Joe Ma (馬德鐘) and Jessica Hsuan’s (宣萱) new TVB drama, Tiger Cubs <飛虎>, received an enthusiastic reception in its premiere broadcast on Sunday, June 24th. Despite typically lower ratings results in TVB’s weekend programs, Tiger Cubs averaged 29 points. Celebrating his 44th birthday on June 27th, Joe Ma expressed his delight, but remained noncommittal in using his sex appeal to boost ratings further. Female audiences were drawn to Tiger Cubs due to the abundance of male muscle. Playing a heroic Special Duties Unit (SDU) officer in the role, Joe Ma served as a veteran anchor in the thrilling action drama. Asked if he will wear swimming briefs along with the rest of the male cast if ratings continued to soar, Joe said, “Let’s see how the ratings continue to perform. I hope that viewers will continue to support Tiger Cubs! There will be many upcoming explosive scenes!” Joe revealed that he will have a celebratory dinner with the cast later. Marriage Is Still Hot Joe and his wife, Dr. Karen Cheung (張筱蘭) maintained a passionate relationship, kissing multiple times before reporters yesterday. They have been married for 19 years and met when they were young teenagers. Karen currently works as a Research Assistant Professor at Hong Kong University. Karen holds a Bachelor of Social Sciences, Masters in Chinese Studies, and a Ph.D. degree. Despite Joe’s earlier infidelity rumors, Joe and Karen’s marriage have survived. Joe and Karen will vacation in Guam later. The couple will have their wedding photos taken in Guam, to make up for the lack of official photographs when they got married two decades ago. Karen left a loving birthday message on Joe’s Weibo blog, “Thank you for unconditionally loving and taking caring of us all these years. Our son and I send our heartfelt blessings. Happy birthday!” Joe Ma Still Loyal to TVB Joe received a birthday cake and hug from Nancy Sit (薛家燕) after appearing in an interview with Metro Radio. Although he was currently in Hong Kong to promote Tiger Cubs, Joe will shortly film a mainland drama. Asked whether he earned $150,000 RMB per television episode, Joe replied, “It’s around that level. I am a free agent right now and will consider the price accordingly. TVB will have a priority!” Creds: Ming Pao
