O.D. Returns to Daily Variety Shows, Seeks Advice from Mentor Jacky Wu
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Taiwanese entertainer "O.D." (Ou Hansheng) returns to daily variety show hosting after a nine-year absence.
- He is co-hosting a new show, "O Yeah! First Class," with Taiwanese personalities Lin Sang and Chang Li-tung.
- O.D. shared his experience seeking advice from his mentor, veteran host Jacky Wu, who initially chided him for asking questions before starting the show.
Taiwanese entertainer Ou Hansheng, widely known as "O.D.," is making a significant return to the daily variety show circuit after a nearly nine-year hiatus. He is now co-hosting the new CTi TV program "O Yeah! First Class" alongside popular figures Lin Sang and Chang Li-tung. The show enters a competitive time slot, facing off against programs hosted by Dee Hsu and Ken Chu.
Reflecting on his return to the demanding daily recording schedule, O.D. expressed palpable excitement. "It's great. I feel excited and energetic every day before recording," he stated. Having already completed the first two episodes, he noted an unexpectedly smooth production, admitting a slight initial apprehension about the seamless flow. This return marks a new chapter for the entertainer, who is eager to engage with the daily grind of television production.
Before embarking on this new venture, O.D. reached out to his mentor, veteran host Jacky Wu (Huaguo), for guidance. His initial question, "Master, have you ever hosted a daily show?" was met with a sharp rebuke from Wu. "You haven't even started recording yet, why are you asking me what you need to ask? Record first, then talk!" Wu reportedly exclaimed. O.D. later understood the underlying message: Wu's confidence in his abilities, honed over years of working alongside him, meant there was little need for basic advice. Wu's words, "You've been by my side for so many years, asking this question is asking for a beating," underscored his belief in O.D.'s readiness.
O.D. now emphasizes a different hosting philosophy, learned from his decade-plus apprenticeship with Wu. He believes a good host doesn't dominate the spotlight but facilitates guests, especially ordinary people, to open up. "A good host doesn't show off a lot themselves; they help everyone perform to their maximum potential in their respective roles," he explained. He also acknowledged the physical toll of daily hosting, admitting his stamina isn't what it used to be. Citing recent industry tragedies, he reflected on the demanding nature of entertainment work, which often requires sacrificing personal well-being for the sake of the show.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.