Overseasidol.com — Veteran Hong Kong actor Francis Ng has sparked widespread discussion after his remarks on the variety show Memories Beyond Horizon.

During the program, he openly supported Huang Tingting in her decision to leave the idol industry and pursue acting, while also addressing the harsh age limitations faced by idols.

Francis praised her courage, stating that her decision to pivot toward acting was the right move.

He also highlighted that her appearance and presence are better suited for the acting profession, suggesting that she has greater long-term potential beyond the idol framework.

In a candid statement, Francis questioned the rigid expectations imposed on idols as they approach their 30s.

His rhetorical remark about whether they are expected to end up dancing in public squares quickly caught public attention, serving as a sharp critique of the industry’s age-related stereotypes.

His words resonated strongly with audiences, igniting a broader conversation about career longevity and identity in the entertainment world.

Huang Tingting began her career as a member of idol group SNH48 in 2013.

By 2019, as she approached her late twenties, she decided to terminate her contract.

She explained that the “youthful idol” image imposed by the industry limited her opportunities to explore more mature roles, such as portraying married women or mothers, prompting her to seek a new direction.

Her transition, however, was far from smooth. Huang Tingting became involved in a prolonged legal dispute with her agency, Siba Media which lasted for four years.

The case concluded in 2023 with her paying a compensation fee of 3.5 million yuan. During that period, her career faced significant setbacks.