Bab 217: Chapter 217: Our Boss is Optimistic About You
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The girl entered the room, where three mentors sat beside a camera. Surveying them, she asked, "I thought Ava Gardner, Cary Grant, and others were supposed to be here?"
One of the middle-aged mentors smiled. "We're the audition mentors. You'll see Miss Ava and Mr. Grant if you make it to the finals. Are you here just to see the stars?"
"I just came to see the stars," she replied, her disappointment clear. The three mentors were visibly hurt by her reaction.
"What will you be singing?" one of them inquired.
The girl named a popular song. When asked to sing acapella, her voice and technique impressed the mentors.
These mentors weren't just any instructors; they had experience with HD film companies and record labels, making them experts in music. After her performance, they unanimously passed her through.
The auditions continued rapidly. Some candidates sang only a few lines before being dismissed for their poor performances, much to the instructors' discomfort and the audience's amusement.
Anyone could sign up for the audition, but advancing depended on the mentors' decisions.
Next was Patty Page. She entered the room with confidence, having performed in concerts before. Her rendition of a classic pop song was elegant, with a full-bodied, magnetic voice. The mentors were highly impressed and passed her without hesitation.
Elvis was next, carrying a guitar. He performed a new song with enthusiasm, showcasing his rhythm, vocal ability, and stage presence. The mentors, thoroughly entertained, passed him with three unanimous votes.
Pessy Klein followed. She seemed apprehensive at first, clutching her clothes nervously. However, once she began to sing, her unique, emotional voice captivated the mentors. They applauded her performance and passed her through unanimously.
Marilyn Monroe waited nervously outside the audition room. She heard many impressive performances and worried about her chances.
When her name was called, she entered the room. The mentors noticed her striking appearance—blonde hair, blue eyes, a slender waist, and curvaceous figure. Despite her visual appeal, they awaited her performance.
"Hello, mentors," Monroe said, taking her place.
"Hello, Miss Monroe. Please begin your song," one of them responded.
Monroe sang a popular song a few years prior, acapella. Though she had practiced hard, her talent and voice did not match the exceptional standards of other contestants. She finished and looked at the mentors nervously.
After a brief silence, one mentor finally spoke. "I think it's acceptable. I'll pass her."
Monroe's eyes lit up with joy.
The second mentor shook his head. "Your singing isn't up to the standard of a good singer. I can't pass you."
Monroe's expression fell, and she turned to the third mentor with a pleading look. Her dramatic shift in expression seemed to sway him.
The third mentor, feeling slightly embarrassed, said, "I believe the show's requirements focus on both singing ability and looks. While your singing isn't perfect, your presence is impressive. Therefore, I'll pass you."
Monroe's face brightened with gratitude as the third mentor's vote allowed her to advance.
That night, ABC TV aired the first episode of "Super Idol." The program featured a range of performances—from a passionate young boy to a sweet girl with a magnetic voice. The variety of acts created a joyful, engaging show.
Hardy watched the broadcast from home, evaluating its impact. He was pleased with how well ABC TV had captured his vision for the show. The novelty and excitement were sure to attract viewers.
When Marilyn Monroe appeared on screen, Hardy was surprised to see her. Reflecting on Monroe's career, he noted her struggles and how unexpected it was to see her here.
Monroe's performance was lackluster compared to the other contestants, and the mentors' disagreement over her advancement was clear. The final decision to pass her seemed influenced more by her appearance than her talent.
The show's editing captured Monroe's emotional performance and the mentors' reactions, adding to the drama.
Hardy decided to call Edward.
"Edward, are you watching the 'Super Idol' show?"
"Yes, boss. Are there any issues?"
"No, it's well made. I have something to discuss."
Edward sighed in relief. "What is it, boss?"
"Did you see Marilyn Monroe?"
"Yes, I saw her."
"What's your assessment of her abilities?" Hardy asked.
Edward replied honestly, "Her talent is mediocre. She's charming, but her singing lacks distinction. Many eliminated contestants performed better."
"I agree. Arrange for her to sign a contract with us and get her trained. We should also feature players like Patty Page, Pessy Klein, and the young boy in a life-link segment to deepen audience engagement."
Edward understood and promised to handle the arrangements.
As he hung up, Edward considered Monroe's luck in being noticed by Hardy. With such support, her future seemed promising.
Marilyn Monroe was thrilled when Edward arrived with the contract. The offer was a C-level contract with a weekly payment of $100 and additional performance royalties, along with training to improve her show performance.
Overjoyed, Monroe signed the contract, but hesitated before asking, "Mr. President, could I request an advance on my salary? I'm behind on rent."
Edward agreed, understanding the importance of supporting talent.
Bab 218: Chapter 218: The Woman in the Man's Dream
"Mr. Edward, could the company advance my salary for two weeks? I'm already two months behind on rent," Monroe whispered, her eyes pleading.
Edward had just seen Monroe's modest apartment, and he could tell she was struggling. The place was sparsely furnished, a clear sign of her financial difficulties.
"It's a bit complicated to process a salary advance through the company. Instead, I'll personally lend you $200 now. You can repay me once you get your salary," Edward offered, pulling out the money from his wallet and handing it to Monroe.
Monroe accepted the money with a grateful smile. "Thank you, Mr. Edward. I'll make sure to pay you back as soon as I can."
Edward nodded, said his goodbyes, and headed back to his car. He reviewed the contract in his hand, reflecting on his role. Although he was the president of HD Film Company, his primary job was to follow the boss's directives. Today's task was to secure Monroe, who, despite her modest talent, had caught the boss's eye.
Edward's background as a manager in a brokerage firm made him adept at handling contracts. The boss had given clear instructions: sign Monroe with a standard C-level contract. This would ensure Monroe's commitment without offering overly generous terms, allowing the boss room to maneuver later if necessary.
There was also a more personal reason for Edward's visit. With the possibility that Monroe might become involved with the boss, it was beneficial for him to establish a good rapport with her early on. Monroe's beauty and charm were evident, and if she gained prominence, it could be advantageous for Edward to have a favorable relationship with her.
Back at ABC TV, the Super Idol show continued to captivate the audience. Viewership numbers soared, with more than 90% of Americans tuning in nightly. The show's success was unprecedented, surpassing even the popular "Family Wife" series.
The competition was fierce. The other TV stations, unable to rival ABC's innovative format, were left scrambling. Their attempts to develop similar shows were hindered by high costs and ABC's registered copyrights. This placed them in a difficult position, unsure of how to compete effectively.
As the show progressed, contestants' life stories were featured. Elvis Presley, a junior high school student, charmed viewers with his lively personality and his family's humble background. Shania Dunn, from a privileged family, showcased her musical talent and aspirations. In contrast, Percy Klein's poignant story of struggle and perseverance as a single mother resonated deeply with the audience.
The segment on Monroe revealed her simple yet poignant life. Despite her struggles, she maintained a positive outlook. Her work as a model, though modestly paid, provided her with a glimmer of hope. The camera captured her everyday life, from working on photo shoots to her simple meals. Her sweet yet melancholic smile conveyed a sense of vulnerability that endeared her to viewers.
Hardy, after watching Monroe's segment, was impressed. He decided to call Edward with further instructions.
"Edward, the show is well done. Focus on training Monroe. Her persona fits the sexy image we want to project. Make her a leading figure in that niche," Hardy directed.
"Do you want her to win the competition?" Edward asked.
"No, her performance alone doesn't warrant the top spot. While it's our show, we must maintain fairness. The top positions should go to those with outstanding talent," Hardy replied. "However, we can create a special title for her, like 'Audience's Favorite Female Singer.'"
Edward's eyes lit up. "That's a brilliant idea. It maintains fairness while still giving Monroe recognition. We can also introduce other awards like 'Best Stage Performance Singer' and 'Best Beautiful Voice Singer.'"
"Exactly. You handle the details," Hardy said, satisfied.
As the call ended, Hardy reflected on Monroe's future. Her potential was clear, and with the right support, she could become a significant figure. For now, there was no immediate need to contact her directly. The plans were in motion, and time would tell how they would unfold.
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