TVB New Talents Earn a Base Salary of Just Over $5000: Actors Not Allowed to Take Public Transportation

"China Entrepreneur" magazine states: From the perspective of the film and television business sector, the lack of innovative themes and the slow turnover of actor generations are chronic issues for TVB. The issue of generational turnover among actors is closely related to TVB's treatment. Financial program host Song Nan mentioned in a video that in TVB's salary pyramid, except for a few top artists and acting professionals, most newcomers' contracts are paid on a monthly basis, with a monthly base salary ranging from HKD 6000 to 10,000 (approximately RMB 5494 to 9157).

"Beyond the base salary, the rest is calculated based on appearance fees, but many mid-level actors can only get one or two shows a year. Moreover, these actors are not allowed to take on external roles because TVB signs exclusive contracts, some of which last for up to 10 years. If breached, a large penalty must be paid," revealed Lin Huaquan.

Even some industry insiders disclosed to "China Entrepreneur" that TVB's treatment of mid-level actors is "all about face, not substance." These actors, who receive working-class wages, are required not to take public transportation but can only take taxis, so as not to give the public the impression that their treatment is inadequate.