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| Starry Oceans Trainee Xu Shengjin Faces Criticism for Dozing Off in Class, Responds With Statement |
Chinese actor trainee Xu Shengjin has issued a public apology after being spotted asleep during a training class for the “Starry Oceans” Young Actors Selection Programme. The moment, captured on camera during the class meeting, quickly made the rounds online, drawing sharp reactions from viewers who felt he had not treated the session with the seriousness expected.
On 14 November, Xu posted a statement on social media acknowledging the incident. He admitted he had fallen short of the programme’s standards, adding that he felt genuinely regretful about his behaviour.
According to Xu Shengjin, the class was meant to be a valuable learning opportunity, yet he failed to maintain focus and discipline.
He expressed sincere apologies to the public and said he felt deeply responsible for the oversight.
Xu Shengjin also thanked those who criticised him, saying the feedback served as an important reminder.
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He noted that the experience would stay with him as a lesson moving forward.
The young actor promised to be stricter with himself, study more diligently, and carry himself more professionally in future training sessions.
The “Starry Oceans” Young Actors Programme, also known as the Star Sea Initiative, was launched by China Film Channel in 2019.
The project aims to identify, train, and support promising young talent for China’s film and television industry.
Participants are typically recommended by established directors, actors, and producers, making selection highly competitive.
The programme focuses on acting skills, professional ethics, and industry knowledge, while also offering opportunities for standout trainees to appear at major film festivals and industry events.
Each year, the list of selected young actors is announced during the Golden Rooster Awards.
For the 2025 edition, the programme introduced new sections such as the “Short Drama Class” and a “University Recommendation Track”, providing platforms for young actors from different backgrounds.
A total of 40 selected talents are set to gather in Xiamen during the 38th Golden Rooster Awards period, taking part in themed class meetings, creative fieldwork, and mentor-led sessions. The activities will be broadcast live across Film Channel’s media platforms from 12 to 15 November.
Source: China.com