Controversy Surrounds Star Culture Again - Deng Ziqi's Wage Dispute Case Headed for Second Appeal

Last year, singer Deng Ziqi made headlines when she pursued unpaid wages from Star Culture. Her former management company, Bird Music, filed a lawsuit against Star Culture in Shanghai's Changning District Court. They alleged that Deng Ziqi's participation in the show "Creation of the Gods" which aired from June to September 2016 on Jiangsu TV was never backed by a contract or payment of ¥16.3 million.

However, Changning District Court ruled it lacked jurisdiction and transferred the case to Shanghai's First Intermediate People's Court. According to court records, the First Intermediate People's Court held multiple hearings from late last year to June of this year, but the verdict from the first trial has yet to be made public.

According to information from the Tianyancha App, Shanghai Star Culture Media Co., Ltd. recently released a notice of a second trial. Bird Music Limited is the appellant, while Star Culture is the appellee. This case involves a contractual dispute related to performances and is scheduled for a second hearing on November 1st at Shanghai High People's Court.

It's worth noting that "Creation of the Gods" is an original electronic music variety show produced in collaboration with Jiangsu TV and Star Culture. One of Star Culture's most prominent programs is "The Voice of China." Deng Ziqi terminated her contract with Bird Music Limited on March 7, 2019, and she is currently managed by Deng Ziqi's studio.