On March 1, Hong Kong’s upcoming free-to-air television station ViuTV held a press conference to announce its upcoming projects for 2016. In attendance was also actors Bowie Lam (林保怡) and Catherine Chau (周家怡), both who are confirmed to star in ViuTV’s first serial drama, Margaret and David <瑪嘉烈與大衛>. Margaret and David, which is based on a romance novel series, is Bowie’s first Hong Kong television drama since 2011’s When Heaven Burns <天與地>. Bowie expressed that he was “already in retirement” when ViuTV first approached him about the project. He would’ve said no, but the drama’s script immediately caught his attention. “I read scripts really slow,” said Bowie. “I usually fall asleep while reading them, but the script [for Margaret and David] really captivated me.” In addition to the show’s eye-opening story, ViuTV’s unique filming methods for the series was also a reason why Bowie decided to collaborate with the new station. “The directors and cameramen are new. The filming methods they use is something I’ve never seen before. It is super realistic.” Bowie revealed that he has signed a 26-episode deal with Viu TV. Asking if the new station gave him a huge salary, Bowie said with a smile, “I’ve only signed for the Hong Kong version, but if the drama broadcasts overseas, then yes, I’ll get some money for that too.” Catherine, on the other hand, declined to share the number of her earnings, but did express her happiness at the opportunity to closely work with Bowie. When mentioning that Gallen Lo (羅嘉良) has returned to TVB to shoot new drama The Conspirators <與諜同謀>, Bowie said that he too received casting offers from TVB, but none of it came to fruition due to scheduling conflicts. “Just can’t find the right time,” he said. “But there will definitely be an opportunity to collaborate again.” Asking if Bowie’s decision of turning down TVB projects had something to do with TVB’s flawed scripts, Bowie admitted, “There is potential room of improvement.” ViuTV officially launches in Hong Kong on April 6, 2016. Creds: Oncc
It sounds like more of a cousin relationship to TVB so it doesn't really feel like a new tv station...
