Hong Kong actor Michael Tao may have solidified his position as a first tier actor in TVB back in the 1990s with dramas such as Detective Investigation Files and File Of Justice.
Despite finding success at the broadcaster, the 61-year-old – who left TVB in 2009 – has no plans on making a comeback.
In a recent interview with HK01, Tao shared that he had declined an invitation from a senior TVB executive to return, explaining that the broadcaster is “no longer a suitable place” for him.
“I don’t think I’m a good fit there anymore. I know the station too well – there's no special care for people of my age or generation,” he said.
At the same time, Tao said he has no objections to TVB shifting focus to give more opportunities to younger talents.
“I think that’s how it should be. What role would they even give me? At this stage, we should be passing the torch, not competing for the spotlight. It's also for this reason why I feel like (TVB) isn’t suitable for me,” he said.
Tao, who has been developing a career in mainland China for over a decade, also reflected on his past disagreements with TVB.
He has left the broadcaster twice – the first time in 1997 and the second time in 2009.
“I was headstrong then. I’m not sure if it was just me throwing a tantrum or overreacting.
“But looking back, there were things that were right and things that weren’t. If you’re going to back out on the contract, why should I even sign it?” he said.
According to reports, before starring in Detective Investigation Files, Tao’s annual pay raise was only a few hundred dollars, and for nearly a decade, his salary remained in the four-digit range.
In 1997, the actor jumped ship to rival broadcaster ATV following a contract dispute with TVB,
His series Flaming Brother went on to outperform TVB’s competing show at the time, marking a milestone for ATV.
In 2004, Tao returned to TVB after much persuasion. However, he left again in 2009 due to another contractual dispute regarding his number of projects.
