In the entertainment industry, there were usually only two scenarios when a new actress landed the role of the lead: either they had a powerful backer in the capital, or their image and temperament perfectly matched the role of the hero.
John was neither driven by capital nor by the need for fame. He had been invited by the investor, but it was not because of his wealth or connections that Sivan chose him. Sivan simply admired John for his personal charm and extraordinary presence.
When the other actors, whether bit players or supporting roles, heard that Sivan was eager to cast John as the lead, they could only stare with envy.
It was a dream for any actor.
Director Carter was famous and capable, known for launching the careers of many successful stars. To be supported by him was a golden opportunity, a chance to shoot to stardom.
But John had turned it down.
Without hesitation, he had refused.
The others felt a mixture of jealousy and frustration. Here was an opportunity most actors could only dream of, and yet John had cast it aside. It felt like a waste, a gap between the fortunate and the ordinary.
There were many roads leading to Rome, but some were simply born there.
The truth stung: they were mediocre, ordinary. And John? He had no need for this opportunity. He had already reached a different level.
As they reflected on it, they realized why John had rejected the role—it wasn't about the fame or recognition; those things didn't matter to him. He was a martial artist, after all. His skills spoke for themselves. He didn't need acting to prove his worth.
And, of course, everyone knew he was Anita's brother. With Anita's position in the entertainment world, John didn't need a career in acting to gain recognition or success. He could continue living a peaceful, quiet life without the glare of the spotlight.
It all clicked. The reason he turned down the role was not because he lacked the desire or the skills—it was simply because he didn't need it.
They had underestimated him, thinking his reasons were more complicated than they were. But in reality, John didn't want to be famous. He had other priorities, and acting just wasn't one of them.
In the crowd, Faye Lance, the lead actor of the play, let out a sigh of relief.
Faye had made his debut as a popular young actor and, for years, had built his career based on his youthful image. But he wasn't content to remain labeled as a "puppy star." A few years ago, he had begun focusing on improving his acting, and this play was his chance to prove his growth. He hoped this performance would be the one to shed the "popular young actor" label once and for all and establish him as a true professional.
For him, this play was crucial.
But if John accepted Sivan's invitation, it was possible that Faye would lose his leading role. Despite Faye's own capital and backing, he was still a bit overshadowed by Anita's influence. If John joined the production, his presence might overshadow Faye.
So, when John rejected the role, Faye saw an opportunity.
He cast a brief, grateful look at John, relieved that he hadn't accepted.
But then John surprised everyone with a sudden smile, his expression mischievous.
"Director Carter, while I'm not interested in working in the entertainment industry, I must support Anita's project," John said.
Faye's heart sank again.
Sivan's eyes lit up. "Mr. Lopez, are you saying you'll participate in the play, but only for Anita's sake?"
Sivan was intrigued. John had the power to leave on top, retreating when he was still at his peak. How bold! Sivan didn't care if John acted again after this. He simply wanted him to play the role in this particular project, to bring the feelings he'd envisioned to life. John seemed perfect for the role.
But then John shook his head, clarifying, "Director Carter, you've misunderstood. I'm not interested in playing the lead. But if there's any role with a 'no-kid' scene or kissing scene that needs a substitute, I'm happy to step in."
There was a moment of stunned silence.
John didn't want to play the leading role, but he was willing to step in as a substitute for certain scenes?
Everyone, including Faye, was taken aback. John's words had shocked them all.
Anita, too, was momentarily stunned, and then shot John a resentful glare. She could tell what his true intentions were. This old rascal had a clear agenda.
Sivan, looking between Anita and John, let out a dry chuckle. "Anita, it seems your brother has no idea about the types of scenes you're involved in."
Anita rarely had any intimate or kiss scenes in her films. And when she did, she used a professional substitute. It was unlikely that any scenes requiring substitutes would even apply to her.
But now John had disappointed Sivan, who was hoping for something more. The old man had hoped John would take the leading role, but instead, he was offering to be a substitute in a trivial scene.
"Mr. Lopez," Sivan said, "Anita doesn't have these kinds of scenes in the script, but some of the supporting actresses do. They'll be acting those parts themselves. Would you be interested in taking on a substitute role in those scenes instead?"
Despite not being as beautiful as Anita, these actresses were still second-tier stars in Carter's productions, not just any extras. It was an opportunity to work with the legendary director, and they were eager to see if John might take the bait.
The eyes of several supporting actresses nearby lit up with interest, an eager expectation in their gazes.