TVB Entertainment News

Pastor Enoch Lam held his stand up comedy YEAH SHOW and invited former TVB General Manager Stephen Chan to perform a song at his show. Stephen performed the Cantonese song Unreserved Love 愛是不保留 by beginning the song with a Cantonese opera voice and won applause from everyone in the audience. Regarding his own song performance, Stephen appeared to have lacked confidence, he told reporters: "I can only say it's so far so good, I know I got off key." Although he resigned from TVB, he still expressed he will strongly help TVB advertise when speaking of Dooms Day. He asked the audience: "Do you all like When Heaven Burns or War and Beauty? Then you really have to go on TVB.com to vote!"

TVB General Manager Stephen Chan will officially be resigning from his position at the end of this month (February 29th). The day before yesterday, TVB arranged a farewell dinner for him at a hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui East -- each member of management chipped in 500 HKD a piece to arrange a 5 table dinner for him. Most of the TVB executives were in attendance at the dinner, including newly promoted Deputy Chairman Norman Leung, Head of Production Catherine Tsang, Head of External Affairs Tsang Sing Ming, as well as the two execs who were rumored to be on bad terms with Stephen -- General Manager Mark Lee and Head of Production & Resources Virginia Lok. Even though Stephen Chan has stated in Media interviews that he has not decided on his future career path yet, Norman Leung revealed at the dinner that Stephen has promised that within the next 2 years, he will not work for any other multi-media company.

Looking relaxed and well-rested from having the last few months off, Stephen Chan arrived at the dinner dressed casually, smiling and happily greeting the waiting reporters. Asked about his feelings on leaving TVB, he stated: “In the 30 years that I’ve been working, 18 of those years were for TVB, so of course I will have sentimental feelings, but at the same time, I also feel excited about embracing a new way of life – the feelings are a little bit contradictory, but definitely not sad. There are many colleagues and people I’ve collaborated with whom I will miss dearly – even though at times, our opinions on issues differed, but our ultimate goal was the same.”

In early March, Stephen will participate in Pastor Lam Yi Lok’s stand-up comedy show, where he will perform 3 hymns, then after that he is planning to continue his studying abroad in Europe -- after that is completed, then he will consider future career direction.

Ever since the news of Stephen Chan’s resignation became public, there have been endless rumors of various media companies trying to recruit him to join their companies – in fact, he has admitted himself that throughout this time, he has received invitations from various organizations. Facing the departure of one of his GMs, deputy chairman Norman Leung expressed that Stephen will definitely be missed: “He was one of my most capable workers – his departure will definitely be TVB’s loss, however we respect his decision. Stephen did tell me that within the next 2 years, he won’t accept any job offers from other multi-media companies and I respect his promise.” Mr. Leung also expressed that he has not found a replacement for Stephen’s GM position yet.

Excerpts from his lecture at Hong Kong Baptist University and interview with Eileen Cha

What are Stephen Chan’s feelings towards leaving TVB? Working at the company for 18 years, does he have any experiences and lessons he can share with others? Stephen did not say very much at the farewell dinner day before yesterday – however, earlier on, during a lecture at Hong Kong Baptist University as well as an interview with radio host (and one of our [ND Daily’s] columnists] Eileen Cha, he had actually said a lot…..

.--- While introducing TVB’s history to students at HK Baptist University, Stephen Chan took the opportunity to show his ‘fondness’ toward his ‘maternal home’:

“Let’s pretend that I make a salary of $6 – if another television station were to pay me $10 but TVB only pays me $6.50, I would still choose to stay at TVB.”

.--- When a student asked him how he maintains his youthful appearance, Stephen went into a discourse about life principles (a discourse that appeared to have ‘hidden meaning’):

“In addition to the basic tenants of rising and going to bed early as well as not drinking or smoking, the most important thing is to maintain a pleasant state of mind when faced with other people’s idle gossip about you. In fact, there is no harm in taking the ‘ostrich approach’ [TN: meaning ‘bury one’s head in the sand’] – no need to take things too much to heart.”

.--- During the lecture at the university as well as his subsequent interview with Eileen Cha, Stephen expressed that he regretted hosting the program《Be My Guest》:

“If at that time I had thought things through more clearly, I would not have chosen to host the 159 episode 《Be My Guest》…. I never thought that the exposure in front of the camera would cause me to completely lose my privacy.”

.--- In addition to providing an ‘explanation’ for his decisions, Stephen also shared his experience working at TVB with the students at the university:

“Earlier, due to the dispute with the Big 5 record companies, the ratings for 《Jade Solid Gold》were very low. At one point, we were thinking about giving up on the program, but then we had to consider that it’s necessary for a television station to have a music program – it was sort of like ‘chicken ribs’ [TN: meaning ‘something of little worth or value that one is reluctant to give up’]. We already did not have too much funding invested in sports-related programs, so we definitely couldn’t give up music programs too!”

.--- During his interview with Eileen Cha, Stephen was asked whether going through the whole corruption scandal experience has caused him to be more ‘fearful’, to which he ‘firmly’ responded:

“Facing this world alone by myself, there isn’t much to be afraid of! The only thing I’m ‘scared’ of is cockroaches, especially flying cockroaches…truly very scared!”

Stephen Chan has been with TVB for 18 years and has served as the General Manager for 7 years. His decision to resign has been accepted, but if he ever does decide to return to TVB, he will make TVB his first choice. He plans to travel abroad to study language. However, there are rumors circulating that Stephen is actually planning to start his own company and stir up another turbulence in the television industry. Yesterday morning at 9am, Stephen drove back to TVB City and approximately 9:30am, he met the press with TVB Deputy Director of Foreign Affairs (Tsang Sing Ming). In just a short 5 minute interview, Stephen appeared very relaxed.

It was rumored he was going to leave April 2012? He said his resignation date is still under negotiation, but is certain that everything will go smoothly. The other day, it was publicly announced that Norman Leung will takeover as the chairman next year, asked if his resignation has something to do with the change in executives? He repeated himself three times that there is no relation, and expressed he feels gratified for Norman to be the next chairman. Norman has been with TVB for 8 years and has had great success. Under his management, TVB will have even better developments. Stephen was asked if his resignation had something to do with the corruption case he experienced last year? He stressed that there is no connection, it is two different matters.

It was rumored Stephen will be starting his own company? He repeated himself once again that he does not have plans to do that. His resignation is for learning purposes. Once his learning process is over, he will return to HK and if by that time, he still has interest in working in the entertainment business, he will first send his resume to TVB. If other companies want him, TVB is still his first choice.

Stephen has been with TVB for 18 years, he expressed he is grateful that he had such good colleagues and jobs. He also had a good supportive boss and board members. Over the many years, he benefited greatly. As for who will replace his position? Stephen said when TVB has an arrangement, they will announce. TVB's system is very complete, they will not be affected because of one person leaving. He reveals in the future he will be going back and forth between HK and foreign countries. The first stop is to travel to Silicon Valley and Las Vegas in the United States.

TVB's Stocks tumbles

After Stephen Chan suddenly announced his resignation yesterday morning, TVB's stock price plunged 4.6% before the afternoon lunch break started. For the entire day, the stock price fell 3% down to $44.75.

Recently, TVB has had to face numerous problems that seem to be emerging almost daily now, both externally from outside sources as well as internally amongst its management and artists.

In addition to the royalty dispute with the Big 4 record companies that the company is still dealing with, there have also been reports lately that other TV stations are actively ‘poaching’ their artists as well as behind the scenes people. Following the departure of one of TVB’s top execs (Ho Lai Chuen, who was the former head of TVB’s non-drama production department) a few months ago, a group of scriptwriters also tendered their resignations a few days ago, causing a ‘leaving the nest’ syndrome within the company. Add to that the fact that various artists have publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the company, the most recent one being veteran ‘green leaf’ artist Lee Kwok Lun, who, after having served TVB for close to 30 years, recently criticized the company for its disregard and lack of respect toward veteran artists. As if that weren’t enough, a few of TVB’s ‘biological’ sons / daughters, such as Charmaine Sheh, Steven Ma, etc. have decided not to renew their contracts in favor of seeking better opportunities elsewhere [in the Mainland]. With all these issues brewing, it looks like the ‘television empire’s’ status as Number One Brother in the HK TV industry is in serious danger of collapsing.

Stephen Chan’s responsibilities completely restored

With the danger of losing many more employees a serious threat due to aggressive ‘poaching’ by newly formed free to air TV stations, TVB’s Vice-Chairman Mona Fong became gravely concerned and felt the need to take action in the hopes of salvaging the situation. Therefore, an emergency meeting of top management was called to discuss the situation. According to an inside source, Ms. Fong has appointed one of her ‘favorites’, GM Stephen Chan, to deal with the situation, despite his corruption case being in appeals status. It is said that Stephen’s responsibilities, a portion of which were suspended during the corruption trial, have been completed reinstated, including directly overseeing the Artists Department. In addition to the ‘official’ approval of Stephen Chan’s responsibilities being restored, it is reported that other topics of discussion during yesterday’s emergency meeting included the reports of ‘poaching’ by other companies, as well as the ‘problem’ of many artists expressing their discontent with TVB lately and refusing to renew their contracts. There are also rumors that an internal review of possible ‘mishandling’ of situations with artists was also discussed.

Virginia Lok: “There are no artists leaving!”

When asked about the situation, TVB’s director of foreign affairs Tsang Sing Ming confirmed to our reporter that Stephen Chan has officially taken over all of the responsibilities that he had previously [prior to the corruption scandal]. As for director of production and resources Virginia Lok, whose main responsibility is to oversee the Artists Department, she emphasized that the Artists Department has always been under Stephen Chan’s oversight: “Even though he did not participate directly in matters related to the artists when he returned last year, he did read all of the reports that were turned over to him from our meetings.” Ms Lok also confirmed that she has received notification of Stephen Chan officially taking over the Artists Department again: “Yes, in fact, I went up to meet with him earlier today. It’s actually better for me that he oversees the department again, as some situations can be resolved quicker.”

Due to ‘rumors’ that someone in management ‘will be held accountable’ for the recent flux of artists, behind the scenes people, and execs leaving the nest, the reporter asked Ms Lok if she was ‘questioned’ about the situation, to which she calmly replied: “There are no artists leaving!” (Some of the siu sangs have expressed the desire to leave?) “For first-line artists, contract negotiations can take a longer amount of time because the company needs to discuss with them their plans for the future and career development, so the renewal process generally takes longer.”

Following Stephen Chan's mighty return to TVB, rumors circulated that Stephen and Virgina Lok's split in 'Parties' have started repeating history with a huge fire of war. Virgina once said in court that someone was "selling artists into slavery". Yesterday she denied resigning to avoid Stephen, she said: "How is that possible? No, we waited so hard and long for this perfect ending. He is fine now, the spirit revives, why would I resign? I hope there won't be any more unhappy events that arises. (Have you contacted Stephen?) I sent him a SMS. I know he'll be back to work on Monday, and since then I haven't bothered him. We'll talk when he's back at work. (Wong He of the 'Stephen Party' was dinged out earlier?) TVB has never changed on Wong He, we are in a shortage (of artists). It is just he wanted to shoot Mainland series and the schedule didn't fit. As long as the right series comes along, he'll be back, TVB always welcomes him."

It was said Virgina Lok's favorites including Raymond Lam, Michael Tse, and Linda Chung may not get any awards at the end of the year due to Virgina's lost in power. Towards this, Raymond Lam said: "It is always rumored like that. To me, awards are not important, the most important is to have recognition from audience."

Depending on Ghetto Justice and the upcoming Queen of All for TV Queen, Myolie Wu expressed: "There has never been a split in parties, I am not worried about awards, most important is to do my own part."

Wayne Lai, Steven Ma, Fala Chen and Tavia Yeung were all rumored to be in the "Stephen Party". Wayne Lai expressed: "I have to clarify that actually during No Regrets, I had more performances and had more communication with Mr. Chan, but when it comes to being familiar with him and saying I'm part of his party, just lifts me up too high. Also Forensic Heroes III has not broadcast yet, I only have 50% confidence of getting TV King. There are a lot of other factors for TV King, including the amount of votes and public opinion. Of course I hope to be crowned TV King for 3 consecutive years and create history, but I support Raymond Lam and Kevin Cheng. (They are part of the 'Virgina Party' that is losing power!) Don't have to separate it that clearly."

Said to be in the 'Stephen Party', Fala Chen stressed she is not in any party. Asked if she feels her chances of winning TV Queen is higher? She said: "There are still several months before the TVB Anniversary. The anniversary series haven't even started airing yet, it is too early to say. Awards is not about the executives, it is about the role and TV ratings."

Steven Ma frankly said towards work, the fitting level wasn't high with Miss Lok, he said: "I admit that last July when I discussed my contract with Miss Lok, it did not fit well, and I had no jobs for a whole month. Later, I got Mr. Chan and Catherine Tsang's help, Mr. Chan even promised Apprentice Chef for me. Mr. Chan have in fact fulfilled many of my wishes. (Do you have confidence to win awards?) I do not know if I'm in the 'Stephen Party', but I am leaving it to fate for awards. My mentor is Catherine Tsang."

The court ruled TVB General Manager Stephen Chan's corruption case not guilty, with all of the authority in TVB returned to him. The changes in the TVB executives are still a concern. Stephen was entangled in the case for 18 months, leaving those in the 'Stephen Party' having a major decline in jobs due to losing their back up support. The flag leader and the most loyal to Stephen was Wong He who even planned to terminate his TVB contract early and compensate the money. Today the rebirth of Stephen also means the rebirth of those in the 'Stephen Party'. Patrick Tang, who calls Stephen 'Honey' shouted excitedly: "Mr. Chan is free!" Wong He put his heavy burden away and started smiling from the heart again. Aside from Stephen's public expression of gratitude, a large group of Netizens congratulated him as well. Now that Stephen's corruption case is settled, he can participate in supervising artists' work at any time.

What's interesting is Wong He got a lot more congratulating messages from Netiznes than Stephen. Netizens praised that he is loyal, hoping that he'll get good payback and quickly renew his TVB contract. Wong He accepted an interview and said: "Mr. Chan have already expressed his feelings to us, I don't have any complements. We will resume working hard on our own work and life. Thank you all." Asked if he hopes to renew his contract with TVB after having so many blessings from Netizens? He expressed he has no comment.

Patrick Tang expressed his excitement to Stephen's good news. Last night he accepted an interview before he performed in his musical: "I am happy that Stephen is not guilty, getting his freedom back is priceless. He is my mentor, taught me a lot. Many colleagues support him too. With all of our energy, he got a fair ruling."

Steven Ma is also happy to hear Stephen is ok. He felt Hong Kong law is very fair, and hopes that Stephen will continue to lead TVB for good development.

Two invoices for the same gala but with a HK$550,000 difference were sent to one of the three defendants in the TVB corruption trial, the District Court was told.

Candy Leung Yuen-shan, accounts manager at the TVB sales department, said her former superior and head of business development, Wilson Chan Wing-suen, instructed her in November 2009 to issue an invoice for HK$5.2 million to Idea Empire, run by another of the accused, Edthancy Tseng Pei-kun.

However, when Idea Empire failed to pay, Chan asked Leung to issue another invoice to the personal e-mail of Tseng.

This time it was for HK$4.65 million, or HK$550,000 less, with a payment deadline of December 14, 2009.

The court was told earlier that Melco, the gala sponsor, had agreed to pay TVB HK$5.2 million.

Kwong Siu-kuen, assistant supervisor at the TVB accounting department, found it "strange" when she received the check for HK$4.65 million from Idea Empire in January 2010, since it differed from the earlier invoice of HK$5.2 million.

She later discovered the sales department had acted against normal procedures and reported this to her superior.

Former TVB accountant Katie Lai Siu- yung said yesterday if the company wanted to hire Idea Empire for logistics, a form had to be completed and processed.

She did not handle such an application.

Wilson Chan, 63, and Tseng, 28, both deny misappropriating HK$550,000 from funds due and payable to TVB from Melco.

TVB general manager Stephen Chan Chi-wan, 51, denies separate graft charges.

A TVB assistant general manager told the District Court it is "inconceivable" that HK$1.2 million was paid for logistics to an outside company for the broadcaster's anniversary show.
Au Wai-lam was testifying on the 13th day of the corruption trial of TVB general manager Stephen Chan Chi-wan, Idea Empire Advertising and Production company director Edthancy Tseng Pei- kun and TVB former head of business development Wilson Chan Wing-suen.

They have pleaded not guilty.

Au said he questioned why the Jade Singers Celebrate TVB Anniversary show was being shot in Macau in late October 2009.

But Wilson Chan said they found a sponsor paying "a big stack of money."

However, crew members complained about the vessel, transportation, hotel and meals for crew and artists, while Melco Crown Entertainment was dissatisfied because it said it did not get value for money for its sponsorship, including "inadequate" shots of the hotel.

Cantopop singer Leo Ku Kui-kei was sent to Macau - with Au's endorsement - to do extra shooting before the show could be aired a month later.

Au then discussed the contract for the show with TVB group general manager Mark Lee Po-on.

They asked Wilson Chan to present the contract in November 2009, but it was not until early January 2010 that Chan handed over a contract involving Melco, TVB and Idea Empire, and a service agreement between TVB and Idea Empire.

Au said he found the two contracts suspicious since the company was not aware of their existence.

TVB received HK$4 million instead of the HK$5.2 million Melco promised to pay.

He was stunned to find Idea Empire would receive altogether HK$1.2 million from two contracts for jobs, mainly for logistics, exceeding the 20 percent ceiling for production costs.

Based on HK$3.2 million production costs, the logistics bill represented 38 percent.

TVB General Manager, Stephen Chan's corruption case summoned the most followed TVB artists in the city to appear in court yesterday. However, the climax of the trial only lasted for a short period. Ten minutes after 'TV King' Wayne Lai testified, the defense declared that it is not necessary to interrogate the other 5 TVB FaDans, causing them to be in court for no reason. The prosecution spent half an hour reading out their written statements, but the FaDans’ appearance money were exposed.

According to Charmaine Sheh's written statement, unless the show involves charity or for increasing exposure rate, her appearance money is at least HK$40,000. If she has to sing or do catwalks, she gets paid more. Charmaine reveals, January 2010, her manager told her she has to attend Stephen Chan's autograph session for his book and made it clear that she won't get any money for it. Although at the time she was shooting Can't Buy Me Love, but "someone told me, Stephen Chan wanted Mui Siu Ching (producer) to take time off my schedule because Stephen personally requested that she must release me, there would be no appearance money."

In the end, Charmaine attended the event as planned, but it was only when she received diamonds and a watch, that she knew the event had a sponsor. She said frankly, as there was no pay, she did not want to attend, but because Stephen requested it, she couldn't turn him down. "If it was not for Stephen Chan asking me to attend, I definitely wouldn't have went."

Shirley Yeung did not ask about the price, just supporting

Claimed to not know the appearance money she gets, Shirley Yeung was also arranged by her manager to attend the book autograph session. Shirley admitted that she wanted to support TVB executive Stephen Chan that she did not ask about the price and was happy to attend the event. However, if that time was a shopping mall event and it wasn't for Stephen Chan, she would not have attended the event for no pay.

As for the other two artists Tavia Yeung and Sharon Chan, their written statements were rather 'polite'. They admitted they only attended to support Stephen. Tavia said, as a TVB artist, she will accept all jobs her manager finds her. She reveals she earns HK$40,000-$50,000 for ribbon cutting ceremonies. Tavia reveals she agreed to Stephen's request at the TVB Anniversary Awards artist evening banquet hosted by Norman Leung. That night, she recorded a short clip sharing her Valentine's Day experience. She said frankly, she attended because of 'support' and felt autograph sessions are charity events, and it had to do with youth suicide, so she thought it had nothing to do with money.

Sharon Chan feels it's her duty

Sharon Chan's statement reveals she receives about HK$30,000-$40,000 when she attend events. She was arranged by her manager to attend the book autograph session, and frankly said she was just there to 'support'. She said as a TVB artist, she believes it's part of her duties to attend on behalf of TVB. However she made it clear that if the book autograph session was not a TVB event or not to promote Stephen Chan's new book, then she would not have attended for no pay.

Among the 5 TVB FaDans, Skye Chan gets the lowest price. In her statement, she reveals most of her jobs are hosting, each time she receives only HK$8000-$22,000. She said stressed several times in her statement that she is a newcomer, the price she gets is often very low, and she just wanted to increase her job opportunities. As for freelance artist Wayne Lai with no TVB contract, he stressed he only attended to 'support' him and so did not receive any sort of 'show money'.

TVB General Manager Stephen Chan's hearing for his corruption case was held yesterday. The prosecutor reveals that in February of 2010, Stephen had both 'public and private uses' when he held his new book press conference. On the sponsor's contract, there was a set price to be paid to the TVB FaDans for attending the event as his guests. However, he hid this fact from the FaDans and just 'patted shoulders' asking the FaDans to participate in the event as his friend. As a result, the FaDans helped Stephen embezzle HK$300,000 of sponsor fees.

The prosecutor's representative, an experienced lawyer (Kwok Tung Ming) reveals yesterday that there are temporarily 58 witnesses to testify on the list. The prosecutor will first summon the sponsoring company's staff to the stand. Next, TVB executives, the 5 TVB FaDans (Charmaine Sheh, Sharon Chan, Tavia Yeung, Shirley Yeung and Skye Chan) and Wayne Lai will be summoned. It is estimated that the climax of the case will appear next month.

On March 11th, Stephen (age 51) was arrested with Idea Empire Advertising & Production Co. (Idea Empire) Director Edthancy Tseng (age 28) for corruption and conspiracy to defraud TVB by the ICAC. According to the prosecutor, at the time of the arrest, Chan was in his duplex unit apartment on Argyle Astrid street with the others who were arrested. This led to cohabitation suspicions.

When the hearing started, the Prosecutor pointed out that when Chan is out doing any type of public jobs, as TVB's General Manager, no matter what the fees are, he must report in writing to TVB for approval. Late 2009, Olympian City II Management Limited collaborated with TVB on the Olympian City Countdown to 2010 Spectacular show. Olympian City spent HK$1.3 million on sponsoring the show and requested for Chan and Wayne Lai to participate in the Be My Guest segment of the show. TVB agreed to this arrangement.

Meanwhile, Olympian City II bid another HK$160,000 through Idea Empire to hire Chan and Wayne Lai for the related segment of the show. When that segment in the show ends, Idea Empire will give HK$112,000 to Chan. However the Prosecutor said Chan never applied to receive that amount of money, while TVB did not know about Idea Empire and Olympian City II's agreement with Chan.

The Prosecutor also said Idea Empire published the new book Stephen 14.2 First Choice early last year (2010) and on February 7, 2010, the press conference was held in Olympian City. In December 2009 through February 2010, Chan started asking TVB artists Charmaine Sheh, Tavia Yeung, Shirley Yeung, Sharon Chan, and Skye Chan to attend Stephen's events for free, like the press conference for his new book; They were to attend the event as a friend of Stephen's and receive no pay. TVB Production Resources Director Virgina Lok agreed and allowed the 5 FaDan to attend the event.

But in reality, Idea Empire had already signed a contract with Olympian City on December 24, 2009. Idea Empire will ensure Olympian City appoint Charmaine, Tavia, and Shirley to attend the event as a condition for Olympian City to provide the space for free. Also, Idea Empire and Mabelle Diamond established an agreement that Mabelle will invest HK$300,000 to fund that event, but Charmaine, Tavia and the other FaDans must attend the event as a condition for their funds. TVB and the 5 FaDans did not know anything about their agreement.

Also, Edthancy and TVB's Business & Marketing department head, Wilson Chan (age 63) successfully got Melco PBL Jogos Hotel to spend HK$5.2 million to sponsor TVB's JSG Singer Anniversary 2009. However, they reported to TVB that Melco only sponsored HK$4.65 million. They also provided assistance to Idea Empire as well, asking Melco and TVB to provide HK$690,000 and HK$550,000 respectively to help fund Idea Empire's event logistics and transportation services. When the event ended, Wilson Chan demanded Melco to pay HK$5.89 million to Idea Empire. Idea Empire deducted the HK$690,000 and HK$550.000 from the sum and gave the remainder HK$4.65 million to TVB as the Melco sponsor fee.

Since TVB's GM Stephen Chan's involvement in the corruption case, his henchmen were all got "swept away" by TVB internally. Wong He's Twilight Investigation was initally scheduled to broadcast in the summer, but was temporarily taken out, making Wong He lose all his chances for this year's Best Actor award. The TVB Lighting Ceremony and the day the awards nomination came out, Wong He was not invited to attended to neither of the two events.

That day when Stephen "lit the light" to have Louis Cheung host JSG, Book of Words and The Voice was completely shut out after Stephen's suspension and was completely off camera during the time of Stephen's suspension. Now that Stephen is back, his favorites are all coming back out. Last night, Louis was arranged to go on JSG, while Wong He's Twilight Investigations is back on the broadcast schedule.

It was rumored that with Stephen back in TVB, the Twilight Investigations series can only be broadcast. Wong He frankly said: "It is two different things. Last month, I already did the shooting for the promotional clip and that time we didn't know Stephen was coming back yet. (It was initially going to broadcast in the summer?) I know too, at the time there was a lot of news on the internet. (Didn't invite you to attend the TVB lighting ceremony and anniversary?) That's better, can save some money and don't have to buy expensive clothing. (No chance to get TV King!) I don't mind, as long as I have jobs, I'm as rich as a cloud."

When Louis was recording for JSG, he thanked Stephen Chan again, but joked that he doesn't belong in the "Stephen Party", but personally belongs to "Miss Tse" (Kay Tse). Asked if he's borrowing Stephen's momentum to get some popularity on TVB? Louis said: "Before I was busy producing an album, so didn't appear much in public. This time going on JSG, it's mainly for my new song's promotions, it has nothing to do with Mr. Chan. (Do you feel that it's not the right time for Stephen to come back when he's still dealing with the court case?) It's the best arrangement now."

Yesterday Stephen's 'ultimate favorite' Leo Ku explained his reason of absence at the dinner with Stephen: "I had to go see the doctor after being busy for the opening of a new store. The doctor came from Beijing and the appointment cannot be changed. After seeing the doctor, they already finished eating. I will make it up to Mr. Chan. (There was only two people from the industry at the dinner?) Really? I really don't know, thank you! I support him."

Stephen Chan's position as TVB's General Manager was suspended for 250 days due to his involvement in a corruption case. Yesterday morning at 8:15am, Stephen suddenly went to TVB City and is back at work. Approximately 10am, Stephen was accompanied by TVB's Deputy Executive Chairman Norman Leung for a secret meeting at the conference room. At the same time, within TVB a notice circulated that besides the artist management and casting, Mr. Chan will be resuming all his previous duties, immediately effective. First day back at work, Mr. Chan was extremely busy, so busy he didn't have time to go out for lunch, and had to remain in the office to have a few bites.

After the news broke out that Stephen Chan is back at work, nearly 500 reporters surrounded the both inside and outside of TVB City in hope to get interviews. At 4pm, Mr. Chan appeared to meet the press, he stood right outside of the TVB City entrance and made a brief speech on his feelings: "Thank you God. I am extremely grateful that TVB made arrangements for me to resume my job. Today I have many meetings, sorry for making everyone (reporters) wait so long. I will be focused entirely on my job, and will do even better, producing more good shows." Using 'meetings' as his excuse to deny all questions asked by the press.

It was understood that Stephen was able to get his job back was all because he got backup support from Mona Fong. In the last several months, Mona and Stephen have often meeting up for meals. Every time a problem comes up, Mona would go ask Stephen for his opinion. Actually on September 16th, it was already rumored that Stephen would be returning to TV, but then at the same time news came out that he was formally charged by the ICAC, so that interrupted his comeback.

TVB executive Stephen Chan alleged bribery and fraud case was held in Eastern District Court's third court yesterday. The prosecutor suddenly withdrew Stephen and Edthancy from facing the first 3 items of the 8 charges. The prosecution said that after reconsidering the evidence, they felt that it is unlikely for them to be convicted and because of this 3 of the charges are removed. As for the 3 defendants' remaining charges, it will be transferred to another district court to handle. The hearing is scheduled for November 23rd.

The 3 defendants Stephen Chan (51 years old), Si Chiu Kwong Advertisement Production and Publishing Company Limited Director Edthancy (28 years old) and TVB Marketing and Sales Business Director Chan Wing Suen (63 years old) reduced their initial 8 charges to only 5 charges, including conspiracy to defraud. It is temporarily not necessary for the three to reply to the accusations, yesterday they were released on a HK$100,000 cash bail.

Yesterday Stephen Chan accompanied by good friend Wong He and assistant arrived at the Eastern District Court. Towards the media's questions, he did not respond. When Stephen found out about that 3 of his charges are removed, he stepped out of the district court with a wide smile.

Wong He once got on his knees in front of big Buddha praying for Stephen. Asked if he will do anything for Stephen again? Wong He said: "Didn't think about it. I still believe 'what is true cannot be false, what is false can never be true'. (Reduced charges, is Stephen happy?) Not really a big reaction, just faced it with calmly like usual. We went to have breakfast after court. (Last time you didn't accompany him to court?) Last time I had work and couldn't go. Yesterday I just finished my jobs, so today I can accompany him!"

Stephen Chan and Wong He served as "Life Ambassadors" to attend a vegetarian restaurant donation event. At first, Stephen clearly did not want to do any interviews, but for the small questions, Wong He answered on his behalf. When asked if he's only appearing in public because of charity work? Wong He answers on his behalf: "Every person of HK is responsible to do this voluntary work, as part of TVB, we don't need approval, we don't need someone to tell us to do it."

Asked if Wong He thought of committing suicide due to frustration? He frankly said no, the Stephen besides him expressed that when there's troubles it is important to share with family and friends. When asked of Stephen's current condition, Wong He answers again on his behalf that Mr. Chan is full of positive energy, he didn't have a down time. He also said that Stephen has very high EQ, even if he has mood swings, he can quickly fix it and has the ability to help others.

Yesterday Stephen Chan's went to court for this corruption case. It was rainy weather on Mid-Autumn Festival, Stephen was accompanied by his very good friend Wong He to court at 8:45am. Wong He had just finished his jobs in Mainland and rushed back to Hong Kong, it was only seen that as soon as he got out of the car, he immediately opened up an umbrella for good buddy Stephen. Stephen clearly was in a pretty good mood, with smiles on his face.

Once a TVB popular person, after Stephen got involved with corruption, his favorites have not appeared in public with him, except for Wong He who has been seen to be very loyal to him. Yesterday after he sent Mr. Chan home and settled him, he immediately went out in the rain to the Buddha in Lantau Island to pray for his good friend. Wong He's trip to Lantau Island was full of twists and turns, because of heavy winds, the cable car had to stop its operation, but Wong He insisted on going as he switched to bus. When he got up to Lantau Island, he learned that the area was temporarily closed. Wonder if Wong He's sincerity touched the Heavens, but after 30 minutes of closure the gates suddenly re-opened. Wong He rushed in and prayed on the ground by the Buddha's foot hoping to bless his good friend.

For his good friend, Wong He can ignore the hardships, he said: "Will try my best to do things that I personally think is right. Do what a friend does, not worth the praise. (Many people aren't seen here?) Perhaps they already done it and we didn't know about it. I am rather direct, actually for the last half year I really appreciate Mr. Chan giving me the opportunity to treat him well. It has been rough the last half year, after this incident, it really puts a big challenge on our friendship. I asked myself before how much can I do for this friend? This is a deep question, I thought about it for a long time. I think the most extreme was when I thought about selling my flat to help him with the lawsuits. (Not worried that this will affect your relationship with TVB?) Don't worry about something that hasn't happened. Mr. Chan and I are personal, TVB is my employer. (How is Mr. Chan feeling now?) Not much of a difference from usual days, no mood swings. It's not just me that is treating Mr. Chan well, there are many others who told me to send their regards to him."

Yesterday the ICAC formally charged TVB General Manager Stephen Chan and three other people in connection with corruption and conspiracy to defraud of TVB's business deals. As many artists were invited to take part in the the public events involved in the case, there is a high possibility that these artists will have to testify in court. To avoid artists revealing the contents of the case, yesterday TVB issued a statement that artists are to keep their mouths shut and cannot talk about the case to outsiders.

Suspended TVB general manager Stephen Chan Chi Wan is expected to be charged with corruption when he reports to the Independent Commission Against Corruption today.

It will be the second time in three days he has been required to appear at the ICAC headquarters, the last being on Tuesday when there was speculation he was to be charged.

However, he turned up without his legal representatives.

As the listed Television Broadcasts Limited can be regarded as a public body, it is possible Chan may be charged with "misconduct while in public office," even if he is not accused of receiving any monetary gain.

An ICAC spokeswoman declined to comment on an individual case.

Chan's former personal assistant, Edthancy Tseng Pei Kun, and TVB head of business development Wilson Chan Wing Suen are also expected to report to the ICAC today.

It is believed more than 100 top artists and singers were interviewed after Stephen Chan was arrested in March by the ICAC.

There is no maximum penalty for those charged with misconduct while in public office as this depends on the scale of the misconduct and the amount of money involved. Such cases are usually heard in a lower court, which can hand out jail terms not exceeding seven years.

Chan was among five arrested during an ICAC operation codenamed "Valiant" for allegedly obtaining advantages without the authority of TVB.

Former executive producer Wilson Chin Kwok Wai and actor Ning Jin, whose real name is Leung Chi Cheong, were among those arrested, but had their bail terms lifted.

TVB GM Stephen Chan was involved in a corruption case earlier this year (March 2010) and has been on hiatus for half a year. It was rumored that he'll be returning to TVB late September and will appear on the The Shaw Prize (邵逸夫獎頒獎禮) held on September 28th. Yesterday reporters contacted Stephen and asked about the rumors, but he did not respond. As for TVB, foreign affairs director (Tsang Sing Ming) expressed that this is just a rumor. As of yesterday, there still wasn't any notice from TVB of any arrangements. Mr. Tsang also said that the corruption case had happened half a year ago, and does hope that it will come to an end soon.

Although TVB did not confirm Stephen's comeback, but it was understood that they are in the middle of arranging and will announce at the right time. Rumors say that Stephen will serve as a MC alongside Carol Cheng at The Shaw Prize.

Stephen Chan was originally supposed to attend next month’s charity event <<Concert in the Dark>>, however during the press conference held yesterday to promote the event, it was officially announced that he would no longer be attending the event due to ‘personal reasons’. In addition, Stephen’s name was removed from the press conference guest list as well as the list for the event.

The spokesperson for the event, Clayton Chwang, said: “We just received notification yesterday that Stephen Chan would not be able to participate in the event because of personal reasons.” (Is it because he offended TVB and is on bad terms with them?) “I will not comment on that…you should go ask him.” The situation has led people to think that Stephen Chan is still being ‘banned’ by TVB, as he was first prohibited from hosting Commercial Radio’s new program and now he is not even allowed to attend public functions.

When asked about the situation, TVB’s Director of External Affairs Tsang Sing Ming expressed: “Stephen is not attending the event because of personal reasons. Recently, he had accepted a few jobs and asked the company about them, however TVB feels that the jobs are not suitable for him, so the requests were denied.” (So he is not allowed to attend charity events either?) “Whatever outside jobs he accepts, he is required to report back to the company and obtain approval first. If the company approves, then he can participate”

Stephen Chan appeared to a evangelistic meeting yesterday. Besides being the voice-over, he also went onto the stage and sing poetry. Before the meeting, he accepted interviews and said he felt even more nervous than performing for his own show: "This gospel meeting is for God, also singing is not my profession, hope I can perform it well."

Stress he's still a TVB employee

Stephen stressed he is still TVB's employee. As long as company think it's suitable, he can return to work at any time. He said during days of not working his life is just as usual and it's also busy. Besides participating in evangelistic meeting and related promotion work, early next month he would perform with his voice in a concert called "Talking in the Dark."

It's not hard to walk on the Jesus' trail

Talked about earlier his trip to Israel, Stephen said: "I've been a Christian for a long time, but didn't have a deep understanding of the bible. It's thankful to be at the place where Jesus was born. It let me have a better understanding of the bible." He said during this trail journey, besides one day he had to get to the moutain overnight and couldn't sleep, the rest of the journey wasn't hard at all. It was just a sacred place tour this time; if there's a chance he hopes to go there again.

This year on March 11, TVB GM Stephen Chan and other four people are arrested by ICAC due to suspicious of bribery, shocking the showbiz. From the start of the incident to now has been hundred days, Stephen finally broke his silence and accepted an interview from Oriental Daily, describing his feelings throughout the period when he was arrested, plus his relationship with Mona Fong.

Before the incident, Stephen was in a important position in TVB. Besides having says in many things, he is also entrusted and loved by TVB's chairman Mona Fong. But after the incident happened, everything went away from him. It's even rumored it's actually TVB who reported to ICAC, even Mona knew it. For him, he actually didn't feel he's in the bottom of life, he said: "This incident is not in the bottom of life, until this minute and in the future, to me death of my parents is at the bottom, my parents have the greatest impact to my growth."

He continued: "I treat this ICAC incident normally, just like I told everyone in the press conference, you always meet some changes in life, making you feel confused, but don't panic, don't get nervous. I'm very thankful, parents' teaching gave me a positive attitude in life. If this incident happened before my parents passed away, I would worry my parents the most. Although I miss them very much, but I'm thankful this incident happened after they are gone.