Deng Zhiwei’s CCTV Appearance Sparks Online Debate Over Heavy Makeup

hong Kong composer and singer Deng Zhiwei, 48, recently appeared on CCTV News, sparking a flurry of online reactions regarding his appearance.While promoting his work in mainland China, where he relocated in 2020, viewers commented on what they perceived as heavy makeup and excessive use of filters, with some stating that they barely recognized him.

From TVB Executive to Mainland Musician

Before his move to mainland China, Deng Zhiwei was a prominent figure in Hong Kong’s entertainment industry. He held a senior position at TVB,where he oversaw the soundtrack and sound effects for all of the station’s programs. He is also credited with writing numerous well-known theme songs and helping launch the careers of artists like Lam feng and Chung Jiaxin,solidifying his reputation as a “musical talent.”

Did You Know? Deng Zhiwei was often referred to as “Lam Feng‘s official composer” due to their frequent collaborations.

Since departing from TVB in 2013, deng Zhiwei has been actively pursuing his career as a singer-songwriter in mainland China. He has performed in various cities, sharing his music and experiences on social media platforms like Xiaohongshu. In a recent post, he expressed his excitement about being featured on CCTV News’ “New Steps to Guangdong,” where he discussed the growing popularity of Cantonese music in the region.

Online Reactions to CCTV Appearance

Deng Zhiwei’s CCTV interview clip showed him seated at a harpsichord, sporting long hair tied in a ponytail, thick-framed glasses, and what many viewers described as heavy makeup. while some fans praised his talent and Mandarin skills, others focused on his changed appearance. Comments ranged from surprise at the extent of the makeup to comparisons with an “old ladylike” look.

Despite the mixed reactions to his appearance, Deng Zhiwei emphasized the positive reception he has received for his music in mainland China.He noted the enthusiasm of audiences in cities like Beijing and Chengdu, where people have passionately sung along to his Cantonese songs, reinforcing his belief in the resurgence of Hong Kong music.

Past Relationships and Controversies

beyond his musical achievements, Deng Zhiwei’s personal life has also garnered media attention. His past relationship with actress Gao Haining was widely reported, although she never publicly confirmed it. The relationship reportedly ended amid allegations of infidelity in 2020. He was also involved in a dispute with a woman identified as Ms. K, which lead to police involvement after he claimed she verbally intimidated him. Deng Zhiwei denied having a romantic relationship with Ms. K, stating that she was a nightclub employee who harassed him and gao Haining.

The State of Cantonese Music in China

Deng Zhiwei’s recent comments about the resurgence of Cantonese music align with broader trends in China’s entertainment landscape. While Mandarin remains the dominant language in the country, Cantonese music and culture continue to hold a special place, particularly in Guangdong province and Hong Kong. According to a 2023 report by the Hong Kong trade Development Council, Cantonese songs still enjoy considerable popularity in mainland China, especially among older generations and those with ties to Guangdong. The increasing accessibility of music streaming platforms has also contributed to the continued appreciation of Cantonese music among younger audiences.

Pro Tip: Streaming services like NetEase Cloud Music and QQ Music offer extensive libraries of Cantonese songs, catering to a diverse range of listeners.

Deng Zhiwei: A Timeline

What are your thoughts on Deng Zhiwei’s musical contributions? Do you think the focus on his appearance is fair?