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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.