How can you become a star without money?

Chapter 109 'Ancient Saint'

'Korea can't do without the three stars, and Hong Kong can't escape Chao-ren.'

When this statement appeared on major internet social media platforms in Hong Kong, it quickly resonated with locals.

This quote comes from a recent episode of the talk show "Keng Sanrenxing," where the topic was "Why does Hong Kong's development seem to have slowed down in recent years?" Two guests gave their answers.

One person said that it was because the Lai family, with their monopolistic oligarchies, had extinguished the vitality of the market and left no room for new things to emerge. Not long ago, someone posted a video on YouTube, vowing to survive in Hong Kong without using anything related to the Lai family.

The investigation revealed that the electricity, the land, and even the bottled water belonged to the Li family, leading to the immediate announcement that the challenge had failed.

Another person said that Lai Chiu-yan was alright, at most he was a landlord who collected rent from all of Hong Kong, but the second son of the Lai family was a tycoon. In the stock market, they were really ruthless. If they wanted to acquire a company, the stock price would basically plummet as soon as they made the move, and in the end, the retail investors would lose everything.

Almost overnight, news about the Li family spread across the internet, sparking countless discussions, but print media and other media outlets remained silent and did not report on it.

The very next day, numerous entertainment gossip items appeared on various social media platforms, including reposts of news about mainland figures such as Chen Hao and Fan Bingbing, quickly diverting public attention.

Everyone assumed that this was just a random trending topic generated by the show's promotional efforts.

However, unlike Hong Kong's interest in the negative rumors surrounding the Lai family, the mainland entertainment industry has its own news.

Before netizens could even finish being shocked by Fan Bingbing's speech, and before the gossip about "Cheng Tian's Harem" was fully digested, the online series "Forty Years of Movie History" released a new episode.

This episode's science topic is "Nothing can tarnish Gu Tianle's reputation except the sun."

In 2010, Koo Tien-lok's popularity in mainland China was not top-tier, and he couldn't compare with Jackie Chan, Chow Yun-fat, and Andy Lau. However, due to his numerous appearances in comedy films, he was a well-known actor with a good public image.

Although he has acted in most bad movies, at least his character portrayals are not problematic, so he has always been mediocre in mainland China.

This post quickly sparked heated discussions after it was published.

The first half of the post introduces Gu Tianle's life story, including stories such as his experience of using a sewing machine in his youth, and his film and television evaluations such as being praised by Leslie Cheung as having a successor.

He then changed the subject, introducing that his status in the Hong Kong film and television industry was no less than that of Andy Lau and others, but he had a completely different life from ordinary stars. He didn't have luxury cars or watches, or even mansions. He had been famous for almost 20 years and still lived with his parents in an old house of just over 60 square meters. Many of his friends in the industry joked that he was stingy.

But this stingy person has always insisted on doing volunteer work. Perhaps because of his childhood experiences, Gu Tianle attaches great importance to youth public welfare.

In 07, he even became a "Goodwill Ambassador" appointed by the UNICEF Foundation. From 07 to 10, he donated 50 water cellars to Hexi and established the Sunshine Primary School Fund. Currently, he has donated to build 17 schools, and plans to donate 15 more schools every year in the future, bringing hope of education to remote and impoverished areas.

The post detailed the location of each school, emphasizing that Gu Tianle personally oversaw the construction of these projects, and even wrote his organization's contact information on the school walls, so that any quality issues could be reported directly.

According to the poster's estimate, Gu Tianle's investment in public welfare over the years is close to ten million yuan, which is probably close to 60% of his income in his performing career.

During the great disaster two years ago, he used his influence to raise $2000 million in donations from the UN.

However, Gu Tianle never publicized these public welfare activities; he just quietly did his work.

They even praised him as "a rare artist in the entertainment industry who has transcended lowbrow tastes."

With its inflammatory writing, powerful story, and radiant humanity, the post undoubtedly sparked rapid discussion.

This has naturally sparked a lot of speculation among netizens, who believe that celebrities do charity work for fame, tax avoidance, and so on.

But soon, the Hong Kong industry professionals who had previously made cameo appearances in Wang Jing's "I really like it" incident stood up again to defend Gu Tianle.

Gu Tianle's charity work wasn't limited to mainland China; he was already doing volunteer work in Hong Kong in the 1990s. Even if he were acting, he wouldn't have been doing it for twenty years.

In addition, Koo Tin Lok has provided retirement assistance to many veteran artists in the Hong Kong film and television industry and has provided support and help to new actors. Artists in the Hong Kong film and television industry are relatively selfish and unwilling to mentor newcomers, but Koo Tin Lok often gives newcomers opportunities.

Netizens were once again in an uproar, sparking even greater controversy.

Finally, Wang Jing replied to the post, setting the tone for Gu Tianle.

Wang Jing V: Louis Koo is someone I don't understand at all, but when it comes to public morality, the entire entertainment industry combined certainly wouldn't match his sincerity. Although we haven't worked together much...
In my early years, when I made bad movies, nobody paid attention to me. Everyone was careful about their reputation. Only this guy thought the same way as me and came to the mainland to find work for our Hong Kong colleagues.

I certainly don't deserve the title of 'savior of Hong Kong films,' but he is definitely a 'lighthouse for Hong Kong films,' illuminating the future and warming the hearts of those who came before.

Wang Jing's high praise effectively 'deified' Gu Tianle.

Subsequently, the meme "Gu Tianle remains silent, just quietly making films and donating money" quickly spread.

The title "Ancient Sage" quickly swept across major social media platforms, even overshadowing the popularity of Fan Bingbing and others.

Incidentally, the entire Chinese entertainment industry was also ridiculed by netizens. They said Hong Kong celebrities do far more good deeds than all of them! All they do is create scandals!
An hour after trending on social media, Gu Tianle himself registered and verified accounts on various platforms and posted his first Weibo post.

Gu Tianle V: Thank you for the recognition from netizens and colleagues, but charity is a private matter. Everyone has different hobbies, and there is no high or low status. My donation to schools is actually a process of healing my childhood, because my childhood was not happy.

Now that I have the ability, I don't want these bad things to happen to others. Ultimately, I'm really short of money, and I hope mainland business owners will give me more opportunities to start businesses.

In less than half an hour, Gu Tianle's fan base grew to over one million and continues to grow, generating numerous topics such as "People work hard to heal their childhood selves" and "A roundup of celebrity charity work."

The ongoing crackdown on juvenile delinquency has only affected some celebrities.

However, Gu Tianle is likely to trigger a new wave of 'charity storm,' which will indiscriminately affect all public figures.

Just as netizens were excitedly starting to "check the accounts" and the celebrities were trembling with fear.

Under the guidance of Wang Jing, Wang Yao recently signed an agreement with Louis Koo to establish "One Under Heaven Studio," holding a 60% stake. The studio is registered under the name of "Spark Cooperative" and will be responsible for some of Louis Koo's business collaborations in the future.

"Mr. Wang, it's a pleasure to cooperate with you." Gu Tianle signed the contract, glanced at his rapidly growing fan base, and extended his hand with a sigh.

Two days ago, Wang Jing took the initiative to contact him, saying that a big shot in the mainland had specifically asked to promote him. He was somewhat dismissive, after all, he was a sought-after figure and had cooperated with many large and small capitals over the years, but the word "promote" was a bit of an exaggeration.

After all, he felt that with his current situation, if he were to be promoted any further, he would surpass the likes of Andy Lau and Chow Yun-fat. He was a very self-aware person and did not think any company had that kind of ability.

However, out of consideration for Wang Jing, he still agreed to meet with her.

Upon seeing Wang Yao, Gu Tianle felt even more absurd. If he had worked harder to have a son earlier, he might be older than this boy now.

Was Wang Jing, that old man, scammed?

But the cooperation plan that Wang Yao soon proposed surprised Gu Tianle, not because the plan would have much impact on his acting career.

Rather, this plan seems to have restructured and reorganized his life path.

"Simply donating schools isn't enough. It's said that we can't repay those who raised us, but goodwill can backfire if it doesn't create a closed loop. Our collaboration can create a closed loop for the entire public welfare system, integrating education and employment to form an internal cycle, rather than simply turning donations into consumption."

After Wang Yao, a young man, explained to Gu Tianle the model of using public welfare as a way to coordinate social resources, Gu Tianle completely let go of his arrogance.

He himself knew that by donating money, even if he worked himself to the bone every year to make movies, he could only influence the lives of a few hundred or a thousand children at most.

However, if Wang Yao's method is used, the influence can be expanded by at least 2 to 3 times, and as time goes by, these sponsored children will give back and bring even more value.

The concept of 'allowing good to circulate' amazed Gu Tianle.

In particular, Wang Yao's ability to transform himself from a low-profile artist into a well-known philanthropist in just two days directly proves his strength.

Gu Tianle used to be very averse to using charity as a gimmick. Firstly, he believed that one should do good deeds without worrying about the future, and secondly, he felt that a charity persona could easily offend people and be morally blackmailed.

However, if he could gain more value by being morally blackmailed, then he wouldn't care, because he is essentially someone who doesn't care about his reputation, and could even be described as somewhat idealistic.

He was naturally happy to find a fellow traveler who shared his idealism and was willing to do good deeds.

What impressed him most about this collaboration was that Wang Yao would allocate 50% of his share of the profits to the company's "educational fund," supporting all students sponsored by the Gutianle Charity School in their future university education and providing them with priority employment opportunities after graduation.

Wang Yao restructured Gu Tianle's career path. 【Tianxia Yi】, the studio, is not just a talent agency, but a cultural and creative company integrating film and television post-production, graphic design, and artist management. The future development of the cultural and creative industry will create a significant demand for related professionals, requiring numerous job opportunities. The schools Gu Tianle sponsors will also begin training in these related fields from middle school onwards, such as writing, drawing, and post-production rendering. Students can even take on part-time jobs at the studio during high school to supplement their income and become self-reliant, gradually moving away from single-sponsorship and ensuring future employment.

Gu Tianle strongly agrees with the 'family-style philanthropy' model.

"I told you long ago, Yao is very capable. Don't look down on young people. It's the era of the young now," Wang Jing said with a smile.

He was happy to be able to bring the two of them together, after all, Koo Tin-lok was a promising hope for the Hong Kong entertainment circle that he had high hopes for. Most importantly, this kid was different from those who cherished their reputations like Andy Lau.

Gu Tianle's biggest advantage is that he is not picky about jobs. As long as it does not violate his bottom line, he will take any job. Wang Jing needs such a famous and professional collaborator.

"It's an honor for Xinghuo that Brother Le is willing to cooperate. This year, we will strive to become one of the male artists with the highest commercial value in the industry." Wang Yao smiled gently.

This collaboration with Gu Tianle is equivalent to indirectly completing the subsequent publicity work for Berna. The quality of "The King of Guns" plus Gu Tianle's popularity can maximize the buzz.

"But isn't 'ancient saint' a bit too exaggerated?" Gu Tianle was still a little embarrassed by this persona.

"If netizens are making all sorts of noise, just don't take it seriously yourself," Wang Jing said with a laugh.

“As long as you donate enough money, great scholars will surely debate with you.” Wang Yao smiled and shook his head. “Besides, there will be news that overshadows yours.”

"That's good." Gu Tianle smiled.

Just as news about Gu Tianle was flying everywhere, another news item popped up on Myspace: 'Liang Luoshi's dream of marrying into a wealthy family shattered; she dumped after being dumped by her boyfriend.'

This news was reposted from an external website. The content is that the second son of the Li family has been entangled with Liang Luoshi for many years and even had a child with her, but he has not been recognized by the Li family. They have publicly stated that Li Chaoren does not agree to the relationship. The combination of a female celebrity and a rich young man is naturally news that the public enjoys.

As a result, Leung Lok-sze became famous in China and became the subject of many discussions. However, this news confirms that Leung Lok-sze is pregnant with twins, and it is very likely that they are both boys. She is currently resting abroad and will be due in two months.

At this time, the news that she married into a wealthy family despite having three children still not being recognized by her father-in-law, coupled with yesterday's scandals involving Fan Bingbing, Chen Hao, and others with their boss, is definitely a bombshell, at least a feast for all entertainment media.

This is tantamount to indirectly shattering the dreams of countless female celebrities who wanted to marry into wealthy families and rise to prominence.

However, each platform has different characteristics. On Sina Weibo, these posts are full of sarcasm and belittling of female celebrities as mere actors, while on Myspace, there is a wave of contempt for the heartless and ungrateful men from wealthy families, and heartache for the female celebrities who have given up on themselves.

She already has beauty and a career, and she earns a lot of money on her own, so why does she still want to be a nanny for a rich second-generation?
The public's respect for Gu Tianle's character is far less than the entertainment value of gossip, especially since the famous Li family is also involved. This is not just an internet frenzy; even offline media outlets have started to get involved.

Yang Tianzhen extended a formal invitation to Wang Yao on behalf of Fan Bingbing, ostensibly to invite him to a housewarming party at the villa Fan Bingbing had just bought.

Calling it a villa isn't quite accurate; it's more like a small, private estate.

"Wow, Mr. Wang, you've made me have more followers than Yao Chen with just one Weibo post." Fan Bingbing greeted Wang Yao as he entered and offered him a pair of slippers.

The heating inside was on full blast, and Fan Bingbing was dressed casually and lightly, wearing only a loose and relaxed sweatshirt on her upper body and bare legs.

"Congratulations on your housewarming, Miss Fan. I brought some inexpensive daily necessities with me." Wang Yao smiled and handed over the small box he had brought.

"Just come, what gifts do you need? Oh, they're really nothing special." Fan Bingbing smiled and opened the package, only to find that it contained toilet paper, including rolls, tissues, and wet wipes.

She's really a practical person.

Fan Bingbing was at a loss for words when she tried to complain.

"Mr. Wang is here? Wait for my last two dishes." Yang Tianzhen popped her head out from the kitchen and greeted him.

"Shall I show you around?" Fan Bingbing put down her suitcase and tucked her long hair behind her ear.

"Is it convenient? I hope I won't get lost." Wang Yao looked around the first floor, which he estimated to be over 300 square meters.

"There's nothing we can do, we female celebrities are just so vain. We have to buy big houses when we earn money. We can't compare to selfless people like President Wang," Fan Bingbing joked with a grin.

Leading Wang Yao into the elevator inside the building, he introduced each floor to Wang Yao, explaining that there were six floors in total, including a master bedroom area, a guest bedroom area, an office area, a sports area, and an outdoor garden pool on the top floor.

"That's great, this is what life is all about," Wang Yao exclaimed, turning his gaze away from Fan Bingbing's pink-themed bedroom area.

“It’s not expensive. It’ll cost less than 40 million including renovations. I have two buildings next door that haven’t been sold yet. Would you like to be my neighbor, Mr. Wang?” Fan Bingbing smiled, her eyes darting across Wang Yao’s face as she observed his expression.

"Forget it, I'd be scared to live in such a big house by myself. If I ever want to experience life, I can ask Miss Fan to let me stay here for a while," Wang Yao said with a smile.

"Tsk, Mr. Wang is really reckless. You dare to stay at my house? Aren't you afraid of rumors flying everywhere tomorrow?" Fan Bingbing raised an eyebrow slightly.

"What impact will the rumors have on me? I don't make money from popularity," Wang Yao said with a smile.

"I really envy you bosses," Fan Bingbing said with a charming smile.

“If Miss Fan wants to be a boss, you can invest, and I’ll work for you,” Wang Yao glanced at her.

"Forget it. Many of my friends run companies, and they work so hard but still don't make any money. I'm afraid of trouble." Fan Bingbing shook her head, and the two returned to the restaurant on the first floor, where she put her hair up with a hair accessory.

She's almost thirty, yet she looks like a young girl; it seems that rosy cheeks really do have a good effect.

"Is Mr. Wang single?" Fan Bingbing suddenly changed the subject, turning to meet a pair of scrutinizing eyes, and her heart tightened immediately.

"Yes." Wang Yao smiled.

"If you don't have a proper relationship in college, you'll regret it after you graduate," Fan Bingbing said with a light laugh.

"It sounds like Miss Fan has quite a few regrets," Wang Yao said with a smile.

"There's nothing I can do. When I was young, I was too career-oriented and wanted to seize every opportunity. Later, when I had more time, I found that I couldn't have a normal relationship at all," Fan Bingbing said with a smile.

"I've heard that the prerequisite for a normal relationship is that the people involved are normal," Wang Yao said with a smile.

"You think I'm abnormal?" Fan Bingbing's eyes lit up, with a slightly fierce look.

“I mean, none of the men who get close to you are normal,” Wang Yao shook his head.

"Haha, that's the truth." Fan Bingbing was stunned for a moment, then laughed somewhat uncontrollably.

"What are you chatting about so happily?" Yang Tianzhen brought the dishes over.

"It's nothing, come and eat, the guests are all hungry," Fan Bingbing said as she sat down.

"Mr. Wang, do you drink?" Yang Tianzhen picked up the decanter.

"No, I'll just have juice," Wang Yao said with a smile.

"Is it that you can't drink or don't want to drink? If you drink too much, I'll have the driver take you home," Fan Bingbing said with a smile.

"I don't want to drink. I've been busy lately," Wang Yao said decisively.

Fan Bingbing was a heavy drinker and was about to continue urging Wang to drink more, but Yang Tianzhen stopped him, saying, "President Wang, try my cooking."

Actually, most of the dishes on the table are expensive seafood or soups, cold dishes, and braised meats that are obviously not homemade. The purpose is to eat slowly, have drinks, and chat casually.

Wang Yao doesn't drink, and Yang Tianzhen certainly doesn't either, leaving only Fan Bingbing drinking. After two cups, her cheeks turned red, which added a touch of charm.

Yang Tianzhen ignored her, seemingly used to it, and simply steered the conversation toward Fan Bingbing's persona.

“Actually, there’s a good opportunity right now,” Wang Yao said.

“Liang Luoshi?” Yang Tianzhen’s eyes gleamed.

　感谢一个大逗号、布丁丶绿茶、四碟花生、问纸、龙王123777、卡拉肖克波、空尘.、夜夜读书、未一业、joy丶安、忍耐力、猫月8888888、书友20220506235222539、书友20170518170041611、书友11021014423791、书友20230409291_Ec、书友20200218174847330的月票支持！~万分感谢
　　
　
(End of this chapter)