Actors' Pay Slashed as 'Tofu Mama' Broadcast Time Halved in Taiwan

The Taiwanese television landscape is undergoing a significant shift with the introduction of a "dual primetime drama" strategy by FTV. This move sees "Tofu Mama," starring Honduras and Hsieh Chi-huan, sharing broadcast slots with the new drama "Brother and Sister," featuring Ke Shu-yuan, Han Yu, and Pai Chia-chi. The concurrent airing means "Tofu Mama" will broadcast for half its original duration, directly impacting the actors' schedules and income.

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It will definitely be reduced. It's logical to earn less for fewer hours, right? If FTV were that generous, that would be great. Where can you find a unit that pays you for two hours when you only work for one? Filming days will definitely be reduced, but whether we get two days off a week, we don't know yet. It depends on the direction of the show; we don't know yet.

Honduras, a lead actor in "Tofu Mama," acknowledged the salary reduction, explaining that it's a natural consequence of reduced working hours. "It's logical to earn less for fewer hours," he stated, clarifying that while a pay cut is confirmed, the exact percentage is still under negotiation, with rumors suggesting a 40% reduction. He added that the number of filming days will decrease, but whether actors will receive a full day off each week remains uncertain, depending on the drama's progression.

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No, not yet. We are still looking for a balance point. We are still looking for a way that we can accept. This is a first for the eight o'clock primetime environment in Taiwan. Everyone is happy to see it happen. After all, with the old way of filming, actors had almost no time to rest. Now, with two dramas taking turns, audiences can see two completely different styles within two hours.

Despite the financial adjustments, the actors express optimism about the new format. They see it as an innovative approach in Taiwanese primetime television, allowing viewers to enjoy two distinct dramas within a two-hour block. This change also offers actors a potential respite from the demanding schedules often associated with long-running productions, potentially leading to better work-life balance. Ke Shu-yuan, co-star of "Brother and Sister," humorously addressed the pay cut concerns, deflecting sensitive questions with lighthearted banter, highlighting the camaraderie among the cast.

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Yes, Uncle Yuan has complained to me.