Minimizing controversies

Mainland celebrities, however, have been rather quiet on the movement that has divided Hong Kong's entertainment industry. Actress Yao Chen, Sina Weibo's most followed celebrity, is one of the few who expressed her view on the movement, albeit indirectly. In a post on September 30, she retweeted one of her 2012 posts in which she talked about her affection for Hong Kong, with a comment that no one could possibly fault: "Love Hong Kong. Hope it could soon return to its past prosperity and peace."

Hu Xingdou, a commentator and professor at the Beijing Institute of Technology, said that it is usually unwise for celebrities in the Chinese mainland to publicly talk politics. "Celebrities or businessmen are suggested to avoid political topics so as not to risk their career or business," Hu told the Global Times.

"It's worth pointing out that [as a result of] China's political environment, most celebrities do not understand politics. Their political views are often naive," Hu said.

Most mainland celebrities have managed to minimize controversy by steering clear of openly discussing political topics. The few incidents related to politics have often resulted from ignorance. In 2001, actress Zhao Wei was caught in a publicity crisis after a magazine photo of her posing in a dress printed with a "rising sun" Japanese flag (considered a symbol of Japanese militarism) triggered a backlash among patriotic fans. After some critics urged a boycott of her albums, television and films, Zhao was forced to write a letter expressing her regret and apologizing for her ignorance of history.

"Generally speaking, politics is a taboo in the entertainment industry. However, under certain circumstances, it can help boost public opinion of a celebrity if he or she picks the right topic and express his views with discretion," one agent for several celebrities, who asked not to be named, told the Global Times.

Chinese President Xi Jinping recently told artists in a forum that artists "should not fall slave to money" but should offer "spiritual guidance to reinforce people's moral judgment and sense of honor."