China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 57 Week of 30 June 2025
(1) Renowned Hong Kong-based Food Critic Chua Lam Dies at Age 83
Chua Lam, the celebrated food critic, columnist, and film producer, passed away at 83, leaving behind a legacy in Hong Kong’s culinary and entertainment scenes through his writing, television work, and passion for gastronomy.
(2) Song Jia Won Top Honors at 30th Shanghai TV Festival
Jin Dong and Song Jia won Best Actor and Best Actress at the 30th Shanghai TV Festival for their acclaimed roles in “Northwest Years” and “When the Flowers Bloom,” respectively.
(3) Hong Kong Police Foil Fake Ticket Syndicate Targeting Jay Chou Concerts
Hong Kong police arrested two suspects and seized over 1,000 counterfeit tickets worth HK$2 million for Jay Chou’s sold-out concerts, disrupting a local syndicate’s fraudulent operation.
(4) “Jurassic World: Rebirth” Premieres in China with Star-Studded Red Carpet and Roaring Fanfare
The China premiere of “Jurassic World: Rebirth” dazzled Shanghai with its star-studded red carpet, fan-favorite cast, and thrilling behind-the-scenes stories, setting the stage for a blockbuster summer.
(5) Salty Pictures and Damai Entertainment Launch First Look Deal with Chinese Adaptation of Thai Hit “Not Friends”
Hong Kong’s Salty Pictures and China’s Damai Entertainment have teamed up to produce a Mandarin-language adaptation of Thailand’s Oscar-submitted film “Not Friends,” marking the start of a new slate of globally appealing, Chinese-rooted films.
(6) Golden Harvest Exits Hong Kong Cinema Market
Golden Harvest has officially ended its cinema operations in Hong Kong, closing its final outlets and marking the end of a historic era in the city’s film industry.
(7) Hong Kong Star Chow Yun Fat to Headline Star Awards 2025
Hong Kong cinema legend Chow Yun Fat will present at Singapore’s 30th Star Awards, marking his return to the event where he first appeared in 1994.
(8) Jay Chou Meets Stephen Chow Secretly in Hong Kong, Hinting at Potential Collaboration
Jay Chou and Stephen Chow sparked excitement with a surprise meeting in Hong Kong, hinting at a possible collaboration on Chow’s upcoming film “Shaolin Women’s Soccer”.
(9) Hong Kong Disneyland Kicks Off 20th Anniversary with Grand Parade and Global Fanfare
Hong Kong Disneyland launched its 20th anniversary celebrations with a vibrant parade featuring over 30 Disney characters, drawing enthusiastic crowds and international visitors.
(10) Trout Fresh and Waa Wei Shine at 2025 Golden Melody Awards in Taipei
Taiwanese artists Trout Fresh and Waa Wei took top honors at the 36th Golden Melody Awards, while tributes were paid to late singer Khalil Fong and international collaborations were celebrated.
(11) Luhan’s Dramatic Weight Loss Sparks Concern Amid Breakup Rumors
Chinese singer-actor Luhan’s recent appearance has raised public concern over his health and emotional state, following rumors of a breakup with actress Guan Xiaotong, though both he and friend Chen He insist his condition is due to intense tour preparations.
(12) Chinese actor Huang Xiaoming reportedly asks ex-wife Angelababy to leave US$18M mansion
Angelababy’s recent Weibo post sparked speculation that Huang Xiaoming asked her and their son to vacate their former marital home, fueling public debate over their post-divorce dynamics.
(1) Renowned Hong Kong-based Food Critic Chua Lam Dies at Age 83
(Photo Credit: SCMP)
Chua Lam, a legendary food critic, columnist, and film producer, passed away peacefully at the age of 83 at the Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital, surrounded by loved ones. His death was announced via his official Facebook page, which noted that, in accordance with his wishes, no ceremony was held and his body was cremated to avoid disturbing family and friends. Born in Singapore in 1941, Chua began writing at 14 and later studied film in Japan before settling in Hong Kong in 1963, where he worked with Shaw Brothers and Golden Harvest, producing iconic Jackie Chan films.
Chua gained widespread fame in 1989 as co-host of the popular “Celebrity Talk Show” alongside Ni Kuang and James Wong Jim, featuring stars like Leslie Cheung and Maggie Cheung. In the late 1990s, he transitioned into the culinary world, becoming known for his refined palate and dedication to discovering exceptional food. He ran restaurants, wrote food critiques, and organized culinary tours across Asia, sampling multiple restaurants daily. His expertise also contributed to acclaimed Chinese food documentaries such as “A Bite of China” and “Once Upon a Bite”.
Despite personal hardships, including a serious hip injury and the loss of his wife, Chua remained reflective and active. Earlier this year, he published his memoir “Lived,” sharing his life philosophy and love for food. He once expressed a serene view of death, saying he would prefer a quiet farewell and wished for his ashes to be scattered in Victoria Harbour.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3316090/renowned-hong-kong-based-food-critic-chua-lam-dies-age-83?module=perpetual_scroll_0&pgtype=article
(2) Song Jia Won Top Honors at 30th Shanghai TV Festival
(Photo Credit: Xinhua News)
At the 30th Shanghai TV Festival, held under the theme “Thirty and Thriving: A New Chapter in Light and Shadow,” Jin Dong and Song Jia were awarded Best Actor and Best Actress, respectively. Jin Dong was recognized for his heartfelt portrayal of revolutionary figure Xi Zhongxun in “Northwest Years,” praised for bringing warmth and realism to a historical icon. In his acceptance speech, Jin emphasized the enduring importance of meaningful content and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to portray such a revered character.
Song Jia earned her second Best Actress title at the festival, 13 years after her first win, for her moving performance as educator Zhang Guimei in “When the Flowers Bloom”. The jury commended her nuanced and sincere acting, which vividly captured the strength and compassion of her character. Song reflected on the spiritual inspiration she drew from Zhang’s unwavering belief and commitment, vowing to carry that message forward in her future work.
Other major winners included Fei Zhenxiang, who took home Best Director for “When the Flowers Bloom,” and the drama “My Altay,” which won Best Chinese TV Series. Supporting actor awards went to Jiang Qiming (“Stories by the Water”) and Jiang Xin (“Alley Folks”), marking their first wins at the festival.
News Source: https://www.takungpao.com/culture/237147/2025/0628/1099210.html
(3) Hong Kong Police Foil Fake Ticket Syndicate Targeting Jay Chou Concerts
(Photo Credit: Handout)
Hong Kong police arrested a 23-year-old man and a 17-year-old girl at Hung Hom MTR station for allegedly attempting to sell counterfeit tickets to Jay Chou’s concerts. The operation led to the seizure of two fake tickets on-site and over 1,000 more in a nearby hotel room, with a total face value exceeding HK$2 million. The tickets were poorly made, featuring identical serial numbers and printing errors, and were stored and distributed from hotel rooms by a local syndicate.
Chief Inspector To King-sang revealed that the group targeted fans on popular mainland Chinese social media platforms, exploiting the last-minute rush for tickets. The operation successfully prevented the fake tickets from entering the market, averting financial loss and disappointment for concertgoers. Jay Chou’s three-night concert at Kai Tak Sports Park had sold out within hours earlier this year, making it a prime target for fraud.
Earlier in June, police arrested eight suspects linked to a cross-border syndicate that sold fake tickets worth HK$650,000, including for Chou’s shows. The group’s mastermind, believed to reside on the mainland, allegedly had access to printing facilities. Investigators used citywide CCTV and undercover operations to identify and apprehend the suspects.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3316220/2-arrested-1075-fake-tickets-seized-ahead-jay-chou-hong-kong-concerts
(4) “Jurassic World: Rebirth” Premieres in China with Star-Studded Red Carpet and Roaring Fanfare
(Photo Credit: ifeng)
The China premiere of “Jurassic World: Rebirth” took place in Shanghai, drawing massive attention as director Gareth Edwards and stars Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey, and Rupert Friend graced the red carpet. Scarlett stunned in a red gown, while the cast engaged warmly with fans, igniting excitement ahead of the film’s 2 July release. The event featured dazzling light shows and the iconic Jurassic logo projected on the venue’s exterior, creating a cinematic spectacle.
During the pre-screening Q&A, the cast shared personal anecdotes and humorous moments. Scarlett revealed her lifelong dream of joining the “Jurassic” franchise, joking she’d even accept a minor role as “dinosaur snack.” Jonathan Bailey charmed the crowd with his fluent Chinese nickname “Qiao Beibei,” leading to playful interactions with Scarlett. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter and cheers.
Behind-the-scenes stories added depth to the evening, with Rupert Friend recounting intense filming conditions across the UK, Thailand, and Malta, including encounters with wild animals and dangerous insects. Director Edwards lightened the mood with a witty remark about Scarlett’s character surviving any dinosaur attack due to her contract. The night ended with signed dinosaur toys and a group photo, leaving fans thrilled for the film’s release.
News Source: https://ent.ifeng.com/c/8kbgr8e9aQo
(5) Salty Pictures and Damai Entertainment Launch First Look Deal with Chinese Adaptation of Thai Hit “Not Friends”
(Photo Credit: GDH)
Hong Kong-based studio Salty Pictures has signed a first look deal with Damai Entertainment, formerly Alibaba Pictures, to develop a slate of Chinese-rooted films with international appeal. The collaboration begins with a Mandarin-language adaptation of the Thai coming-of-age hit “Not Friends,” which was Thailand’s official submission for Best International Feature Film at the 96th Academy Awards. The Chinese version will shift the story to a university setting in a fictional city while preserving the original narrative.
Veteran multi-hyphenate Gao Xiaosong will oversee the slate and executive produce “Not Friends,” bringing his extensive experience in music, film, and television. Director Baz Poonpiriya, known for “Bad Genius,” joins as producer. Damai Entertainment will finance the project, with production set to begin in Hangzhou later this year.
The original “Not Friends,” produced by GDH (a fully integrated Thai studio), won Best Picture at the Thai National Film Association Awards. GDH has a strong international track record with films like “Bad Genius” and “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies.” Salty Pictures CEO Jonah Greenberg emphasized the studio’s pan-Asian identity and commitment to cross-cultural storytelling through this landmark deal.
News Source: https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/thai-oscar-entry-not-friends-salty-damai-first-look-deal-1236441259/
(6) Golden Harvest Exits Hong Kong Cinema Market
(Photo credit: Sam Tsang)
Golden Harvest, a cornerstone of Hong Kong’s cinematic history, has exited the local theatrical market after shutting down its last four cinemas on 29 June. The closures include GH Taipo, GH Galaxy in Shau Kei Wan, the sky in Olympian City 2, and StagE in Tuen Mun Town Plaza. Earlier this year, the company had already closed three other locations, including the iconic Grand Ocean Cinema in Tsim Sha Tsui. A new, unnamed operator is expected to take over three of the closed venues.
Founded in 1970 by Raymond Chow, Golden Harvest played a pivotal role in launching the international careers of Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and other Hong Kong film legends. The company opened its first cinema in 1977 and introduced the city’s first fully digital multiplex in 2009. It was renamed Orange Sky Golden Harvest in 2009 after Chinese businessman Wu Kebo became the majority shareholder.
The closures come amid a broader downturn in Hong Kong’s cinema industry, which is still recovering from the pandemic. Nine cinemas have shut down in 2025 alone, matching last year’s total, as the city’s box office revenue hit a 13-year low. Golden Harvest continues to operate successfully in Singapore through its Golden Village chain.
News Source: https://www.screendaily.com/news/golden-harvest-exits-hong-kong-cinema-market/5206598.article
(7) Hong Kong Star Chow Yun Fat to Headline Star Awards 2025
(Photo Credit: KK Empire)
Hong Kong film icon Chow Yun Fat is set to attend the 30th Star Awards in Singapore on 6 July, reprising his role as an award presenter three decades after his debut at the inaugural ceremony in 1994. With a career spanning over 100 productions, Chow is celebrated for his roles in classics like “A Better Tomorrow and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,” and has earned multiple accolades including Golden Horse and Hong Kong Film Awards, as well as recognition at the Busan International Film Festival.
At age 70, Chow continues to captivate audiences with recent performances in “Project Gutenberg and One More Chance,” and remains a beloved figure in both Asian and global cinema. His appearance at the Star Awards is especially meaningful, as he shares a personal connection to Singapore through his wife, Jasmine Tan. Joining him on stage will be fellow Hong Kong actor Sean Lau and Singaporean singer Kit Chan, who will also present and perform.
The ceremony will also feature Chantalle Ng making her hosting debut alongside veteran host Guo Liang, who will lead the show for a record-setting 16th time. The event promises a blend of nostalgia, star power, and celebration of regional entertainment excellence.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/chow-yun-fat-to-headline-30th-star-awards-in-singapore/
(8) Jay Chou Meets Stephen Chow Secretly in Hong Kong, Hinting at Potential Collaboration
(Photo Credit: IG)
Taiwanese music superstar Jay Chou recently wrapped up a concert in Hong Kong and surprised fans with a secret meeting with legendary comedian and filmmaker Stephen Chow. The encounter, shared via social media, has stirred excitement across the entertainment world, especially as it hints at a possible collaboration between the two icons. In a whimsical caption, Chow referenced his famous line about dreams and “salted fish,” while posing with Chou against the scenic backdrop of Victoria Harbour.
The photo featured Chou standing on a soccer ball, a clear nod to Chow’s cult classic film “Shaolin Soccer”. Chow’s poetic message described Chou as holding a “pot of dreams,” symbolizing their shared creative energy and hinting at something bigger in the works. Fans quickly speculated that this could be a teaser for a new project, especially given the symbolic imagery and the playful tribute to Chow’s cinematic legacy.
Reports now suggest that Jay Chou may be part of Chow’s upcoming film, “Shaolin Women’s Soccer,” which is said to feature a star-studded cast. While no official announcement has been made, the buzz surrounding their meeting has fueled anticipation for a formal reveal. If confirmed, this collaboration would mark a major crossover between music and film, blending Chou’s charisma with Chow’s comedic genius.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/jay-chou-meets-stephen-chow-secretly-in-hong-kong-hinting-at-potential-collaboration/
(9) Hong Kong Disneyland Kicks Off 20th Anniversary with Grand Parade and Global Fanfare
(Photo Credit: Disney)
Hong Kong Disneyland marked its 20th anniversary with a spectacular opening-day parade featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, and over 30 beloved Disney characters. The 30-minute celebration included 11 themed floats and more than 100 performers, captivating visitors who eagerly captured the moment with photos and videos. Financial Secretary Paul Chan and Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law joined the festivities, highlighting the park’s significance to Hong Kong’s global tourism appeal.
Tourists from around the world flocked to the park for the milestone event. A Thai visitor shared her excitement about attending the first day of celebrations, while an American family revealed they rescheduled their trip just to be part of the magical occasion. To commemorate the anniversary, Disney unveiled new decorations and character-themed banners throughout the park, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Michael Moriarty, managing director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, expressed optimism for a strong summer season, noting the park’s role in Hong Kong’s broader tourism landscape. Financial Secretary Paul Chan emphasized the need for continued innovation to maintain the park’s global appeal. Disney also confirmed progress on its upcoming Marvel and Pixar-themed expansions.
(10) Trout Fresh and Waa Wei Shine at 2025 Golden Melody Awards in Taipei
(Photo Credit: eNCA)
Taiwanese hip-hop artist Trout Fresh and singer-DJ Waa Wei were the standout winners at the 36th Golden Melody Awards held in Taipei on 28 June. Trout Fresh, whose real name is Lu Shih-hsuan, won Best Male Singer and Best Mandarin Album for Good Sound With Attitudes, beating out strong contenders like Li Ronghao and Terence Lam. His humorous acceptance speech, referencing Jay Chou, delighted fans at the Taipei Arena.
Waa Wei claimed her second Best Female Singer award, triumphing over regional stars Tanya Chua and Penny Tai. In her heartfelt speech, she emphasized perseverance and self-belief, saying the award reaffirmed her passion for music and her desire to keep challenging herself. Her emotional words resonated with fans and fellow artists alike.
The ceremony also honored the late Khalil Fong, who posthumously received Best Composer for “Twenty Three” and the Jury Award for his album The Dreamer. Additionally, a cross-cultural collaboration between South Korea’s Hyukoh and Taiwan’s Sunset Rollercoaster won Best Music Video for “Antenna.” The event featured artists from across Asia, celebrating diversity and excellence in Mandarin music.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/taiwan-artists-triumph-at-golden-melody-awards-for-mandarin-music/#google_vignette
(11) Luhan’s Dramatic Weight Loss Sparks Concern Amid Breakup Rumors
(Photo Credit: WebTVAsia)
Luhan, the 35-year-old Chinese pop star, has sparked concern after appearing noticeably thinner during his 2025 Asia tour. Fans were alarmed by his sunken cheeks and frail frame, prompting speculation about his health and emotional well-being. His appearance in Shanghai, where he looked drastically different from his usual vibrant self, led many to suspect he was suffering from heartbreak following rumored separation from longtime girlfriend Guan Xiaotong.
In response to growing concern, Luhan addressed fans during a livestream, attributing his weight loss to irregular eating habits and intense preparation for his new album and performances. He assured viewers that his health was fine. His close friend, actor Chen He, also defended him, explaining that Luhan had been undergoing rigorous fitness training to present his best self on stage, and urged fans not to overthink the situation.
The breakup rumors stem from Guan Xiaotong’s silence on Luhan’s birthday this year, a departure from her usual celebratory posts. Their relationship, which began in 2017, has faced public scrutiny, especially after Luhan’s controversial livestream in January. Despite the speculation, neither party has officially confirmed a split.
News Source: https://www.epochtimes.com/gb/25/7/1/n14542863.htm
(12) Chinese actor Huang Xiaoming reportedly asks ex-wife Angelababy to leave US$18M mansion
(Photo Credit: IG)
On 26 June, Angelababy shared photos on Weibo that drew attention not for her appearance, but for the unfamiliar background. Observers noted the setting differed from the luxury home she once shared with ex-husband Huang Xiaoming near Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower. This led to rumors that Huang had asked Angelababy and their son to move out, allegedly to make space for his new partner Ye Ke and their newborn daughter.
The mansion, purchased in 2015 as their marital home, was believed to have remained Angelababy’s residence after their 2022 divorce. Social media reactions were divided—some criticized Huang for displacing his son and ex-wife, while others argued Angelababy, a successful actress and entrepreneur, likely owns multiple properties and no longer needs the apartment. Neither party has publicly addressed the speculation.
Angelababy, born Yang Ying, has built a high-profile career since her 2007 debut, becoming one of China’s top actresses. Huang Xiaoming, known for iconic roles in Chinese dramas, began dating Ye Ke shortly after the split. Though both pledged to co-parent their son, their rare joint appearance at Shanghai Disneyland in 2024 revealed a distant relationship, adding to public curiosity about their evolving family dynamic.
News Source: https://e.vnexpress.net/news/life/celebrities/chinese-actor-huang-xiaoming-reportedly-asks-ex-wife-angelababy-to-leave-18m-mansion-4908346.html
