You used to see Cui Yongyuan, also known as Xiao Cui, on television a lot. A famous CCTV talk show host back in the 1990s, Cui was most recently in headlines for his involvement in the Fan Bingbing tax evasion scandal, which rocked the Chinese entertainment industry earlier this year. Here are five things you should know about the man eulogzied as ‘China’s conscience.’
1. Talk with Xiao Cui
The nickname Xiao Cui originates from a highly regarded talk show which aired back in 2004 and covered a wide range of topics. The name of that show? Talk with Xiao Cui.
2. Depression
Before 2004, Cui made a name for himself through hosting the hit TV show Tell It As It Is. Unfortunately, due to depression, he had to step down from the position and hand over hosting duties to a female colleague. The plot of the movie Cell Phone, which starred Fan Bingbing, bears a shocking resemblance to Cui’s situation: in the film Fan’s character takes over a TV program after the host – whom she is sexually involved with – steps down. Naturally, rumors about Cui arose after the film’s release.
3. Yin-Yang Contracts
This year, Cui leaked images on Weibo of a yin-yang contract associated with megastar Fan Bingbing. A yin-yang contract, in a nutshell, is two contracts with differing payment amounts – a method of evading taxes. The revelation resulted in massive controversy and legal issues for Fan.
4. Genetically Modified Food Critic
In 2013, Cui engaged in an online battle against popular science writer Fang Zouzi, who is an advocate for genetically modified food. Cui accused Fang of fraud and the online exchange lasted for three years. Cui has claimed he received death threats during the years-long argument.
5. Noodle Shop Proprietor
At his alma mater, Communication University of China, Cui owns a noodle shop that supports underprivileged students.
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[Cover image via Sohu]
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