng Mei, top-tier actors like Xiao Zhan possess a unique "deterrent power" that can significantly impact the success of a project. This sentiment is echoed by senior producer Lin Kai, who analyzed Yang Zi's success, highlighting her strategic choices in script selection, performance, and commercial value. The discussion underscores the crucial role of these actors in the entertainment industry, with their ability to draw audiences and drive engagement being a key factor in determining their market value.

The fan economy also plays a significant role in the success of these actors. Fans not only consume content featuring their idols but also actively promote them, defend them online, and influence brand decisions. The importance of a star's positive public image for brands cannot be overstated, with controversies or negative public opinion surrounding a star potentially impacting their commercial value and making them a liability for brands.

The assessment of an actor's appeal or "calling power" likely involves an analysis of viewership data, social media engagement, and fan activity. This suggests an increasing reliance on data analytics in the entertainment industry to gauge a star's market value. Producers are clearly factoring in the "calling power" of key actors when making casting decisions, indicating a shift toward a star-driven system where the presence of a popular actor can significantly de-risk a project.

The success and popularity of these actors also contribute to the broader cultural landscape, influencing trends, fashion, and even social discourse among their extensive fan bases. As aspirational figures for younger generations, top actors' public image and behaviors, though carefully managed, can indirectly influence societal values and norms among their followers.

However, with great influence comes great scrutiny. The industry and regulatory bodies maintain a close watch on these stars, and any missteps can lead to severe consequences. The producer's concern about brand partnerships being "finding trouble for themselves" if a star has a negative image underscores this potential political and societal scrutiny.

In recent months, the discussion around the appeal of Yang Zi, Xiao Zhan, and Cheng Yi has gained traction, particularly in relation to their recent drama successes and strong fan bases. The success of Xiao Zhan's drama "藏海传" (Zanghai Biography) has been cited as evidence of his impact, with fans praising his acting and appearance online. Yang Zi's acting skills, especially her micro-expressions and empathy, have also been praised, with her ability to choose scripts with social commentary and her "de-skilling" approach to acting being notable aspects of her career.

As the Chinese entertainment industry continues to evolve, the market power of top-tier actors like Yang Zi, Xiao Zhan, and Cheng Yi will undoubtedly remain a significant factor in determining the success of films and television dramas. With their immense influence and dedicated fan bases, these stars will continue to shape the cultural landscape and drive engagement in the industry.