Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging trend of middle-aged and elderly individuals pursuing careers as short drama actors, highlighting both the legitimate training opportunities and the potential for exploitation within this burgeoning market [4][5][6]. Group 1: Industry Overview - The short drama industry is witnessing a surge in interest from middle-aged and elderly individuals, who are increasingly seeking training and opportunities to participate in this sector [5][9]. - Training institutions are proliferating, offering courses specifically designed for older adults, with some charging fees that can reach thousands of yuan for specialized classes [8][9]. - The average age of trainees is around 45, with some participants being as old as 63, indicating a significant demographic shift in the acting landscape [9]. Group 2: Business Model and Practices - Companies like the one represented by Hu Yibo claim to provide legitimate training, with structured programs that include small class sizes and access to acting resources [8][9]. - The business model includes various tiers of training, with higher fees correlating to more advanced classes and potential acting opportunities, raising questions about the definition of "excellent students" [8][9]. - There is a notable concern regarding the quality of the productions, with many short dramas being described as low-quality content, despite achieving high viewership numbers [10][11]. Group 3: Motivations and Psychological Aspects - Many older adults are motivated by a desire for recognition and a sense of purpose, seeking to re-establish their value in society through acting [13][14]. - The article highlights that older individuals often wish to express their life experiences and emotions through the narratives they portray in short dramas [14][15]. - The trend reflects a broader societal shift where older adults are not merely passive consumers of entertainment but are actively engaging in creative expression [18][19]. Group 4: Market Dynamics and Risks - The article points out the presence of fraudulent schemes within the industry, where some training programs charge exorbitant fees without providing real opportunities for acting [7][8]. - There is a growing concern that the market may exploit the aspirations of older adults, leading to financial losses under the guise of legitimate training and acting opportunities [19]. - The phenomenon of older adults becoming short drama actors is seen as part of a larger "silver economy," which is still struggling to address the needs and concerns of this demographic adequately [19].