Chinese skit actor Zhao Benshan (L) and director Feng Xiaogang attend a media event in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, on October 25, 2010. [Photo: CFP]
Famous Chinese skit actor Zhao Benshan is to be the director of the language category of the 2014 CCTV Spring Festival Gala, qq.com reports.
It has also been reported that in addition to directing, Zhao may also perform in the gala.
Liu Shuangping, president of Benshan Media, did not deny this, admitting that Zhao had a very good relationship with Feng Xiaogang, the well-known Chinese film director and general director of the gala. He added, "Mr. Zhao has deep feelings for the gala. As far as all things relating to the gala are concerned, I believe that Mr. Zhao will provide strong support to meet Mr. Feng's requirements."
Zhao participated in preparations for the gala in 2011 and 2012, but for some reason or other did not get on stage. The gala was first held in 1983. The broadcast has a yearly viewership of over 700 million viewers, making it one of the premiere television events of the Chinese mainland. The show features various acts, such as drama, dance, music, and comedy.