As per tradition, at this year’s annual TVB Anniversary Gala, the TVB artistes gathered for a group photo.
This photo has long been an interest not only because it features all the stars in one place, but also because it is widely believed that the positioning of artistes in these photos reflects their status and hierarchy within the broadcasting company.
The most prominent stars, referred to as the network’s "No.1 brothers and sisters", are typically placed front and centre, flanked by rising talents.
Meanwhile, those considered less influential are assigned to the sides or the back rows.
To celebrate TVB's 57th anniversary, 300 artistes gathered at the TVB City on Nov 19.
This year, 77-year-old entertainment icon Liza Wang, known as "The Big Sister" of Hong Kong showbiz, claimed the central position.
Standing beside her were top-tier actors Moses Chan and Kenneth Ma, who reinforced their "No.1 brother" status, along with leading actresses Nancy Wu and Samantha Ko.
Just behind them stood Ruco Chan, Shaun Tam, Rosina Lam and Roxanne Tong, captioned by China Press.
Interestingly, Lawrence Ng, who is set to play a doctor once again in an upcoming TVB drama, was positioned higher than three-time Best Actor winner Wayne Lai.
Notably absent was Ali Lee, fuelling ongoing speculation about her rumoured departure from TVB.
The second row featured veteran stars Kiki Sheung and David Chiang in prominent spots, alongside younger talents like Bella Lam, Kalok Chow, Brian Chu, Matthew Ho and Owen Cheung.
Former TVB actress Natalie Tong recently reflected on how the positioning in these photos impacted her self-esteem during her career.
“When I started with supporting roles, I was in the fourth row. The next year, I dropped to the fifth and wondered what went wrong. The following year, I might be in the sixth row or suddenly move up to the third,” she shared on a talk show.
