Huayu: Traffic is king

Chapter 153 Winning an award is an affirmation

On the morning of July 12, Gu Jingyi took leave from the "Kuai Ge" drama crew to attend the 7rd Golden Bone Award Ceremony.

In 2018, the Chinese entertainment industry officially entered the era of internet traffic, and the industry is paying more and more attention to the two indicators of popularity and online index.

When Lin Ze first received the invitation to the award, he didn't take it seriously.

After all, Gu Jingyi didn't attend the Tencent Star Awards last December, and Lin Ze accepted the awards on his behalf.

Gu Jingyi happened to be filming in the "Kuai Ge" crew at the same time, so he even had a ready-made reason to refuse.

Gu Jingyi decided to go after learning about it, as Dior would upgrade his title at the end of this month.

From Asia-Pacific brand ambassador to Asia-Pacific brand friend, the program will be finalized after a three-month evaluation period.

If you win any awards this month, you can use them to generate buzz on various social media platforms.

Being a top influencer often means having popularity but no real achievements.

Gu Jingyi is an anomaly in this industry; he has both works and popularity. The only thing he lacks is awards.

Jinguduo Media is also one of the mainstream media in the industry. This Jinguduo Internet Festival was jointly organized by Jinguduo Media and Weibo.

Popular celebrities inevitably interact with the media and Weibo, and their biggest expense is never clothing but marketing costs.

Gu Jingyi has maintained a good relationship with Weibo since her debut, and Huace also attaches great importance to managing her relationships with the media and Weibo.

Most celebrities in the industry will not deliberately offend Weibo, as Weibo is the primary platform for calculating fan counts in the Chinese entertainment industry.

As a top-tier celebrity and a frequent visitor to trending topics, Weibo took Gu Jingyi's invitation very seriously.

If Gu Jingyi could attend this awards ceremony, his top-tier fame would certainly boost the event's reputation.

Even on the red carpet, it's dazzling with stars.

Gu Jingyi's filming schedule was relatively easy, and he did need to use the award to release press releases to promote himself and increase his recognition.

Like a prince, he constantly elevates his status through awards, transforming the public's perception of him from a popular idol to a respected and talented performer.

Gu Jingyi agreed after considering these factors and his plans for better communication with Weibo in the future.

As soon as the plane landed, Gu Jingyi exited through the VIP channel. The business vehicles prepared by the organizers were already waiting, and Gu Jingyi and his team boarded them and drove to the star-rated hotel prepared for the guests at the Golden Bone Network Awards Ceremony.

"The clothes Dior prepared for you have been delivered to the hotel in advance, and our own makeup and styling team is waiting in the room with a spare room key, guided by the hotel reception."

As soon as they got in the car, Lin Ze started telling Gu Jingyi about today's plans.

"okay."

Gu Jingyi nodded, indicating that he had heard.

In fact, for any awards ceremony, the organizers will arrange for the artists' makeup and styling teams.

However, most celebrities choose to bring their own teams, with whom they have long-term collaborations, in order to avoid making mistakes in their red carpet looks.

Gu Jingyi is very obedient in this regard. He would never impulsively style or do his own makeup like a certain top-tier actress born in 95.

This resulted in various styling mishaps, infuriating fans who still doted on the young actress. They could only tagged the studio on Weibo to complain, demanding a complete overhaul of their idol's makeup and styling team…

Even her makeup and styling team probably never imagined that "they were just sitting at home when the blame fell on them," with the idol's capricious behavior ultimately making the makeup and styling team, who had very little involvement, take the fall...

All I can say is that this is exactly what fans do.

Gu Jingyi does this very well; he never interferes in professional fields.

At most, they might offer suggestions on hair color for stage makeup and styling, but they would never offer opinions on award ceremonies or costumes.

No matter how confident an artist is, can they compare to the expertise of professionals?
Makeup artists have the hardest job in the industry; they're always the ones getting criticized.

Gu Jingyi yawned, preparing to take a nap in the van to catch up on some rest.

Filming "Kuai Ge" wasn't particularly difficult, it was just a bit rushed.

Gu Jingyi had just finished filming last night and had only slept for four or five hours when Lin Ze dragged her to catch a plane.

He was so sleepy that his eyelids were drooping.

Lin Ze, who was about to discuss the endorsement deal, just sighed and said nothing after seeing this scene.

Actually, he was just about to tell Gu Jingyi that Prada was in contact with Cai Xukun.

It is said that if the evaluation period is over, Prada will give Cai Xukun a rather high title.

If Dior's global brand ambassador cannot be promoted to a lower-level position sooner next year, he would really rather take Gu Jingyi to another top luxury brand.

The only consolation is that by the end of July, the Asia-Pacific brand ambassador and the global brand ambassador are only a hair's breadth apart.

After "Ashes of Love" airs, he will fly to Dior headquarters to negotiate terms.

If a one-year trial period is truly necessary, then the only option left is for Gu Jingyi and Dior to end their relationship here…

Even before its release, "Ashes of Love" was already predicted by industry insiders to be a "hot hit" thanks to its star-studded cast.

Prada's offer to Cai Xukun will likely be delayed until about half a year from next year, once Cai Xukun's marketing team launches the "first global ambassador in a century for top-tier luxury brands."

Wouldn't Gu Jingyi be put at a disadvantage? As an agent whose fate is intertwined with Gu Jingyi's, Lin Ze wouldn't let that happen; he could always switch agencies.

There are several top luxury brands; if one doesn't work out, I'll just switch!
Let Kun Kun continue the "Prada curse"; Gu Jingyi will not get involved.

However, the honor of being the first global ambassador for a top-tier luxury brand can only be won by Gu Jingyi.

This is the highest title ever bestowed upon a "Chinese artist" at a top luxury brand event...

Although Chris is the global ambassador for both LV and Bulgari, he is not of pure Chinese descent.

He is Canadian and holds a green card there.

Chris has the advantage of nationality, making him more attractive to capital from that country.

Lin Ze glanced at Gu Jingyi, who was already asleep, and sighed.

Let him rest well. For a top star who has only been in the industry for a little over a year, securing a "Asia-Pacific Brand Ambassador" partnership with a major brand like Dior is already quite an achievement.

This endorsement by a top-tier luxury brand alone has opened many doors for Gu Jingyi in the fashion industry. Beyond the most obvious benefits—magazine covers and a surge in fashion resources—Gu Jingyi's prestige also surpasses that of many other celebrities.

This is 2018, and top-tier luxury brands have always been aloof and arrogant. They would give celebrities in the Chinese entertainment industry false titles like "brand ambassador for a specific region in China," making it easier for them to portray themselves as brand ambassadors in press releases.

For example, Dior's Chinese brand ambassadors in 2017, Xiaoli and Dabaobei.

However, they are very stingy with the titles that are truly widely promoted and recognized on external websites, such as "Brand Friend" and "Brand Ambassador".

Aside from Europe and America, this is the first time Dior has given such a high title in Asia.

Being able to sign endorsement contracts with top luxury brands also contributes to their status and prestige.

Gu Jingyi might not feel anything, but his fans certainly do.

In order to maintain the fanbase of celebrities, when the celebrity joins a new production or the series is not airing, their fans will organize premeditated online battles with other celebrities' fanbases, using these battles to manipulate and torment the fans.

The "Jingfei" (concubines) always have a united front when they argue, not to mention that Gu Jingyi is also known as the "first person born in the 95s to be involved in two top luxury brands".

Whenever "Jingfei" (a nickname for a celebrity) gets into a feud with another celebrity, all they have to do is mention this. The other side immediately falls silent. This is a recognition of the celebrity's influence and status within the industry.

These two luxury items alone have solidified Gu Jingyi's position as an undisputed top influencer.

According to the contract Gu Jingyi signed with Dior, he is required to wear clothing provided by Dior whenever he attends large formal occasions such as award ceremonies or press conferences, in order to generate exposure for the brand.

There are no restrictions on airport fashion and street style; you can wear your own clothes.

Gu Jingyi was startled by the fans who surrounded him as soon as he arrived at the hotel. Behind the cameras were faces with crazed expressions.

"Gu Jingyi, look at me!" "Jingyi, ahhh!"

A large crowd gathered, and security personnel formed a circle around Gu Jingyi.

Every step he took was incredibly difficult, with so many people around. Gu Jingyi couldn't respond to the fans' shouts as usual; the slightest misstep could lead to a stampede.

Gu Jingyi lowered his head and walked forward with unsteady steps.

Despite their reluctance, some fans still tried to break through security to deliver the letter to Gu Jingyi.

"I told you, don't rush forward anymore! Did you hear me?! Don't you understand safety?!"

The security personnel, their faces flushed, rebuked him angrily, their necks stiff with rage.

The fans were terrified, and tears welled up in their eyes as they almost cried.

Gu Jingyi frowned upon hearing this, but still couldn't help replying, "You can mail the letter to Huace; they have a special room for mail. I'll check it when I get to the company. Are you alright? Don't push anymore. There are so many people here; it's really dangerous."

"Waaah... I understand, Jingyi..."

The fan hadn't cried when security yelled at her, but after Gu Jingyi's comforting words, all the grievances and lingering fear from before surged up in a torrent of emotions.

“Jingyi!!!”

"You brat, you're so lucky!"

“Ahhh, Gu Jingyi!!”

Now the fans are even more excited.

The security team was having a bit of a headache, since the organizers had already arranged the highest level of security personnel for Gu Jingyi.

Gu Jingyi's popularity has exceeded expectations; the sheer number of top-tier celebrities is truly astounding.

Fortunately, they were only a short distance from the hotel. The security guards exchanged glances, gritted their teeth, and escorted Gu Jingyi into the hotel.

Lin Ze checked in quickly, and in no time he had the room key, along with his suitcase, and led Gu Jingyi to the elevator.

The organizers arranged an executive room for Gu Jingyi, although it wasn't as luxurious as the presidential suite. It was perfectly adequate for Gu Jingyi, who was only using it as a transit point. A "beep" sounded.

As soon as Gu Jingyi pushed open the door, the styling team had already been waiting in the room for a long time.

"Fortunately, we'll make it in time. Jingyi, you can try on a few more outfits from these."

"It's still Cody, who's been in charge of Gu Jingyi's styling all along," she said with a smile.

Dior sent over several outfits, all of which were haute couture pieces from the current season.

Gu Jingyi nodded, picked up the clothes, and went into an empty room. He tried on one piece after another, until he tried on the last one, a silver-gray haute couture suit.

Almost as soon as he pushed open the door and stepped out, everyone in the room forgot what they were doing. They stared blankly at that tall, handsome British figure, lost in thought.

"Do I look cool in this outfit?"

Gu Jingyi was amused by their exaggerated reactions; to be honest, he really had no idea about these things.

As someone with an ability to enhance his appearance, Gu Jingyi grew up surrounded by praise. He felt that he looked handsome in any clothes, with little difference between them.

Moreover, men's haute couture is mostly focused on suits, and the styles and designs are largely the same.

If there's any difference between these outfits, it's only in the color. The silver-gray satin fabric certainly looks quite flashy on a suit.

"Very handsome, he has a kind of Aaron Kwok vibe on stage."

Lin Ze glanced at him and spoke with a smile.

Today, Gu Jingyi has handsome features and a suit that, paired with a side-parted hairstyle, really gives off the vibe of a handsome man from Hong Kong's golden age.

I think I'm much more handsome than him.

Gu Jingyi remained noncommittal; he had never met any rivals in the industry, neither in height nor in looks.

No one has yet appeared who can put even a little pressure on him.

"But I still feel like something's missing."

Cody looked at Gu Jingyi with amazement in her eyes.

Her excellent professional skills led her to notice something was wrong, but she couldn't immediately pinpoint the source of the problem.

"How about wearing an accessory on the side of your chest?"

Gu Jingyi glanced at himself and asked tentatively.

"Yes! That's the problem."

Cody was quite excited, and she picked out several sets of accessories directly from the box she had prepared.

"Come on, Jingyi. There's still time, let's try a few more sets."

“But I can only wear Chopard jewelry,” Gu Jingyi said, somewhat taken aback by her suitcase. It was full of accessories; trying them all on would be too much trouble.

"I know, I'm holding a Chopin."

After trying on several outfits, Gu Jingyi finally chose an accessory to pin to her chest.

The chain dangled from the lapel of his suit jacket to his chest, giving him a rather dashing air. At that moment, Gu Jingyi looked like a prince straight out of a comic book, ready to appear at any party to find true love.

Gu Jingyi looked at himself in the mirror and was quite satisfied.

What a terrible guy! He's so handsome, what if he steals the readers' food?
The team was very satisfied, and Gu Jingyi's red carpet outfit was finally chosen.

Although it may seem casual, male celebrities really don't have that many requirements.

Female celebrities have it more complicated, as all the haute couture dresses require incredibly tiny waists. They have to lose weight months in advance, and some even wrap their waists in plastic wrap several times to shrink the fat and fit into the dresses…

When Gu Jingyi got into the business car and walked on the red carpet...

It instantly captured the attention of many photographers, with everyone shouting his name.

Gu Jingyi maintained a cool expression, showcasing his handsomeness from various angles. The final photos turned out quite well, and several sets of pictures went viral on Weibo even before the awards ceremony was over.

After returning to the inner area, he was guided by staff to his seat.

This year's Golden Bone Award for Online Film and Television is truly star-studded, featuring Luo Jin, Qi Wei, and Nezha.

Upon seeing Gu Jingyi arrive, they all became very interested in him. After chatting briefly, they exchanged contact information.

The awards ceremony was boring; it was just watching the host keep repeating his lines.

The most influential TV series of the year was "Story of Yanxi Palace", and the highest quality web series of the year was "Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace".

"Jingyi, why are you smiling?"

When Gu Jingyi saw that "Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace" won the annual award for best web series, he couldn't help but laugh.

"Nothing, I just suddenly thought of something funny."

When "Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace" becomes "The Great Ruyi's Royal Love in the Palace," then it will be your turn to lose face as the organizers.

Just as Gu Jingyi's back started to ache, it was time for his award to be presented.

After creating a tense atmosphere, Gu Jingyi won the award.

When he went on stage, his acceptance speech was very appropriate.

After the awards ceremony, Gu Jingyi went back to the hotel for a nap before taking a flight to Shanghai.

He was going to support Oda's first drama.
(End of this chapter)