Core Viewpoint - The ongoing disputes between internet celebrities and MCN (Multi-Channel Network) agencies highlight the deep-rooted conflicts in the influencer economy, particularly regarding profit distribution, content control, and IP ownership, which have become increasingly prominent as the industry has evolved [1][8]. Group 1: Reasons for Continuous Disputes - The collaboration between MCN agencies and internet celebrities has become a core driver of the industry, yet conflicts over profit distribution, content control, and IP ownership frequently arise, drawing public attention [1][2]. - The rapid increase in the influence and commercial value of internet celebrities has not been matched by timely adjustments in profit distribution mechanisms, leading to heightened tensions as creators recognize the disparity between their contributions and returns [2][4]. Group 2: Unreasonable Contract Terms - MCN agencies often dominate contract negotiations, resulting in vague and stringent terms that create an imbalance of power, planting the seeds for disputes from the moment contracts are signed [3][4]. - Legal cases related to contract disputes involving internet celebrities are numerous, with keywords like termination, job-hopping, breach, and compensation frequently appearing in litigation documents [3]. Group 3: Conflict Between Personal IP and Commercial Operations - Many disputes between MCNs and internet celebrities stem from the conflict between depersonalized operations and the personal branding of creators, with MCNs seeking to commodify influencers while creators aim to maximize their personal brand value [4][6]. - The case of Li Ziqi and her agency illustrates how neglecting the creator's role in content production can lead to significant disputes, as seen in the recent events involving influencer Sui Po [4][6]. Group 4: Impact of Disputes - The increasing number of disputes not only affects the parties involved but also poses challenges to the entire industry ecosystem, potentially limiting the career development of influencers and damaging their reputations [6][8]. - For MCN agencies, disputes can harm brand image and increase operational costs due to legal proceedings, while the departure of top influencers can directly impact business development [6][8]. Group 5: Path Exploration - The ideal relationship between MCNs and influencers should be one of mutual benefit rather than a zero-sum game, necessitating a reevaluation of cooperation models, particularly in profit distribution and contract terms [7][8]. - Exploring new cooperation models, such as IP co-ownership and tiered profit-sharing, could help balance commercial operations with content quality [7]. - Contracts should clearly define rights and obligations, particularly regarding profit distribution and IP ownership, and should be flexible enough to adapt to changes in influencer influence and market conditions [7].
网红与MCN机构,注定相爱相杀