China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 62 Week of 4 August 2025
(1) TVB films Miss Hong Kong pageant in Penang, promoting the state to 5.1 million viewers
TVB’s Miss Hong Kong 2025 pageant is filming in Penang for the first time in its 79-year history, showcasing the Malaysian island’s landscapes to 5.1 million viewers to boost tourism while featuring 14 finalists under the theme “Do You Wanna Be…?”.
(2) Eason Chan’s daughter makes surprise appearance at Warner Family concert with poised debut performance
Following her signing with Warner Music and the June release of her debut single “doll”, Constance Chan, daughter of singer Eason Chan, made her successful solo performance debut at a Warner concert in Macau on August 2nd.
(3) Upcoming war-themed Chinese film ‘731 Biochemical Revelations’ draws attention from Japanese media
China’s upcoming film “731 Biochemical Revelations,” exposing Japanese Unit 731’s wartime atrocities, is set for release on the symbolic anniversary of Japan’s invasion (September 18), stirring reactions in Japan including media concern about anti-Japanese sentiment and criticism from Japanese figures challenging their government’s historical denial.
(4) Former Miss HK Shirley Yeung shares family photos, sparks speculation on husband’s appearance
Hong Kong actress Shirley Yeung launched her self-funded Mandarin single “Three People’s Love is Too Crowded” at her 47th birthday event, featuring her children and mother while deliberately shielding her husband’s public presence.
(5) Jess Lee secures spot in singing competition finals
After no challengers emerged last week, Jess Lee has made it to the grand finale of Chinese reality singing competition Singer 2025 by default.
(6) Chinese actress Zhao Wei faces court-ordered freezing of 16 million RMB in shares due to ongoing legal troubles
Disgraced Chinese actress Zhao Wei faces renewed financial troubles as a Beijing court has frozen shares worth ¥16 million (~HK$17.49M) in three of her companies for three years. This marks the latest in a series of financial setbacks, following her 2014 stock market ban for a leveraged takeover scandal and separate 2021 asset freezes over debt disputes.
(7) Shen Yulin is reportedly in a coma due to fulminant hepatitis, forcing the studio to halt production of “11 O’Clock Hot Shop”
Taiwanese TV host Shen Yulin is hospitalised in critical condition with coma-inducing cerebral edema linked to fulminant hepatitis.
(8) Mark Huang Xiaoming’s ex-partner announces birth of baby
Internet KOL Ye Ke confirmed her baby’s birth during an August 6th livestream, directly addressing longstanding rumors while maintaining Huang Xiaoming’s conspicuous silence fuels breakup speculation and questions about his role as the father.
(9) Retired HK actress Kate Tsui resurfaces with new jewellery line after 6-year hiatus
Retired Hong Kong actress Kate Tsui has re-emerged with a surprise new collection for her previously jewellery brand, launching a limited-edition “Rabbit-Duck Illusion 2” line this autumn in collaboration with a local art studio.
(10) Eason Chan opens up about anxiety: ‘I still can’t stop taking medication’
Hong Kong singer Eason Chan disclosed during his documentary premiere that he has been reliant on doctor-prescribed medication to manage severe anxiety following the cancellation of his Hangzhou concert, stating he cannot safely stop taking it until after his tour concludes.
(11) Netflix-style iQiyi seeks US$300 million for Hong Kong stock market listing
The Netflix-style streaming service, owned by Baidu, has begun discussions with global banks about a second listing in the city.
(12) HK actor Roger Kwok takes on non-executive director role at “Hong Kong Bulls” basketball event
Veteran Hong Kong actor Roger Kwok has transitioned into a business tycoon, successfully leading his family company to a stock market listing after stepping back from acting following his divorce. His net worth, boosted by surging property assets post-listing, is now estimated to exceed HK$500 million, cementing his status as a multimillionaire executive, as highlighted by his recent Hong Kong Bulls appearance in his corporate director capacity.
(1) TVB films Miss Hong Kong pageant in Penang, promoting the state to 5.1 million viewers
(Photo Credit: Wong Hon Wai (Facebook) & TVB)
For the first time in its 79-year history, the Miss Hong Kong Pageant 2025 is being filmed in Penang, Malaysia, following TVB’s announcement revealing swimsuit photos of 14 finalists against iconic backdrops like Penang Hill and Batu Feringghi beach. The shoot marks a milestone for both the pageant and Penang’s tourism sector, with state official Wong Hon Wai noting its significance in elevating the island’s global profile.
Amid morning rain that contestants humorously welcomed for its cooling effect, the finalists wore pastel blue and orange swimsuits while highlighting Penang’s landscapes under this year’s theme “Do You Wanna Be…?”Hosted by TVB stars Benjamin Yuen and Moon Lau, the production will continue featuring Penang’s diverse scenery, capitalizing on Wong Hon Wai’s June negotiations with HK Express to boost tourism collaborations.
The Penang episodes will air on August 16 and 23 via TVB Jade, expected to reach 5.1 million viewers across Hong Kong and Chinese-speaking regions. Wong emphasized that this international exposure underscores Penang’s emergence as a prime filming destination while offering unprecedented tourism promotion through one of the Chinese-speaking world’s most iconic pageants.
News Source: https://says.com/my/entertainment/tvb-films-miss-hong-kong-pageant-penang-promoting-state-5-1-million-viewers
(2) Eason Chan’s daughter makes surprise appearance at Warner Family concert with poised debut performance
(Photo Credit: Hypebeast Hong Kong)
On the evening of August 2nd, Constance Chan, daughter of Hong Kong singer Eason Chan, made her debut public performance as a solo artist at the Warner Family Concert held at the Galaxy Arena in Macau.
As the opening act, she performed her debut single “doll” to an enthusiastic reception, earning applause from the audience. It was reported that Constance, Eason Chan’s 20-year-old daughter, officially announced her signing with the renowned international record label Warner Music and launched her music career on June 23rd.
Her debut English single “doll” was released across all platforms on June 26th. Constance stated the song is “dedicated to all souls that have been hurt and deceived,” signifying “awakening from pain.” The single was produced by internationally acclaimed producer Ernest Choi, known for his previous collaborations with singer Leah Dou. Constance also participated in the songwriting and composition process for “doll.” Eason Chan previously expressed that pursuing music was his daughter’s own choice, stating, “I just hope she can enjoy the process and find her true voice.”
News Source: https://www.sohu.com/a/920378924_121123850
(3) Upcoming war-themed Chinese film ‘731 Biochemical Revelations’ draws attention from Japanese media
(Photo Credit: on.cc)
Chinese film “731 Biochemical Revelations,” exposing the atrocities of Japan’s Unit 731 (which conducted bacterial experiments on humans during WWII), is set for a symbolic release in China on September 18 – the anniversary of Japan’s 1931 invasion. Its announcement sparked major interest, with over 3.84 million users on Maoyan expressing intent to watch. Many Chinese netizens emphasized the date’s significance for remembering Japanese war crimes. Other historical films like “Mountains and Rivers Bearing Witnesses” (August 15) and “Against All Odds” (September 3) are also slated for release.
The announcement drew immediate attention from major Japanese media outlets like Kyodo News and Jiji Press. Kyodo’s report described September 18 as the anniversary of the “Liutiaohu Incident” (known in China as the September 18th Incident, marking Japan’s invasion). Jiji Press expressed concern the film might fuel “anti-Japanese sentiment.” These reports were widely reposted by other Japanese media sources.
In contrast to the official Japanese stance, Japanese peace activist Nobuharu Goi has shown strong interest in the film, seeking contact with its director. Critically, Japanese lawmaker Taku Yamazoe recently presented hidden Japanese military documents in the National Diet proving Unit 731’s live human experiments, directly contradicting the Japanese government’s claim to lack detailed knowledge. Yamazoe condemned the government’s “profoundly disingenuous” stance and efforts to obscure wartime perpetration, highlighting ongoing historical suppression within Japan despite new evidence emerging.
News Source: https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202508/1339985.shtml
(4) Former Miss HK Shirley Yeung shares family photos, sparks speculation on husband’s appearance
(Photo Credit: HK01)
Shirley Yeung has focused on the mainland market in recent years. Recently, she self-funded a new Mandarin song “Three People’s Love is Too Crowded” and held a media event in Tsim Sha Tsui today (7th) to celebrate her 47th birthday. Her daughter Krystal Yang, son Kody, and mother showed their support in a three-generation appearance, though her mysterious husband remained absent. The event featured her new song MV, her son singing “Happy Birthday,” and her daughter playing guitar while Shirley performed “Sky,” creating a warm and lively atmosphere.
Shirley has always loved singing and has been livestreaming performances for three to four years. She tearfully explained during a late-night stream: “Many people think the Miss Hong Kong winner lives miserably and struggles financially. Actually, it was just fans requesting the song ‘To Mother, From Daughter’ that moved me—I’m very emotional.” She admitted to enduring many hardships silently in the past but said she now finds ways to express herself as she ages.
When asked about criticism from Leung See-ho accusing her of “playing the victim for sympathy,” she calmly replied, “I’ve already responded in a post.” Her family fully supports her new song. Shirley revealed her husband rated it 90/100 while her daughter gave 98/100. Her husband celebrated her birthday early, and when asked why he didn’t attend, Shirley explained: “He’s a normal person; I don’t want attention on him or to disrupt his life. I never asked ‘Are you coming?’—his support is enough.” She added they aren’t hiding: “We go out together naturally. If spotted, I’ll introduce him. We’re not locking him away—I just protect his private life and work.”
News Source: https://www.hk01.com/%E5%8D%B3%E6%99%82%E5%A8%9B%E6%A8%82/60264491/%E6%A5%8A%E6%80%9D%E7%90%A647%E6%AD%B2%E7%94%9F%E6%97%A5%E5%87%BA%E6%96%B0%E6%AD%8C%E8%AB%87%E4%B8%89%E8%A7%92%E6%88%80-%E5%AD%90%E5%A5%B3%E5%AA%BD%E5%AA%BD%E4%B8%89%E4%BB%A3%E5%90%8C%E5%A0%82%E8%80%81%E5%85%AC%E6%9C%AA%E8%A6%8B%E5%BD%B1
(5) Jess Lee secures spot in singing competition finals
(Photo Credit: MangoTV)
Malaysian singer Jess Lee Kar Wei has secured a spot in the grand finale of the Chinese reality show “Singer 2025” by default. During last week’s episode, her performance of the notoriously difficult song “Thousand-Year Love” was so impressive that no other singer dared to challenge her position, automatically advancing her to the finals scheduled for August 8th.
According to the show’s rules, after a performance, other singers could voluntarily issue a challenge. If a singer emerged from the backstage light door, it signified they intended to challenge Jess Lee Kar Wei. However, to everyone’s surprise, after her performance, no one stepped out from behind the lit door. The other singers were visibly intimidated, leaving none willing to take on the challenge. This resulted in Jess Lee Kar Wei becoming the first singer in the show’s history to advance uncontested straight to the finals—winning without a battle.”
Lee expressed immense joy at returning to the competition after a decade, calling it the highlight of her life. She emphasized her deep obsession with both the stage and the act of singing itself. She will compete in the finals alongside fellow defending singers A-Lin, Michey Guyton, Chusheng Chen, Beni, Yichun Shan and Grace Kinstler.
News Source: https://www.sohu.com/a/920530951_122444950
(6) Chinese actress Zhao Wei faces court-ordered freezing of 16 million RMB in shares due to ongoing legal troubles
(Photo credit: Reuters)
Chinese actress Zhao Wei, who has been largely absent from public view in recent years following her designation as a “disgraced artist”, has encountered further legal troubles. According to China’s National Enterprise Credit Information Publicity System, the Dongcheng District People’s Court in Beijing has frozen her shares worth a total of RMB 16 million (approximately HK$17.49 million) across three companies for a period of three years.
Zhao Wei’s financial dealings have long been under scrutiny. In 2014, she and her ex-husband Huang Youlong drew regulatory attention for their highly leveraged acquisition of the public listed company Wanjia Group. The deal, which involved a staggering 50-fold leverage, triggered significant stock price volatility and resulted in fines and a 5-year stock market ban for Zhao, Huang, and their company, Longwei Media. The couple divorced in 2021.
This latest ruling marks another chapter in Zhao Wei’s financial woes. In April 2021, her shares in Wuhu Dongrunfa Investment and other entities were frozen over a RMB 10 million (approximately HK$10.93 million) guarantee contract dispute with China Minsheng Trust.
(7) Shen Yulin is reportedly in a coma due to fulminant hepatitis, forcing the studio to halt production of “11 O’Clock Hot Shop”
(Photo Credit: Shen Yulin’s Facebook)
Taiwanese artist Shen Yulin, 27, is hospitalized in critical condition after being admitted to the intensive care unit at Taipei’s Tri-Service General Hospital (TRI-GAH) due to cerebral edema caused by fulminant hepatitis, leaving him comatose. His condition shocked fans and industry peers, leading TVBS to immediately suspend his talk show “11 o’clock Hot Shop” this Thursday pending further updates on his health.
While media reports detail his ICU admission and coma, TVBS issued a statement clarifying that according to Shen’s assistant, he was hospitalized for “a checkup due to feeling unwell,” emphasizing that his health is their priority. This follows recent observations by colleagues who noted his visibly deteriorating state during last week’s recordings: Shen appeared sallow, extremely thin, and listless despite heavy makeup.
Shen’s hospitalization comes amid ongoing health concerns he openly acknowledged earlier this month, revealing alarming medical indicators including high visceral fat and triglycerides. His pursuit of rapid weight loss saw him drop from 185 pounds to 89 pounds in just 10 months through aggressive methods like the “9 intermittent fasting” diet and ultra-slow jogging—a regimen that may have contributed to his current crisis.
News Source: https://news.vocofm.com/en/entertainment-news/153815/
(8) Mark Huang Xiaoming’s ex-partner announces birth of baby
(Photo Credit: HK01/Mark Huang Xiaoming’s Weibo)
Chinese actor Huang Xiaoming, who publicly dated internet celebrity Ye Ke last year, has recently fueled breakup rumors after being absent amid reports of their separation due to overwhelming public scrutiny. Speculation intensified in February when unconfirmed reports claimed Ye Ke secretly gave birth to their daughter in Shanghai, though neither Huang nor Ye addressed the claims at the time, leaving fans in suspense about their relationship status and the alleged new arrival.
On August 6th, Ye Ke ended months of silence during a livestream, confirming her new motherhood while sharing details of her postpartum self-care routine. The 33-year-old confidently remarked, “Don’t you think I look quite good for a woman who just had a baby? I focus on face masks, oils, and sleep daily—I feel soft and relaxed,” visibly content with her recovery. Her candid revelation marked the first official acknowledgment of the birth, highlighting her proactive approach to well-being.
Despite Ye Ke’s joyful announcement, Huang Xiaoming has maintained complete silence, avoiding public comments or appearances related to the situation. His absence has amplified speculation regarding their rumored breakup and his role as the child’s father. The unresolved questions around their relationship dynamics—coupled with Huang’s continued invisibility—keep the topic trending, underscoring the intense public fascination with their private lives.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/mark-huang-xiaomings-ex-partner-announces-birth-of-baby/
(9) Retired HK actress Kate Tsui resurfaces with new jewellery line after 6-year hiatus
(Photo Credit: Dimsum Daily)
Retired Hong Kong actress Kate Tsui, largely absent from the public eye for several years, now continues to capture attention. Her recent sighting at Paris’s Musée de l’Orangerie revealed her whereabouts, and now further developments have emerged: her jewellery brand has surprisingly unveiled a new collection.
After leaving TVB, Tsui pursued studies in jewellery design and established her own brand. However, as she gradually faded from the entertainment industry, her brand also slipped into obscurity. It wasn’t until recently that netizens discovered new products from her brand, which are now being sold in collaboration with a local art studio.
The studio took the initiative to reveal Kate Tsui’s personally signed cards, hinting at the upcoming autumn release of “Rabbit-Duck Illusion 2.” Each piece in this limited-edition collection will come with Tsui’s autograph and a special message, delighting fans with this unexpected and pleasant surprise.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/retired-hk-actress-kate-tsui-resurfaces-with-new-jewellery-line-after-6-year-hiatus/
(10) Eason Chan opens up about anxiety: ‘I still can’t stop taking medication’
(Photo Credit: Dot News)
Eason Chan revealed at the premiere of his concert documentary that he has been battling anxiety, particularly after the cancellation of his Hangzhou show, leading to an ongoing dependence on medication prescribed by his doctor. He explained that the pressure was so intense he felt unable to function without the medication, experiencing severe tension and rebound effects whenever he tried to stop taking it during his tour. Chan plans to cease medication only after the tour concludes.
Chan’s health has been a recurring concern for fans. This includes a highly emotional incident in May 2023 when he tearfully canceled two Hangzhou concerts due to voice loss, and another cancellation in May 2024 of shows in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, due to illness. On that latter occasion, he publicly apologized on social media for the disappointment caused, expressing regret that a virus disrupted concerts he had awaited for 12 years and vowing to recover and return.
Following the Kaohsiung cancellation, malicious rumors falsely claiming Chan had died from COVID-19 complications spread across social media, causing panic. These rumors were definitively dispelled when fans shared a video on May 22nd showing Chan in Kaohsiung; looking healthy and in good spirits, he was spotted wearing sunglasses and a white T-shirt, even waving to fans, confirming his wellbeing.
News Source: https://english.dotdotnews.com/a/202508/06/AP6892f5f6e4b08d290531e2c9.html
(11) Netflix-style iQiyi seeks US$300 million for Hong Kong stock market listing
(Photo Credit: SCMP)
iQiyi, the Baidu-owned video streaming giant rivalling Tencent and Alibaba in China, is exploring a secondary listing in Hong Kong seeking to raise approximately US$300 million. The Netflix-style service, boasting over 400 million monthly users and hosting diverse content from Chinese dramas to Hollywood films, has initiated discussions with global banks and joins companies like CATL in considering dual listings. While its US shares reacted positively to the news initially, the company stressed negotiations are fluid and a spokesperson declined to comment.
A major factor prompting US-listed Chinese firms like iQiyi to pursue Hong Kong listings is the renewed threat of potential US delisting under a possible second Trump presidency. This stems from the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act (HFCAA), enacted in 2020, which could see companies booted from US exchanges if US regulators cannot inspect their audits for consecutive years. Although audit conflicts were believed resolved in 2022, the lingering political risk makes a Hong Kong presence attractive as a safer haven.
If successful, iQiyi’s listing would contribute to Hong Kong’s remarkable stock market revival in 2024, which has seen it reclaim the world’s second-largest IPO market position. This resurgence is partly fuelled by looser regulations and a wave of listings by mainland Chinese companies. Precedent also exists, as major peers like Alibaba and Baidu successfully launched secondary offerings in Hong Kong following their US IPOs, demonstrating a viable path for large US-listed Chinese tech firms seeking investor access closer to home.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/business/banking-finance/article/3321028/netflix-style-iqiyi-seeks-us300-million-hong-kong-stock-market-listing-sources-say?module=top_story&pgtype=section
(12) HK actor Roger Kwok takes on non-executive director role at “Hong Kong Bulls” basketball event
(Photo Credit: Dimsum Daily)
Veteran Hong Kong actor Roger Kwok, a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for decades, has recently shifted his focus toward business ventures following his divorce from actress Cindy Au after 18 years of marriage.
While continuing to care for their two children, Kwok has stepped back from acting to co-managing his family’s business alongside his sister. Recently, the Hong Kong basketball team, the “Hong Kong Bulls,” invited Kwok to be a guest at their opening ceremony, not as a renowned actor but in his capacity as a non-executive director of his listed company.
Under Kwok’s leadership, the family business achieved a successful stock market listing, marking a major milestone in his corporate career. Some reports suggest that his net worth could exceed HK$500 million. His asset portfolio includes multiple residential and commercial properties, the value of which has surged following the company’s listing. This financial growth has solidified Kwok’s status as a multimillionaire tycoon.
