Hou Minghao has recently dismissed rumours that he refused to join the drama “Key to the Phoenix Heart” due to disagreements over cast billing.
In a statement released on 14 June, the actor’s studio addressed the speculation, saying that it has seriously infringed upon Hou’s legitimate rights and interests.
“Regarding the recent online rumours about Mr. Hou Minghao’s ‘fight for top billing’ as well as malicious attacks, defamation, and personal attacks, we have secured evidence. We urge the relevant publishers to immediately delete the infringing content and cease all inflammatory and rumour-mongering activities. If they refuse to stop, we will resolutely pursue their legal responsibilities according to law,” the company stated.
It stressed that Hou has always focused on his performance, respected his partners, and adhered to his professional duties.
“We oppose any form of hype surrounding top billing, will not waste creative energy on issues of authorship, and do not condone creating antagonism and harming the industry ecosystem through such topics,” the studio added.
The studio also stressed that it strictly abided by the spirit of the “Notice on Regulating the Attribution of Actors in TV Dramas (Web Dramas)” jointly issued recently by the China Television Drama Production Industry Association, the China Online Audio-Visual Program Service Association, and the Actors Committee of the China Radio and Television Social Organisations Federation, and resolutely resist issues such as “fighting for top billing”.
“As industry practitioners, we are willing to work with our colleagues to return to the essence of creation and jointly maintain a clean and healthy industry environment,” the company added.
(Photo Source: Hou Minghao IG)