On the evening of August 26, Time Fengjun Entertainment, the Chinese agency behind the popular boy group TFBoys, officially launched the third generation lineup of TF Clan. This model focuses on the selection, formation and debut of teenage groups. The first generation, TFBoys, included the famous “Golden Boys” Wang Junkai, Wang Yuan and Yi Yangqianxi, who gained fame throughout Asia.
The teenage group TOP (Top Of Planet) has been announced as the third generation of the TF Clan, consisting of six members: Xia Hang, Su Xinhao, Zhang Ji, Zhang Zheyu, Zhu Zhihan, and Yu Yuhan.
TOP’s debut event has attracted considerable attention from Chinese entertainment fans, with the topic “TF Gen 3 Debut” quickly becoming the top search on social media in China. TOP in particular has become a top trending topic due to their promise not to date or have private relationships with fans.
The group’s oath included: “We promise not to disappoint our original dreams, not to betray the company’s unconditional support, and the expectations and support of our fans. We are committed to staying with the group throughout its development. The team members are not only partners, but also important family members. We are committed to adhering to strict idol rules with both ourselves and our fans, including no dating and no private relationships with close fans.”
As a “training” group (where fans support trainees from a young age), dating is considered a serious taboo. Many idols have seen their careers decline after dating rumors surfaced. Thus, TOP’s promise is seen as a strategic move to win over fans.
However, for neutral fans, the no-dating vow is controversial because of its severity, which deprives celebrities of personal privacy. The agency has been criticized for making young idols make such promises.
Additionally, Time Entertainment faced backlash for “deceptive debut spots,” as trainees were promised 8 debut spots, but were ultimately only given 6. One trainee, Mu Zhicheng, expressed frustration during the live show when the final lineup was announced. The trainee was cut off from the program, but netizens interpreted his gestures and lip movements as a question as to why only 6 members were chosen.
Mu Zhicheng, who had trained for 9 years at Time Fengjun Entertainment, was allegedly abused and deceived about his debut slot. Fans of the trainees who did not debut were outraged, with some fans fainting from crying and requiring emergency medical attention. This incident sparked a significant controversy on Chinese forums.
