According to Sina, the Chinese entertainment industry currently operates based on “traffic value,” which essentially measures a star’s popularity through media metrics, audience and fan interactions on various platforms. The more popular a star is, the better treatment they receive and the higher their status in the entertainment world.
In 2019, the historical drama *The Untamed* catapulted both of its leading actor, Xiao Zhan and Wang Yibo, to A-list status. Since then, in terms of media exposure, fan base, and commercial value, both stars have alternated as the top figures in Chinese entertainment.
There was a time when Xiao Zhan held the most advertising contracts, but currently, Wang Yibo leads with 27 brands. Notably, Wang Yibo is often given the highest title, such as global ambassador for the brands he represents.
Wang Yibo
Sina reports that due to his immense popularity, Wang Yibo is essentially carrying his management company, Yuehua Entertainment. Yuehua is a large entertainment company with nearly 20 artists, including a branch in South Korea. Some of its notable stars include Han Geng, Cheng Xiao, Justin Huang, Zhu Zhengting, Ding Zeren, and Meng Meiqi.
However, financial reports from Yuehua reveal that Wang Yibo alone generates over 70% of the company’s revenue. Between 2019 and the end of April 2024, Wang Yibo earned a total of 1.083 billion Chinese yuan (about 157 million USD), according to ‘The Paper’.
Xiao Zhan
Meanwhile, Xiao Zhan currently holds 23 endorsement contracts, many of which also place him as a global brand ambassador. According to Sohu, his advertising fees are approximately 6 million yuan per year (approx 850,000 USD), not including appearance fees for events.
Every time A-list stars attend an event, they typically earn about 2 million yuan (about 285,000 USD), which includes travel, accommodation, and staff fees. They also receive VIP treatment, including luxury hotel stays and private transportation.
Wu Lei (Leo Wu)
As one of the most prominent child stars in China, Wu Lei (also known as Leo Wu) is also one of the kings of endorsements in China, with 23 endorsement contracts. Of these, 22 brands offer him top-tier benefits. Wu Lei has been making significant strides in cinema, with successes such as “Amidst a Snowstorm of Love” and “Dwelling by the West Lake”.
Fan Chengchen (Adam Fan)
Singer Fan Chengcheng, with 22 endorsements, is emerging as one of the four young male celebrities with the highest commercial value in China. Since entering the entertainment industry, Fan Chengcheng (Fan Bingbing’s younger brother) has been active across multiple fields, including film, music, and entertainment shows. While he has yet to achieve extraordinary accomplishments, Fan Chengcheng is praised for his dedication and willingness to take on a variety of roles without being overly concerned about maintaining a polished image.
However, many believe that his smooth career is largely thanks to Fan Bingbing’s influence. Although Fan Bingbing has been banned from the spotlight, she has reportedly used her connections to support her brother’s rise in the industry.