Chapter 424

Chapter 424:

The announcement sent shockwaves through social media. Forums exploded with speculation about who would be paired with the industry’s newest golden boy.

However, the show’s director, Devin Reed, frowned as he reviewed the guest list. Something about the names before him sparked serious concern.

Beside Stephen’s luminous star power, the other participants seemed to fade into obscurity—a stark contrast that threatened to undermine the entire production.

“Devin, our show is finally going to be the breakthrough we’ve been waiting for!”

“You bet! Freak Design has poured unprecedented resources into this program. The endorsements they’ve lined up are incredible, and we’ve even managed to secure participating pairs willing to cross-promote. That’s never happened before!”

“With Stephen joining the cast, success is practically guaranteed!”

The production office hummed with anticipation as staff members rushed to voice their optimism, each hoping to catch Devin’s approval.

But Devin’s expression had grown increasingly troubled since the guest list had landed on his desk earlier that morning.

“Don’t celebrate too soon. Take a look at this first.” As Devin distributed the list among his team, eager hands snatched up copies. Their eyes immediately lit up at Stephen’s name—he was undeniably their biggest catch. But as they continued reading, their expressions turned from excitement to disbelief.

“What? Daniel Chadwick? That washed-up troublemaker? How did he end up on our list?”

“Besides Daniel, Demi Reed is on here too. She’s nothing but a pretty face without an ounce of talent. What were they thinking putting these two on our show?” The team exchanged looks of dismay.

Daniel Chadwick was notorious for his reckless behavior and inflammatory remarks. If not for his family’s influence, his career would have crumbled long ago.

Meanwhile, Demi’s reputation preceded her—a beauty who’d allegedly climbed the ladder through questionable means, making her a constant target for online criticism. The inclusion of such washed-up celebrities on the show was baffling to the production team.

“Daniel has strong family connections. But how did Demi get in?”

Murmurs of concern rippled through the room. Would associating with such a controversial figure damage their show’s credibility?

Devin massaged his temples, weariness etched across his features. “It’s the influence of her financial backer. Word is, she recently secured backing from someone with deep pockets—someone who happens to be one of our investors. Her appearance isn’t up for debate.”

The staff’s silent glances spoke volumes, their shared frustration palpable in the heavy atmosphere that settled over the room. Such was the bitter reality of financial influence in their industry.

The truth was painfully clear: talent had become secondary to connections. Any artist, no matter how mediocre, could secure a spot on their show if they had the right financial backing. Refusing these wealthy backers’ demands would mean risking their entire funding—a devastating blow they couldn’t afford.

“Devin, what about these names at the bottom? I’ve never seen them in the entertainment circuit.”

Devin’s expression hardened. “Stop speculating. Their presence on our show alone should tell you they wield financial influence beyond our wildest dreams. Let’s focus on making this show exceptional and leave the politics aside.”

“Understood.”

Suddenly, a staff member’s eyes widened with recognition. “Janice Edwards… Isn’t she the one who exposed Carman’s scandal? If it’s the same person, we might have struck gold. That kind of controversy generates serious buzz.”

Despite their reservations, the show’s schedule was set in stone. Whatever lay ahead was now beyond their control.

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