Top Chinese celebrity: Debuted from Running Man

……

……

"Checking my phone while slacking off, and the house's gone?"

"Haha, my brother is clearly in a terrible situation, so why do I feel like laughing?"

"Upstairs, you're not alone. Your brother is really in a terrible situation."

"I feel so sorry for Gu Qing. I never expected that the company he works for is full of bloodsuckers. He's been put on the wanted list as a deadbeat. It's terrifying."

"Do any of you sisters know what impact losing the company will have on your brother?"

"This will have a huge impact! From now on, my brother will have to earn all of his film and television fees by himself. (doge)"

"The case is solved! This is the truth! The shady company ran away, and all the money went to the younger brother. He's won big!"

……

Gu Qing's clarification announcement, tinged with helplessness and self-deprecation, quickly went viral online.

Xu Wei, the public relations manager of his studio, is extremely adept at sensing trends. By contacting familiar channels, several trending search terms were quickly arranged for him to appear on the hot search list.
'Gu Qing—what a pitiful man.'

'Gu Qing opened her phone and the sky fell down…'

Gu Qing: I just finished filming, and my home is gone.

The three trending topics were positioned neither too high nor too low, hovering precisely in the middle of the list, using a slightly humorous and relatable approach.
This "debt defaulter" scandal, which could have originally been a matter of concern for the artist's own reputation, was cleverly turned into a "worker's outrageous experience" that attracted nationwide attention.

Gu Qing's experience of "working diligently on set, only to have his company vanish without a trace" was full of absurd comedic effect, greatly diluting the negative aspects of the incident and instead winning him a surge of sympathy and goodwill from the public.

Netizens were amused, but also felt that the younger brother had a bit of a "traitorous" quality.

"Hahaha, what an incredibly unlucky guy!"

"Put yourself in that shoes. If I worked hard overtime for a month, only to find out later that the company had been dissolved and the boss had run away, I would probably faint."

"My brother is really pitiful, but it's also really funny. This experience could be written into a script and acted out."

A top-tier celebrity was working hard on set, hoping to generate revenue for his company. But when he looked up, the company was gone, along with his chair. He almost got himself labeled a defaulter by the collapsing "signboard".

The plot is full of twists and turns, brimming with dramatic tension, and is more exciting than many clichéd scripts.

Those in the industry, especially major companies, artist teams, and marketing accounts, are looking at the inside story.

"Gu Qing's team's reaction speed is amazing."

"This is a classic case of crisis management. There was no hard whitewashing or sob story. They resolved the situation with self-deprecation and a down-to-earth approach, and even generated some reverse marketing. The team leader is exceptional."

"I heard that the person in charge is named Xu Wei. He used to work in several large companies and is very sensitive to public opinion on the Internet."

"This approach is low-cost and effective, and we can learn from it when we encounter similar situations in the future. However, the premise is that the artist himself has no substantial scandals and can withstand investigation."

nowadays,
More and more celebrities are realizing the importance of public relations and marketing.

In the old days of newspapers, celebrity scandals and negative stories could be easily suppressed without worrying about being blacklisted or criticized by the audience for moral issues.

However, with the advent of the internet traffic era in 14,

Celebrities' personal images are magnified a hundred or a thousand times under the spotlight, and even the slightest moral flaw can lead to a huge public relations crisis.

In the past, Hong Kong stars could openly smoke, drink, and talk about being a mistress and interfering in other people's relationships on TV shows...

Even cases of taking the blame for someone else can cause a huge uproar, yet they still manage to remain active on screen.

Back then, fans and audiences felt that such artists were authentic, attractive, and outspoken.

But the problem is,
Today's fans and audiences will not allow current celebrities to do the same thing.

A simple eye roll or a cold face can jeopardize a career and cause a massive loss of fans.

You still dare to imitate others by drinking and smoking on TV shows?

Not to mention those things that violate moral values ​​and ethical principles, which they talk about freely on the show.

One by one, they die!
Even if someone has powerful connections and can return to the screen, their popularity will plummet.

Audiences cannot tolerate artists with bad records or flaws.

But that doesn't mean the fans and viewers are wrong.

In the past, being a celebrity was considered a low-class profession, and even some intellectuals from middle-class families looked down on singers and dancers who posed and danced on stage.

But now?

If top-tier celebrities really put in their full effort and work hard to make money, accepting any advertisement and filming any drama, the actual economic benefits they generate in a year can reach at least one billion!

This kind of business has no investment risk whatsoever; the money is earned honestly and used with a clear conscience.

and,

They can also use their influence to make investments and do business, easily making a fortune.

In terms of earning power, ordinary wealthy people are really no match for top-tier celebrities and A-list stars.

After all, in the internet age, traffic equals money.

This is why many celebrities, after their salaries skyrocketed in 14, have started to get married within the industry rather than trying to marry into wealthy families as they used to.

Because ordinary wealthy families don't actually earn as much as two celebrity couples.

In the lower and middle classes, celebrities are even more glamorous, possessing a cold and aloof demeanor and a sense of superiority, even appearing as 'superior' to others.

They are idols that countless teenagers are obsessed with, and it is necessary to hold celebrities to a high moral standard.

Regardless of your private life, you must present a positive and optimistic image on screen, conveying healthy and correct values ​​to your young fans.

……

"Now that Gu Qing's company is gone, doesn't that mean he's a free man?"

"He's definitely a free agent now, so his original agency contract is naturally void. Quick, find a way to contact him, even just to establish a communication channel!"

"Contact? What can we do to contact him? Can we offer better terms than he could do it himself?"

"Having finally broken free of his shackles, would he willingly put them back on? He has connections and traffic now."

"A personal studio. He will definitely announce the establishment of a personal studio within three days at most."

What we should be thinking about now isn't how to sign him, but how to establish a good working relationship with his future studio and secure investment shares or distribution rights for his projects.

The industry's predictions were entirely accurate.

Even less than three days,

On the afternoon of the second day after the incident escalated, the official blog, WeChat account, and other matrix accounts of "Gu Qing Studio" quietly went online, with clear and concise introductions and quick verification.

The original agency's label was completely replaced, and a brand new brand identity that belongs entirely to Gu Qing was officially unveiled.

The establishment of a personal studio is not just a change of name, but also signifies a complete reshaping of the business model.

Most of the cooperation agreements that were originally signed with brands, platforms, and project owners need to be renegotiated and signed under a new entity—Gu Qing Studio.

Why are top artists flocking to set up their own studios?

The primary and most practical point is fiscal and tax optimization.

The "income from labor services" can be automatically converted to "income from business operations" through a sole proprietorship.

The tax rate may be reduced by about 5%, which would save a lot of costs compared to the current personal income tax rate of up to 45%.

A legal 5% tax reduction can amount to a substantial sum over a year.

As for other aspects:

Increased autonomy in one's career: Freedom from the constraints of agency contracts, and the freedom to independently select film and television scripts and endorsement activities.

And the ability to systematically operate a personal brand.

This is also the greatest help to artists.

The studio can serve as a dedicated operating entity, centrally managing image building, fan communities, and IP development to enhance brand recognition and long-term value.

In other words,
Gu Qing has completely reclaimed the "right to use" and "right to benefit" from her name, and every step she takes in the future is truly in her own control.

In order to handle the myriad of matters such as future fan management, public image building, IP development path, and team expansion.

Gu Qing and her core team held closed-door meetings for two consecutive days. From legal and financial matters to publicity and execution, every aspect was repeatedly scrutinized.

Once the general framework was finalized and recruitment for urgently needed positions began, Gu Qing was finally able to breathe a sigh of relief.

By this time, three days had quietly passed.

With his work finished, Gu Qing didn't dare to delay for a moment and immediately rushed back to the "Riding the Waves" film crew.

As soon as the car entered the highway, my phone vibrated, indicating that I had received a new message.

The sender was the producer of "Love O2O".

"Little brother, great news! 'Love O2O' has officially been scheduled to air on Huangguo TV, starting next week, with two episodes airing every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night. It will also be available on online platforms at the same time!"

"The specific publicity arrangements have been sent to your email."

This Saturday night, all the main creators need to gather in Shenzhen to attend the premiere press conference.

The hotel address and schedule are attached. Please arrive a day in advance to prepare.

Gu Qing looked at the screen, somewhat surprised.

"Airing next week? That soon?"

From the time he finished filming until now, it's only been a month and a half at most. Completing post-production, passing censorship, and scheduling in such a short time is incredibly efficient.

This is certainly related to the recent trend of "replenishing grain" in the industry.

With many affected dramas being pulled from their schedules, platforms and TV stations urgently need high-quality content to fill the gaps, naturally accelerating the production of already completed dramas.

"Hopefully the quality won't be affected by the rushed production..."

A trace of worry flashed through Gu Qing's mind, but she quickly calmed down.

He had confidence in the professionalism of the production team and post-production crew, even though the one-and-a-half-month post-production period was tight.

But it's not an impossible task; the key is whether you put your heart into it.

Moreover, the channel scheduled for this broadcast is Huangguo TV – the absolute leader among domestic satellite TV channels.

In previous lives,
Huangguo TV did not compete for the rights; Dongfang TV acquired the rights to "Love O2O".

This cannot be blamed on Huang Guo.
However, the ratings for Yang Di's shows "Whirlwind Girl" and "The Four Great Constables" on Huangguo TV's Diamond Exclusive Theater were only so-so.

It's not terrible, but it's definitely not a hit drama.

Huang Guo was clearly utterly disappointed, which is why Dongfang TV successfully snatched up the opportunity. But now,
Because of Gu Qing's small butterfly wings, several consecutive hit dramas have long proven her strength.

With Huang Guo's relentless competition, Dongfang TV was naturally no match.

With the support of the country's largest TV station, plus its own traffic and public goodwill.

Gu Qing felt that the ratings for "Love O2O" would be significantly higher than its predecessor.

……

"Luckily, I'm also an investor, otherwise I would feel really embarrassed to take so many days off."

Gu Qing put away her phone and looked at the scenery rushing past the window, feeling somewhat relieved.

The car smoothly drove into the hotel area where the film crew was staying.

As soon as Gu Qing entered the parking lot, he saw a familiar scene: next to the G18 minivans rented by the film crew, a group of people, led by driver Master Wang, were "busy" with hoses and oil drums.

Hearing the car, Mr. Wang looked up and met Gu Qing's gaze as she got out of the car.

His hand trembled, and the hose almost fell to the ground. A smile, a mixture of embarrassment and enthusiasm, instantly spread across his face.

"Mr. Gu...Mr. Gu! You're back?"

"Master Wang, are you busy?"

Gu Qing smiled, his gaze sweeping over the equipment, a knowing look on his face.

"Oh dear, Teacher Gu, please don't make fun of us."

Master Wang quickly hid the things behind his back, vigorously wiped his hands on his pants, and jogged over to greet him. He familiarly pulled out a cigarette case from his pocket, "You must be tired from your journey. Here, have a smoke to relax?"

"Thanks, Master Wang, but I don't smoke."

Gu Qing smiled and waved her hand. To avoid making the other person feel rejected, she even reached into her pocket to indicate that her hands were empty.

"Oh dear, what a terrible memory I have!"

Master Wang suddenly realized something and slapped his forehead. He quickly took the cigarette he had just put in his mouth and put it back in the cigarette case. "I forgot that you are my idol, Teacher Gu. I have to be mindful of my image, hehe."

He rubbed his hands together and followed Gu Qing into the hotel, taking the initiative to report on his "work": "Teacher Gu, the film crew has been quite lively these past few days while you were gone."

Every day, your fans loiter around the neighborhood, peeking out, just hoping to see if you're there.

"Fans?" Gu Qing slowed her pace.

"That's right! Just a couple of days ago, a group of fans said they wanted to send a coffee truck to everyone as a support gift, with drinks and snacks all prepared!"
"I've worked on film sets for so many years, and this is the first time I've ever seen such a large and thoughtful fan group," said Master Wang, his face beaming with excitement.

Upon hearing this, Gu Qing's brows furrowed almost imperceptibly:
"The production crew...accepted it?"

"No, no! Absolutely not!"

Seeing the situation clearly, Master Wang immediately stopped smiling and waved his hands repeatedly, saying, "Teacher Deng Chao happened to be there at the time. He spoke to the fans, saying that you never accept expensive gifts from them."
This kind of support is not encouraged. We appreciate everyone's good intentions, but we absolutely cannot accept the gifts. We should also say that you've been busy with work and aren't in the group lately.

He paused, then added, "Teacher Chao is so good at talking. He took photos with the fans, signed autographs, and chatted with them. The girls were so happy, and they left happily, taking their things back with them."

Gu Qing's tightly furrowed brows finally relaxed.

Brother Chao understands him best. He handled the situation appropriately and thoughtfully, without causing fans to spend money or disappointing them.

He turned to his assistant Zhao Ya, who was following behind him, and said, "Sister Xiao Ya, could you please contact them and order some milk tea and fruit?"

"Please choose a variety of items; it's on me. We'll deliver them to the film set for afternoon tea."

"Master Wang, do you have any dietary restrictions?" Gu Qing then looked at the driver next to her.

"Oh, Teacher Gu, you're too kind. We're just simple folks; we can drink and eat anything, we don't have any dietary restrictions!"

Master Wang was flattered, and his smile became even brighter.

the other side,
"Okay, boss, I'll order it right away." Zhao Yali readily agreed and took out her phone to start operating.

Back in her hotel room, Gu Qing settled in briefly.

Director Han Han and Deng Chao, among others, are still filming on location and are expected to return in the evening.

He intended to look at the script first and sort out the upcoming scenes, but before he had even sat down, there was a gentle knock on the door.

"Who?"

Gu Qing got up and opened the door.

The first thing to peek in was director Han Han's face, which carried a hint of mystery and nervousness.

"Director Han?" Gu Qing was taken aback.

"Sh-!"

Han Han immediately raised his index finger to signal silence, then, like a thief, quickly glanced left and right down the corridor to make sure no one was there.

He then slipped inside and gently closed the door behind him.

"Brother Han, what's wrong? Why are you being so mysterious?"

Gu Qing found his series of actions somewhat amusing.

Han Han, however, didn't bother to explain. He lowered his voice and asked urgently, "Little brother, you haven't told Tai Lang about your return yet, have you?"

"No, I just got to my room and haven't contacted anyone yet."

Gu Qing was baffled by his question.

"Very good!!"

Han Han clapped his hands in surprise. He pressed Gu Qing's arm and said, "Don't tell Tai Lang. There's a scene this afternoon. I have a new idea. I want to arrange for you and Li Ying to mess with Tai Lang."

"What idea?"

Gu Qing was curious.

"That's it..."

Han Han gave a rather wicked explanation.

"No way, director, this is too perverted."

Gu Qing shook her head vigorously, "What if it gives Brother Chao psychological trauma?"

"How could that be? We're just acting, not doing anything else."

Han Han gently persuaded him, "Chao isn't that fragile. Hasn't he always been in good health?"

"No, no, let's just say it outright."

Gu Qing still resisted.

"Oh dear, little brother..."

Han Han started pulling and tugging.

"Click~"

The tightly closed door suddenly opened.

"Brother~brother...?"

Zhao Liying's delighted face froze, and the room key she was holding fell to the ground.

Her round, almond-shaped eyes were wide open, filled with shock, bewilderment, and a stunned disorientation as if her worldview had been shattered.

She saw that Director Han Han was holding Gu Qing's arm tightly, their bodies very close. Gu Qing had a helpless smile on her face, while Director Han looked "eager"...

Han Han? Gu Qing?

In my brother's room?
The door is still closed?

Pulling and tugging?

Zhao Liying's brain CPU instantly overloaded, and countless outrageous rumors that she had heard in the entertainment industry but never thought would happen to Gu Qing popped up.

She had considered that Gu Qing's charm would attract many admirers, drawing a group of vixens like moths to a flame.

But Sister Zhao never imagined that there were men among them!

Little Zhao's sister was devastated: "Little brother, you've come out of the closet?!"

"Liying, don't misunderstand!!"

Han Han was startled. His hands, which were pressing on Gu Qing's shoulders, jerked away as if he had been electrocuted. He explained incoherently, "I came to explain the play to my younger brother."

"Director, are you here to read the script too?"

Sister Zhao looked ashen-faced.

Gu Qing leaned against the wall, rubbing his forehead and forcing a bitter smile.

"Gu Qing, you bastard, say something!!"

Han Han was frantic with worry.

in the end,
Director Han's mouth was dry from explaining; he was practically ready to personally bring his wife over to their bridal chamber.

Sister Zhao reluctantly accepted it with some skepticism.

"Don't just talk about me, Liying, how did you get the room key to your brother's room?"

Han Han noticed the blind spot and questioned, "Didn't you say you were all in your room reading the script?"

"Yes, I read the script in my brother's room, so there's no conflict."

Zhao Liying took it for granted and sat down on the sofa, starting to touch Gu Qing all over to check his physical condition.

"Sister Liying, there are still people here."

Gu Qing looked helpless and pressed down on the slender hand that was about to slip into her collar. "Director Han just said he wanted us to prank Brother Chao. What do you think?"

He repeated Han Han's proposal.

"Of course! I've wanted to mess with Brother Chao for ages!!"

Upon hearing this, Sister Zhao was overjoyed and said maliciously, "It would be best if he were so frightened that he would be devastated and the Empress would be a widow!"

Gu Qing: "..."

Han Han: "..."

The most poisonous thing... is a woman's heart!
……

...(End of chapter)