China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 64 Week of 18 August 2025
(1) Pop star Keung To bounces back after near-drowning incident with new BMW and basketball passion
After a near-drowning accident in June, Hong Kong idol Keung To is recovering through basketball therapy and a new HK$600,000 BMW iX electric car.
(2) Sodagreen Band Accuses Ex-Manager of Embezzling NT $0.47B Royalties Amid 15-Year “Tyrant” Reign
Taiwanese band Sodagreen won a NT 23.55 million lawsuit against ex−manager Lin Weizhe from stealing nearly NT470 million in royalties and concert profits. Members revealed Lin’s 15-year management causing them PTSD and lead singer Wu Qingfeng’s career-threatening vocal paralysis.
(3) Michelle Yeoh brings Chinese blockbuster Ne Zha 2 to life in English dub
Michelle Yeoh joins the English dub of China’s blockbuster Ne Zha 2(sequel to the $2.2B-grossing original) as Lady Yin, with A24/CMC Pictures localizing it for North American theaters starting August 22 to leverage universal themes and existing demand after its subtitled success.
(4) ‘Unexpected challenge’: Actor Jet Li in hospital for operation
There were concerns over actor Jet Li’s health when he posted on Douyin a video of himself lying in hospital with his eyes closed, on Aug 17.
(5) Florinda Ho clears photos with fiancé, sparking split rumours after 3-year engagement
Florinda Ho, daughter of late Macau casino magnate Stanley Ho, has sparked breakup speculation with fiancé Douglas after deleting all their couple photos from social media and his prolonged absence from family events since February.
(6) ‘Beautiful’ gun-toting China tactical police officer goes viral after hitting 10 bullseyes
Ningbo police officer Ying Weimin gained viral fame on Chinese social media for her flawless marksmanship and frontline excellence in solving major cases, while also pioneering community anti-fraud education.
(7) Zhao Jiamin replaced mid-filming, says her boss Yu Zheng who’s sorry for not being “strong” enough for his artist
Producer Yu Zheng publicly accused the “Brilliant Girlfriend” production team of unfairly replacing his artist Zhao Jiamin after sabotaging her performance, while replacement actress He Shiyu’s agency defended her casting as transparent amid intense online backlash over alleged industry power abuse.
(8) David Tao and Tony Yang Crack Eggs & Hearts in Retro-Inspired MV “In the Morning”
David Tao released his new single “In the Morning” on August 20, starring Tony Yang as a man who is obsessively cooking elaborate egg dishes to save a failing relationship.
(9) Wong Jing Reveals Andy Lau: The ‘Most Dedicated Actor’ Whose Ascetic Discipline Forged an Ultimate Hong Kong Superstar”
Director Wong Jing revealed Andy Lau’s ascetic discipline: including strict vegetarianism and relentless work ethic, which forged his four-decade reign as Hong Kong’s ultimate superstar.
(10) G.E.M. headlines Kai Tak Sports Park despite feud with Pong Nam
Renowned Hong Kong singer G.E.M. has solidified her legacy as a powerhouse performer by becoming the first female artist to headline at the newly opened Kai Tak Sports Park.
(11) Stanley Ho’s son Mario Ho becomes co-owner of NBA’s Boston Celtics
Mario Ho, son of the late Macau gambling magnate Stanley Ho, announced he has become a co-owner and member of the Managing Board of the NBA’s Boston Celtics.
(12) Former ATV executive James Shing passes away at 48
James Shing Pan-yu, former executive of Asia Television (ATV), has passed away at the age of 48 after fighting against liver cancer.
(1) Pop star Keung To bounces back after near-drowning incident with new BMW and basketball passion
(Photo Credit: The Standard)
Hong Kong idol Keung To (from mega-group MIRROR) is making a spirited recovery after a terrifying June accident where he fell into the sea near Sai Wan and was submerged for nearly 10 minutes before rescue. The incident left him emotionally drained, prompting his management to grant an extended break after he completed urgent commitments. Exclusive photos now reveal his rejuvenation efforts, channeling energy into basketball and short getaways.
A significant milestone in Keung To’s recovery is his first car purchase: a sleek black BMW iX electric vehicle costing HK$600,000. Despite previously window-shopping Ferraris after acing his driving test, he opted for practicality on advice from fellow MIRROR member Edan Lui (also a BMW driver). A close friend shared that Keung chose the EV for family outings, eco-friendliness, and to avoid paparazzi at gas stations.
Basketball has become Keung To’s primary stress relief. He was spotted playing with fierce determination in a Tai Kok Tsui local league match for team “Wai Kee,” sporting stubble and diving into plays—scuffling with opponents and taking tumbles. His team clinched a 43–38 victory, with Keung cheering wildly. Off-court, he frequents street games, once rolling on the ground mid-match in pure exhilaration, highlighting how the sport anchors his emotional revival.
News Source: https://www.thestandard.com.hk/hong-kong-news/article/309374/Pop-star-Keung-To-bounces-back-after-near-drowning-incident-with-new-BMW-and-basketball-passion
(2) Sodagreen Band Accuses Ex-Manager of Embezzling NT $0.47B Royalties Amid 15-Year “Tyrant” Reign
(Photo Credit: Yahoo! news)
Taiwanese band Sodagreen won a landmark NT 23.55million (∼US730,000) judgment against their former manager Lin Weizhe for stealing nearly NT 470million (∼US14.6 million) in concert profits and copyright fees from Taiwan and mainland China. Despite the court ruling, Lin refused to pay even “one-twentieth” of the sum and filed an appeal, deepening the band’s frustration over his refusal to acknowledge wrongdoing after years of exploitation.
Beyond financial harm, band members revealed that Lin’s 15-year management was marked by high-pressure tactics and workplace bullying, leaving them with diagnosed PTSD. Lead singer Wu Qingfeng suffered severe stress-induced vocal damage, including unexplained episodes of complete voice loss during performances. His 2019 solo tour and Sodagreen’s 2022 reunion concerts (under the temporary name “Oaeen“) were jeopardized by these health crises, which insiders directly attributed to Lin’s oppressive conduct.
Following Sodagreen’s recent “20 Years in a Moment” tour finale in Kaohsiung, Wu Qingfeng hinted at retirement plans, citing ongoing vocal struggles exacerbated by the legal battle. Band associates confirmed his vocal issues stemmed from Lin’s management, raising concerns about his artistic future. Despite multiple inquiries, Lin Weizhe has remained silent regarding his appeal and the allegations of systemic abuse, leaving unresolved questions about accountability for both financial and emotional damages inflicted on the band.
News Source: https://tw.news.yahoo.com/%E9%9D%92%E5%B3%B0%E5%A4%B1%E8%81%B2%E8%90%8C%E9%80%80%E6%84%8F-%E9%AB%98%E5%A3%9315%E5%B9%B4-%E8%98%87%E6%89%93%E7%B6%A0%E6%8E%A7%E7%B6%93%E7%B4%80%E4%BA%BA%E5%90%9E4-7%E5%84%84%E7%89%88%E6%AC%8A%E8%B2%BB-%E9%9D%92%E5%B3%B0%E5%8F%97%E5%89%B5-222859290.html
(3) Michelle Yeoh brings Chinese blockbuster Ne Zha 2 to life in English dub
(Photo Credit: Michael Buckner)
Oscar-winner Michelle Yeoh has joined the English-language dub of the Chinese animated blockbuster Ne Zha 2, which opens in over 2,500 North American theaters on August 22. The film, a sequel to the highest-grossing animated film of all time with US$2.2 billion in global sales, is being localized by A24 and CMC Pictures to broaden its international appeal. Yeoh, who voices the character of Lady Yin, advocated for the dub after her own viewing experience in Hong Kong.
The production represents a significant investment in cross-cultural entertainment, with the original requiring five years and the work of 4,000 individuals from 138 Chinese animation companies. The epic 143-minute film features 2,400 animation shots and 1,900 special effects sequences. The story follows a rebellious child demon reincarnation striving to defy his predetermined fate, drawing on well-known Chinese mythology presented with contemporary resonance.
The film’s prior subtitled release already garnered over US$20 million in North America, with community-organized screenings demonstrating existing demand. The dub aims to capitalize on this interest, using universal themes of family and belonging to bridge cultural gaps and expand the film’s commercial reach.
News Source: https://cnalifestyle.channelnewsasia.com/entertainment/michelle-yeoh-ne-zha-2-english-dub-469806
(4) ‘Unexpected challenge’: Actor Jet Li in hospital for operation
(Photo Credit: The Star)
Action star Jet Li, 62, sparked concern among fans when he posted videos on Douyin on August 17th showing himself lying in a hospital bed with his eyes closed and later being wheeled into an operating theatre. In cryptic posts accompanying the videos, he mentioned facing an “unexpected challenge” and said his “hardware broke down” and needed “repair,” without initially revealing his specific condition. The following morning, he shared a post-surgery video showing a wound on the right side of his neck.
Li quickly moved to reassure fans about his well-being. In his August 18th video, he showed himself sitting up in bed using a tablet for a work meeting and then standing, stating clearly, “I feel much better now. Let’s tell the others that I’m fine.” Later the same day on Weibo, he posted a photo of himself eating noodles, announcing in Chinese, “I have left the ‘factory’ and am eating something delicious,” thanking fans for their concern and wishing them good health. Hong Kong producer and close friend Tiffany Chen later clarified to China Times that the surgery was to remove a small benign tumour.
The news comes against the backdrop of Li’s known health history; he disclosed a diagnosis of hyperthyroidism in 2010, which he manages with medication. Separately, Li recently revealed on Weibo (August 8th) that he had purchased a Luxeed R7 SUV as a wedding gift for his eldest daughter, Li Si (37), from his first marriage to Huang Qiuyan. Li has been married to former actress Nina Li Chi since 1999, with whom he has two younger daughters, Jane (25) and Jada (22).
News Source: https://www.straitstimes.com/life/entertainment/unexpected-challenge-actor-jet-li-in-hospital-for-operation
(5) Florinda Ho clears photos with fiancé, sparking split rumours after 3-year engagement
(Photo Credit: IG@florinda.ho)
Florinda Ho, daughter of the late Macau casino magnate Stanley Ho, has sparked speculation about ending her nearly three-year engagement to fiancé Douglas after fans noticed the removal of all couple photos from her social media accounts. This includes deleted snapshots of public displays of affection and a November 2024 post celebrating their 1,000th day together. Their last joint public appearance dates back to April at Nicholas Tse’s Hong Kong concert, with Douglas conspicuously absent from subsequent family events.
Doubts about the relationship first arose in February when Douglas missed Florinda’s 36th birthday celebrations and her mother’s birthday gathering in the same month. The pattern continued last month when Florinda shared solo photos from a Bangkok trip – a stark departure from her previous travel posts featuring affectionate moments with Douglas. These absences, combined with the social media purge, have fueled breakup rumors.
The systematic removal of shared memories and Douglas’ extended absence from Florinda’s public life have led many to conclude the couple quietly ended their engagement. While neither party has confirmed the split, the disappearance of digital traces documenting their relationship has become the primary evidence driving public conjecture about their relationship status.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/florinda-ho-clears-photos-with-fiance-sparking-split-rumours-after-3-year-engagement/
(6) ‘Beautiful’ gun-toting China tactical police officer goes viral after hitting 10 bullseyes
(Photo credit: SCMP composite/Douyin/bjd.com)
Chinese police officer Ying Weimin, 26, from Ningbo’s Haishu District, gained viral fame after Zhejiang police released a training video showcasing her exceptional marksmanship. The footage captures her seamlessly assembling her firearm and hitting all 10 bullseye shots with composed precision, a performance netizens described as “smooth as flowing water.” Ying, who dreamed of becoming an officer since childhood, graduated from Zhejiang Police College in 2021 and volunteered for frontline duty, where she honed skills in investigation, arrests, and tactical operations.
Beyond sharpshooting, Ying’s policing excellence includes cracking high-stakes cases like a 2023 cross-border e-commerce fraud operation, where she subdued suspects and secured critical evidence. In 2024, she dismantled a theft ring, recovering tens of thousands of yuan and earning a public banner praising her “prompt response like a tiger.” Drawing from telecom fraud investigations, she pioneered innovative public education—starring in an anti-fraud miniseries (October 2024) that adapted real scam tactics. Her approach bridges enforcement and prevention, emphasizing: “Only by staying closer to the people can police keep them further from being deceived!”
Ying’s competence and charisma have captivated millions online, with comments celebrating her as “heroic,” “beautiful and cool,” and noting the dedication behind “every bullet as a vow to protect life.” Despite the acclaim, she remains grounded, crediting public support: “Thanks to netizens for motivating me to work diligently and do my job even better.”Her dual impact—as a symbol of frontline excellence and a relatable educator—exemplifies modern law enforcement’s blend of tactical prowess and community trust-building.
(7) Zhao Jiamin replaced mid-filming, says her boss Yu Zheng who’s sorry for not being “strong” enough for his artist
(Photo Credit: Drama Panda)
The controversy erupted when producer Yu Zheng publicly alleged unfair treatment of his artist, Zhao Jiamin, during filming of the drama “Brilliant Girlfriend.” Yu Zheng claimed Zhao had formally auditioned and been approved but faced sabotage by the director on day one. He detailed how the director deliberately provoked poor performances and submitted footage to the platform as “evidence” of acting incompatibility. After Yu Zheng’s intervention, Zhao was given a belated 2 a.m. re-audition under unfavourable conditions, ultimately leading to her replacement, a rare move after an official casting announcement.
Zhao’s replacement, He Shiyu, was thrust into the spotlight when Yu Zheng confirmed the casting change while implying her role might be “illicit.” This prompted He Shiyu’s agency, Zhaosen Entertainment, to issue a lengthy statement on August 15th asserting all her roles (including in “Brilliant Girlfriend“) were secured through ”transparent and fair selection processes“ with documented communications. The agency emphasized her credentials, citing her breakout role in “When Flowers Bloom,”but faced skepticism from netizens questioning how a supporting role could justify such contentious replacement tactics.
The dispute ignited fierce online debate, with critics condemning perceived “role-stealing” and power abuse in the industry. Yu Zheng framed his public accusations as protecting artists from having their skills unjustly measured, though his implication about He Shiyu intensified scrutiny toward her. Zhaosen’s statement aimed to shield He Shiyu from smear campaigns, noting fabricated rumors were harming her career. Despite the clarifications, key questions remain unresolved: whether He Shiyu was the director’s original choice (as Yu Zheng suggested) and whether her casting in another project, “Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio,” involved similar controversies. The incident underscores systemic tensions around transparency and power dynamics in Chinese film/TV casting.
News Source: https://dramapanda.com/2025/08/zhao-jiamin-replaced-another-actress-mid-filming-yu-zheng.html
(8) David Tao and Tony Yang Crack Eggs & Hearts in Retro-Inspired MV “In the Morning”
(Photo Credit: Great Entertainment)
David Tao released the music video for his new single “In the Morning” on August 20th, starring actor Tony Yang. The narrative follows Yang’s character who diligently learns cooking through Tao’s daily morning show, creating elaborate egg-based breakfasts to impress his girlfriend. Despite his culinary efforts, the character ultimately realizes his girlfriend never eats the food, symbolizing a failing relationship and prompting him to break free from this repetitive cycle.
Filmed in a modern, greenery-filled home, the MV showcases both Tao and Yang demonstrating knife skills and cooking techniques. Yang, who is an experienced home cook revealed his preference for “fried eggs with crispy edges and runny yolks”. Even served as an impromptu culinary advisor during filming. The pair bonded over creating colorful pepper-egg dishes and shared a joyful scene eating scallion omelets at a table filled with various egg preparations, highlighting their natural chemistry.
Tao expressed gratitude for Yang’s participation, while Yang praised the song’s concept of being “trapped in an inescapable loop.” The director creatively linked food, love, and music through a playful, whimsical lens that surprised even Tao. Musically, “In the Morning” channels 50s/60s Soul and Motown with vintage brass arrangements. Tao humorously noted: “You’ll see all my dishes couldn’t save Yang’s character in the MV, but it’ll bring knowing smiles and warmth to viewers.” The project blends retro musicality with contemporary relationship commentary.
News Source: https://tw.news.yahoo.com/%E9%99%B6%E5%96%86%E9%82%80%E6%A5%8A%E7%A5%90%E5%AF%A7-%E8%B5%B7%E5%81%9A%E8%8F%9C-%E5%A4%A7%E5%B1%95%E5%88%80%E5%B7%A5%E8%88%87%E5%BB%9A%E8%97%9D%E5%8D%BB%E6%82%B2%E5%8A%87%E6%94%B6%E5%A0%B4-070428003.html
(9) Wong Jing Reveals Andy Lau: The ‘Most Dedicated Actor’ Whose Ascetic Discipline Forged an Ultimate Hong Kong Superstar”
(Photo Credit: Oriental Daily)
Film director Wong Jing revealed his 40-year friendship with Andy Lau, beginning during their TVB days and solidifying after collaborating on the 1986 film “Magic Crystal“. Wong attributes Lau’s enduring stardom across the Chinese-speaking world to a simple formula: ”relentless effort and never giving up“. Their professional partnership spans over 30 years and 25 films, with Wong praising Lau as the ”most hardworking actor” he’s known—constantly refining his singing, songwriting, and acting skills despite criticism, ultimately earning three Hong Kong Film Awards.
Wong highlighted Lau’s ”ascetic” discipline, including long-term avoidance of rice (and abstaining from meat when eating rice) and meticulous vitamin supplementation. His vegetarianism stems from family unity: Lau adopted the diet after his wife Judy became vegetarian, and their daughter was exposed to it prenatally, developing no interest in meat. Wong emphasized Lau’s belief that ”families should walk the same path”, leading to their shared plant-based lifestyle.
Despite his global fame, Lau fiercely protects his family’s privacy. Wong shared rare personal anecdotes: Lau and wife Judy (formerly misreported as “Julie”) met secretly early in their relationship, sometimes waiting months between rendezvous. For holidays, Lau takes his family to remote locations to avoid public attention. Wong also lauded their daughter’s achievements, noting she fluently speaks five languages—reflecting a quietly fulfilling family life that contrasts with Lau’s intense public career.
(10) G.E.M. headlines Kai Tak Sports Park despite feud with Pong Nam
(Photo Credit: ELLE)
Hong Kong singer G.E.M. made history as the first female artist to headline concerts at the newly opened Kai Tak Sports Park, performing five sold-out shows starting August 15th. The 34-year-old’s vocal stellar and production quality drew widespread acclaim. However, this milestone reignited a 13-year-old feud stemming from her exclusion from the 2012 Ultimate Song Chart Awards’ “Favorite Female Singer” category. At the time, G.E.M. criticized the awards process, provoking backlash from radio DJs and artists like Pong Nam, who dismissed her comments and lectured her about “humility and gratitude.”
The resurfaced controversy escalated into heated online exchanges, with Pong Nam accusing G.E.M. of ”organized image cleaning” while emphasizing his “integrity” and refusal to “rely on the mainland market.” He dismissed her achievements as “cheap,” criticized her use of cover songs, and claimed he maintained “dignity and taste” despite using expletives. Fans countered by contrasting G.E.M.’s international success with Nam’s career—highlighting his eight-year wait for a first hit song and mocked his unsolicited advice from 2012.
Despite the criticism, G.E.M. received strong celebrity backing, with actors Grace Wong and Sisley Choi praising her shows as “the most moving performances ever experienced.” Nicholas Tse attended her concert mid-tour, celebrating her birthday at a special event where they collaborated on a limited-edition hot dog—later showcased to fans during a livestream. On her actual birthday (August 16), G.E.M. shared heartfelt photos with her team and boyfriend Mark, reflecting on the importance of cherishing meaningful moments amid her professional triumphs.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/g-e-m-headlines-kai-tak-sports-park-despite-feud-with-pong-nam/
(11) Stanley Ho’s son Mario Ho becomes co-owner of NBA’s Boston Celtics
(Photo Credit: inside asian gaming)
Mario Ho, son of the late Macau gambling magnate Stanley Ho, announced he has become a co-owner and member of the Managing Board of the NBA’s Boston Celtics. This follows the acquisition of the franchise by an investor group led by William Chisholm, which includes Ho, previous owner Wyc Grousbeck, Aditya Mittal, and others. The group confirmed the purchase, with Chisholm becoming Governor and Grousbeck remaining as Co-Owner and CEO. Ho expressed immense pride and joy on social media, calling it one of the happiest moments of his life as a lifelong Celtics fan. The deal is reported to be worth a staggering $6.1 billion, setting a new record for the largest buyout in American professional sports history.
The sale comes immediately after the Celtics secured their record-tying 18th NBA championship in 2024. The previous controlling group, led by Wyc Grousbeck who bought the team for 360 million in 2002, initiated the sale. A significant fact or driving the sale is believed to be the enormous financial commitments tied to the team’s star players, Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum. Brown signed a 5−year ,304 million extension in 2023, and Tatum signed a 5-year, $315 million deal after the 2024 championship victory, placing their salaries among the highest in the league.
Retaining both Brown and Tatum has significantly constrained the Celtics’ salary cap flexibility. To maintain their championship-caliber roster going forward, the team will likely have to exceed the NBA’s luxury tax threshold, significantly increasing their payroll costs. This financial pressure coincides with on-court uncertainty, as Jayson Tatum suffered a right Achilles tendon rupture during the recent playoffs, casting doubt on his availability for the start of the upcoming season on October 21st.
News Source: https://asgam.com/2025/08/20/mario-ho-son-of-macaus-stanley-ho-becomes-co-owner-and-board-member-of-nba-team-boston-celtics/
(12) Former ATV executive James Shing passes away at 48
(Photo Credit: The Standard)
James Shing Pan-yu, a 48-year-old former executive of Asia Television (ATV), passed away peacefully on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital. The news was announced in the early hours by his wife, Michelle Chua, who shared that he succumbed to liver cancer while surrounded by his loving family. His death followed a recent and determined battle with the illness after being diagnosed in June of the same year.
Shing’s diagnosis led to intensive care treatment in the ICU, but his condition deteriorated rapidly despite his fight. During his illness, his wife had provided health updates, revealing the emotional impact on their young twin children, who often cried during visits to see their father in the hospital.
Describing his final moments, Chua stated her husband died “in the arms of his loved ones” at precisely 12:37 am, departing with “a gentle smile” and a calm face “as if resting among the clouds, free from suffering.” She expressed gratitude for his “48 precious years.” Details regarding James Shing Pan-yu’s funeral will be communicated by the family at a later date.
News Source: https://www.thestandard.com.hk/hk-and-china-showbiz/article/309189/Former-ATV-executive-James-Shing-passes-away-at-48
