Top Chinese celebrity: Debuted from Running Man

Chapter 375 Gu Qing's Enrollment in the Domestic Entertainment Industry is Over (5.3k)
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Why would state media retweet this?

Gu Qing's fingers tightened unconsciously.
Not to mention Xu Wei, even he himself couldn't figure it out.

The central bank's move completely changed the nature of the situation.

His book, "The Road to Education," might have initially been seen as another carefully planned publicity stunt in the entertainment industry, or a temporary escape from the limelight due to public pressure.

At this moment, however, it has been given a meaning far beyond its original meaning, almost being placed on a pedestal that must be carried out and can only succeed without failure.

This is far more significant and serious than the grand farewell party held for Hu Ge after he was betrayed by his agent not long ago.

Back then, Lao Hu could still endure a few months. If he really couldn't adapt or had other plans, he could find an excuse to return quietly. Although there was discussion in the public, there was always room for maneuver.

But what about him?
The official media's screen full of praise—"role model for youth," "devoted to learning," "a breath of fresh air in the industry"—were not given these high praises for nothing.
It was an invisible lighthouse, its beams shining on him and blocking all his escape routes.

If we back down now, all the positive image we've cultivated will crumble instantly.

"Boss, in my opinion, there are three main factors."

Xu Wei's voice was noticeably hoarse and filled with self-reproach. He took a deep breath, trying to make his analysis sound more coherent.

"First and foremost, the chaos in the entertainment industry, especially the fan culture, has intensified in recent years, prompting official media to criticize it repeatedly and show an urgent desire to rectify the situation."

They need a positive role model, a benchmark that can stand the test of time and be widely recognized.

He paused, then continued, "Secondly, it's about your own image, boss. You've been on the Spring Festival Gala, actively engaged in charity, and vigorously promoted traditional culture such as Hanfu and opera. These all align very well with mainstream values ​​and are the type of artist that the authorities are happy to see."

Finally, you also have a huge influence among young people, and your every word and action can attract widespread attention.

This "going to school" incident has caused quite a stir. Official media might think that your desire to attend school is the perfect opportunity to use you to set rules and give a wake-up call to the entire industry.

Xu Wei's tone grew increasingly bitter as he spoke, as if each word carried a heavy burden. "I overlooked the possibility of official media getting involved and only focused on the open and covert attacks within the industry... Boss, the responsibility this time rests entirely on my shoulders."

"Alright, now is not the time to assign blame."

Gu Qing's voice had returned to its usual calm, "What's done is done, and no amount of self-blame will change anything."

The most urgent task is to figure out the next steps and how to maximize the benefits of this matter.

The key is which school will be most beneficial for me.

"Boss, you...you really plan to go?"

Xu Wei still held a sliver of hope, "How about I issue a statement saying it was all my team's operational error, that we over-interpreted your meaning, and take all the blame..."

"Brother Xu, calm down."

Gu Qing said calmly, "Who would believe this kind of statement? Brother Hu has been tricked by his agent, so he has to go back to school now."

This time, my company 'strongly recommended' and the official media 'endorsed' me. With these double endorsements, where is there any room for me to explain?

"It's just going to school, no big deal, I'll go."

Other artists might be afraid of losing popularity after leaving the spotlight, or that when they return in two or three years, everything will have changed and they will be forgotten.

But does Gu Qing need to be afraid?

For the first two years, art schools generally do not allow students to go out to film.
But they didn't say we couldn't release songs, did they?

Didn't they say we couldn't leave the school grounds to participate in activities?

He could easily release a new song every month to maintain his exposure in the music industry;

On weekends, make an appearance in the esports scene, watch a match, or fly to a friend's concert as a surprise guest;
Will he lack topics and popularity?
As for the lack of film and television works?

That's even simpler.

He could even pick up a camera and film a weekly vlog on campus, documenting the campus life of a top student, and post it on his blog or Bilibili.

Just imagine,
Will a "campus documentary variety show" featuring top-tier celebrities every week not be a hit?
I'm afraid that when the series continues, there will be more people following it than there are some TV dramas.

He has a hundred ways to maintain or even increase his popularity without violating school rules.

For Gu Qing, going to school might not be a cage, but simply a different path.

"Boss, in the end, it's my fault that you've been ruined..."

Xu Wei's voice was still full of guilt, but he also understood that the most important thing at this moment was to make amends and to find the best way out for Gu Qing.

"Boss, have all three universities extended offers to us so far?"

Xu Wei forced himself to cheer up and get back into work mode.

"Ah."

Gu Qing rubbed her temples. "My phone has been ringing off the hook all day."

"The Central Academy of Drama, the Beijing Film Academy, the Shanghai Theatre Academy—almost every artist I've met even once has called, hoping I'll choose their alma mater."

"That's not hard to understand."

Xu Wei forced a smile, "After all, boss, you are now a top star in the Chinese entertainment industry. Being admitted to any school would be a huge boost to its reputation and a great advertisement."

Since they're both interested, our negotiation terms will be easier to discuss. Boss, which one do you personally prefer?

"The Central Academy of Drama and the Beijing Film Academy."

Gu Qing pondered for a moment, "I know more people at these two schools, and our relationships are deeper."

The Central Academy of Drama goes without saying.

Chen Sicheng and Tong Liya persuaded him more than once, hoping that he could become an alumnus.

Director Lu Yang, who had just finished working with Lu Yang on "Brotherhood of Blades," also called personally. His father is a doctoral supervisor at the Central Academy of Drama, so he has considerable influence.

Tong Liya's best friend from university also teaches at the Central Academy of Drama. It can be said that her network of connections at the Central Academy of Drama is already quite solid.

The same applies to Nortel.

His mentor in his acting career, Song Wen, and Zhou Yiwei, who later guided him to break through in acting, both taught at the Beijing Film Academy.

The bond between these two teachers who had taught him was extraordinary.

No matter which school he chooses, he will receive good support.

not to mention,
Given his current status and influence, wherever he goes, he will undoubtedly be treated with great care by the school administration.

"It's good that it's not the Shanghai Theatre Academy." Xu Wei visibly breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this.

"Haha, if Brother Chi hears me say that, he'll nag me for three days and three nights."

Gu Qing was amused by Xu Wei's relieved tone, which eased the tense atmosphere considerably.

"Since it's these two schools..."

Xu Wei's mind raced. "Boss, let me ask you another, more practical question. Among the people who called to persuade you, which side—the Central Academy of Drama or the Beijing Film Academy—has more connections and higher-ranking figures?"

He paused for a moment, then explained, "To put it bluntly, whichever of the three universities you choose, you will inevitably offend the other two groups of people."

Since it's impossible to please everyone, it's better to choose the party that shows the most sincerity and has the strongest network, minimizing potential resentment and securing the best possible admission conditions for you.

"Nortel has the upper hand in terms of both the number of calls and their significance."

Gu Qing recalled, "Even the national directors Zhang and Feng called in person, as did many other top film stars."

At the Central Academy of Drama, although the relationship is close, the scale doesn't seem as large.

"It seems that Beijing Film Academy is determined to win."

Xu Wei analyzed, "In my personal opinion, Beijing Film Academy is indeed a good choice."

In recent years, the influence of the Beijing Film Academy system in the film industry has been at its zenith, forming a self-contained and deeply entrenched group of directors, screenwriters, and actors.

If you, boss, were to join the Beijing Film Academy and be labeled as a 'direct descendant of the Beijing Film Academy,' with your status and popularity, you would surely gain the strong support of the academic community.

In the future, access to top-tier resources and leading roles in films by renowned directors will be much smoother.

"Of course, with your current achievements, boss, you might not even be interested in these resources."

Xu Wei then changed the subject, "Going to the Central Academy of Drama is also excellent. The Central Academy of Drama's teaching style is more focused on drama and traditional acting, producing actors with solid skills who are highly favored by awards."

Boss, your image is already officially recognized. If you could also have a resume from the Central Academy of Drama, your relationship with the mainstream circles would definitely be further enhanced.

Moreover, actors who graduate from the Central Academy of Drama often have an advantage in competing for film awards, which will greatly benefit your future efforts to win the three major awards and even to participate in international film festivals.

Xu Wei analyzed the pros and cons clearly and thoroughly: "In short, Beijing Film Academy is the most beneficial to your current commercial value and the integration of film industry resources."

The Central Academy of Drama would be more helpful for your long-term artistic pursuits, award accumulation, and international reputation.

After handing the choice back to Gu Qing, Xu Wei held his breath and waited.

After pondering for a long time, Gu Qing finally made a decision from a more practical perspective: "Let's go talk."

My principle is simple: I'll go to whichever college offers me the most freedom and the best, most lenient treatment.

He has many "alternative plans" to maintain his popularity, but it would be better to act openly and legitimately and take on high-quality endorsements. He wants to turn this forced "exile" into a paid "vacation".

"Understood, boss! Don't worry, I will do my best to negotiate the most lenient terms."

Xu Wei's voice regained its usual calmness and firmness.

"Ah."

Gu Qing responded, then thought of something else and her tone turned cold, "Also, from now on, you don't need to pay attention to any of the company's instructions."

All team expenses, including public relations costs, will henceforth be borne by me personally. Since they tried to backstab me and play dirty tricks, they shouldn't blame me for making them suffer the consequences.

Do you really think he wouldn't dare to enroll?

Did they really think they could force him to comply in this way?

Go to your thesis defense!
Gu Qing wanted to see if he could actually go months without taking on new roles or shooting commercials once he entered the campus.
With the company's huge investment of resources frozen, who will be the first to break down and cry for help?

"Understood, boss!"

Xu Wei nodded emphatically, a hint of satisfaction in his voice. He knew exactly who his true benefactors were.

……

In the next few days,

A silent "talent war" is quietly unfolding between two top art institutions.

As Gu Qing's plenipotentiary representative, Xu Wei conducted multiple rounds of intensive communication and negotiations with the admissions offices and relevant personnel of both universities.

For ordinary students, the university naturally has strict rules. Freshmen and sophomores must lay a solid foundation and are strictly prohibited from going out to film.

However, for exceptional talents like Gu Qing, who have already achieved great success in the industry and possess their own following and influence, the rules can naturally be flexibly adapted.

This is similar to the introduction of high-tech talent, which is incomparable to ordinary enrollment.

Gu Qing is undoubtedly the most valuable "unconventional talent" in the entertainment industry.

While Xu Wei was arguing for the admission terms, Gu Qing herself was also busy.

He first appeared at the LPL debut of the new season of IG team at the invitation of Principal Wang, as previously agreed, to watch the game as one of the club owners.

The trip went smoothly.
However, when the game ended and he walked out of the stadium with the crowd,
The reporters, who had been waiting for a long time, swarmed in from all directions like sharks smelling blood or a zombie horde from an apocalyptic movie, surrounding Gu Qingtuan.

The night was hazy and the lights were chaotic. All that could be seen were countless pairs of eager, even green-glowing eyes, and a dense array of microphones and recorders reaching out.

The commotion startled Principal Wang, who had just stepped out the door. He thought he had encountered a "simple and honest" business competitor launching a surprise attack, so he instinctively shrank back and quickly called for his bodyguards.

Fortunately, the alliance officials anticipated that Gu Qing's appearance might cause a disturbance and deployed a large number of security personnel in advance, which barely managed to control the situation and prevent any accidents from happening.

"Gu Qing! Gu Qing! Is it true that you're going to school, as the news is circulating online?"

"Is this a malicious publicity stunt by your team?"

"As a top celebrity in the entertainment industry, are you really willing to give up everything to study?"

"Did you draw on Hu Jintao's experience in making this decision? Why did you all choose to pursue further studies at this time?"

Faced with a barrage of questions, Gu Qing did not choose to avoid or remain silent.

He calmly removed his sunglasses and, under the protection of security personnel, moved forward with difficulty while responding with a smile:

"Yes, I do have the idea of ​​studying in the higher education system, and this is not just hype."

My team is currently in active communication with several universities, hoping to secure a make-up exam opportunity.

I am quite confident in my learning abilities.

He paused briefly, then specifically mentioned Brother Hu: "As for Brother Xiaoyao, he is a senior I greatly respect."

His "Chinese Paladin" series was my gateway to learning, and his attitude of choosing to calm down and pursue further studies at the peak of his career has also deeply inspired me.

I will try my best to emulate him.

Upon receiving confirmation from Gu Qing himself, the reporters instantly erupted in excitement!
“It’s actually true?!”

"Is this top celebrity at the height of their career really going to temporarily leave the world of fame and fortune and return to school?!"

When this explosive news, accompanied by live video, swept across the entire internet, it instantly ignited all social media platforms.

"Wow! Gu Qingzhen is a real man! I'm a fan now! I thought it was just another publicity stunt to attract fans!"

"It's over, the Chinese entertainment industry is finished! We used to have Gu Qing to watch, but now that he's gone, how am I supposed to eat with all those mediocre actors left?"

"Awesome! Giving up being a top star to actually study and hone his acting skills! If there were more artists like this in the entertainment industry, how could we worry about bad movies dominating the scene!"

In an instant, passersby's favorability towards Gu Qing skyrocketed. Gu Qing's fans, while shocked and reluctant to part with her, were even more moved and supportive.

According to online rumors, Gu Qing may not have any new works published for the next two or three years after his departure.

then,

The film "Detective Chinatown," whose box office growth had already plateaued, has seen an astonishing surge in viewership, with many watching it multiple times.

Countless fans and casual viewers moved by this act spent their own money to go to the cinema to watch the film repeatedly, supporting Gu Qing's "last work" with real money, which caused the box office curve of "Detective Chinatown" to rise strongly again.

Meanwhile, another group of people were overjoyed.

"Hahaha! Gu Gou is really going to school?!"

"Heaven is on my side! The plan is working!"

"It's stable! This huge rock that was weighing on our heads has finally been removed!"

Those rivals and their teams who had been suppressed by Gu Qing or viewed him as a potential threat were all celebrating their victory.
I feel that all their efforts and resources to "praise him to death" were worthwhile; they finally managed to send this big shot away!
However, they did not realize that this "praise to death" strategy was tantamount to drinking poison to quench thirst.

While desperately trying to elevate Gu Qing, they have also inadvertently raised the public's standards for judging the character of celebrities.

With Gu Qing, this "other people's child," as a benchmark, the audience and public opinion have a different perspective on other artists.

Young idols, in particular, will be viewed with even more harshness and scrutiny.

The backlash from this may soon become apparent.

……

Time flies by, and on the last day of the Spring Festival film season, Gu Qing is blessed with double happiness.

First of all, thanks to countless "farewell viewings", the cumulative box office of "Detective Chinatown" has officially broken the 2.5 billion mark!
Not only did it surpass the record of 24.41 billion yuan held by "Monster Hunt 1" and become the highest-grossing Chinese film, it also ended the 21-year monopoly of imported blockbusters such as "Furious 7" on the top of the box office charts in mainland China!

Given the film's continued strong market performance, the State Administration of Radio, Film and Television unanimously decided to extend the screening period of "Detective Chinatown".

This means that its box office record will continue to be broken, creating a new height for domestic films.

The other piece of good news concerns Gu Qing's future.

With the added prestige of being the highest-grossing Chinese film in history, the competition between Beijing Film Academy and the Central Academy of Drama for talent has intensified.

In the end, Beijing Film Academy demonstrated unprecedented determination and courage, offering an incredibly generous offer that other universities privately described as "shameless"!

In Xu Wei's incredulous tone when he reported afterward, "Boss, I barely had to haggle, and they just 'surrendered'—their terms were ridiculously good!"

usually,

Students at the Beijing Film Academy are only allowed to take on acting internships in their third year of university.

But this time, their condition for Gu Qing was that he only needed to be a freshman!

This means that as long as Gu Qing is willing to become a member of the Beijing Film Academy, he can enjoy almost complete freedom in filming and work arrangements, and his studies and career will hardly interfere with each other.

of course,

The phrase "freshman year is fine" does not mean that Gu Qing can remain completely hidden.

The school's only requirement was that he participate in as many courses and campus activities as possible during the first three months after enrollment.

This was both to allow him to truly integrate into and experience the atmosphere of the Beijing Film Academy, and to silence any potential criticisms from outsiders regarding "formalistic schooling."

Three months later, the conditions became extremely lenient: students only needed to attend school one day a week.

After entering the second year, the requirement was further relaxed to once a month on campus.

By the time students reach their junior or senior year, they are essentially free to focus on graduating.

Faced with such a clause that was almost "tailor-made for him" and full of utmost sincerity, Gu Qing and his team had no reason to refuse.

The following evening, an explosive news story suddenly topped the trending search list, even overshadowing the official announcement of famous singer Wang Feng's meticulously prepared concert:

Breaking News! Gu Qing Confirmed to Enroll at Beijing Film Academy!

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(End of this chapter)