Core Viewpoint - The short drama industry has undergone significant changes over the past three years, transforming from a low-profile sector to one where actors can achieve substantial fame and financial success, comparable to traditional film and television stars [7][10][34]. Group 1: Industry Transformation - The short drama industry has seen a dramatic rise in popularity, with platforms like Hongguo leading the charge, achieving nearly 2.36 billion monthly active users by September 2023, surpassing Bilibili and Youku [62]. - The commercial model of short dramas has evolved, with the industry experiencing a nearly threefold growth compared to the previous year, driven by high production volumes and rapid filming schedules [25][18]. - The emergence of hit series like "Shengxia Fendela," which garnered over 4 billion views, has established new benchmarks for success in the short drama sector [7][88]. Group 2: Actor Dynamics - Short drama actors have seen their daily wages increase from thousands to tens of thousands of yuan, with some even receiving hundreds of thousands for endorsements [10][56]. - The rise of fan culture around short drama actors has led to intense competition for talent, with actors now having significant leverage in negotiations due to their popularity [64][66]. - The industry is witnessing a shift where actors are no longer just "tool people" but are becoming central figures in storytelling, reflecting a broader trend towards character-driven narratives [61][33]. Group 3: Market Competition - The competition for talent has intensified, with many actors receiving multiple offers from various production companies, making it challenging for companies to secure suitable actors for new projects [66][75]. - The introduction of revenue-sharing models by platforms like Hongguo has further complicated the landscape, as actors can now earn substantial income from self-produced projects, leading to a talent drain from traditional companies [84][85]. - The industry's focus on high-quality productions is increasing costs, with top-tier actors commanding significant fees, which raises the stakes for production companies [68][69]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The short drama industry is moving towards a more refined and professional approach, with an emphasis on quality content and character development, as regulatory changes push for higher standards [59][60]. - The success of actors like Liu Xiaoxu and Ke Chun signifies a new era where short drama stars can achieve mainstream recognition and commercial viability, paving the way for future talent [52][57]. - As the industry matures, there is a growing expectation for short drama actors to transition back into traditional film and television, indicating a potential convergence of the two sectors [54][66].