I am Hollywood

[Chapter 1136: Talk Show Response (3)]

This episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show aimed primarily to address the sudden internet gossip event that occurred the day before. However, it wasn't until now that Oprah brought up the key issue, which had been thoroughly discussed as part of the media strategy. Even without the experience acquired in the media industry over the years, Eric understood from a lifetime of experiences that audience emotions needed careful management.

Without any particular skill or technique, Eric's frankness today could very well have backfired. Fortunately, this episode had been meticulously arranged from start to finish. After just over ten minutes of back-and-forth, most viewers had formed a good initial impression of Eric and his family. At this point, mentioning the internet gossip would instinctively put many audience members in Eric's corner.

This bias undoubtedly worked to Eric's advantage. On the television screen, as Oprah posed her question, Eric's expression grew serious, and he shook his head, saying, "I don't think this has anything to do with freedom of the press. Over the years, I have tried to keep Kevin and Elia away from the media spotlight, but it's not because I see anything scandalous; they are my children, and I love them. I also cherish the special relationship I have with Vicky and Joan.

The reason I've done this is simply to provide them with a peaceful living environment. In fact, most people around me know about Kevin and Elia; many of them often come to visit the little ones. Then there was yesterday, when a whole slew of articles about the kids suddenly appeared online. Anyone with even a little bit of critical thinking understands that this is a blatant smear campaign. They not only fabricated malicious fake news but also released sensitive information like the children's photos and addresses. This is a severe invasion of privacy that threatens the safety of the kids. So, I don't accept their so-called accusations. This is just a man protecting his women and children from unwarranted harm."

After Eric's compelling response, the camera panned across the audience, and nearly everyone there wore expressions of empathy and approval. And if emotions could take physical form, the air in the studio would have been filled with stars symbolizing admiration and longing.

The audience of The Oprah Winfrey Show was predominantly female. While more women were starting to pursue independence, no woman would reject the idea of having a strong man around to protect her at any time. After allowing the audience to digest Eric's words, Oprah continued, "Over the years in the media industry, I've been through many similar incidents. I believe that all freedom should have its limits, which is why we have laws to govern behavior that falls outside of the established norms."

Finishing her statement, Oprah turned back to Eric, asking, "What do you think caused such a malicious incident to emerge suddenly?"

"I'm not sure at the moment," Eric replied, shaking his head, "but it could very well be because of Iron Man."

As Eric spoke, he gestured towards the large screen behind him, which instantly displayed a carefully selected solo poster for Iron Man. Eric's character, Tony Stark, was showcased in his red-and-gold Mark III armor with his helmet raised, allowing everyone to see the obvious resemblance between the dark-haired, bearded man and Eric.

The female audience erupted in a mix of astonished and excited screams at the sight of the handsome figure on the movie poster. Once the noise calmed down, Eric continued, "Everyone knows that Iron Man premiered in cities like Tokyo and London, receiving great critical acclaim. Discounting cameos, this is my second leading role in ten years. Perhaps some people don't want to see it succeed, which is why they resorted to these tactics as the release date approaches."

Oprah nodded with understanding but didn't delve further into the connection between Iron Man and the internet gossip. Most of the viewers, being women, were likely uninterested in the cutthroat nature of business rivalries. Therefore, Oprah shifted back to the film, saying, "So Eric, given your wealth, why do you still choose to act in films? You're also working on another project; balancing two major productions at once must be tiring."

"Because that's my job," Eric replied with a smile. "I may have many titles now, but fundamentally, I've always been a director, a screenwriter, and an actor. Most of my focus has been in Hollywood, so as long as I manage my time well, balancing these roles isn't difficult. As for investments outside Hollywood, I prefer to leave that to professionals and avoid getting too involved."

"And as a director, screenwriter, and actor, you've casually stepped into some side ventures, and without realizing it, you've become the first centi-billionaire in U.S. history?" Oprah teased, drawing laughter from the audience.

Eric chuckled, casually waving a hand. "What can I say? There are so many opportunities right in front of you. If you see them and do nothing, that doesn't make sense. So, I usually just go along with it."

"Eric, those words might leave many professional investors feeling embarrassed," Oprah remarked. "But since you can easily spot opportunities, can you offer some investment advice to everyone here?"

"I wouldn't dare to give specific investment advice," Eric said, shaking his head. "But at a broad level, we should recognize that the world is at a pivotal moment in the third industrial revolution. Like the previous two, this will create entirely new industries across human society. Although we have reached a peak with these new technologies, I believe that in the next twenty years, both traditional capital and the average person will find countless opportunities to accumulate wealth from these emerging sectors. Of course, if you miss this chance, you might have to wait another hundred years."

"One hundred years? I doubt any of us could wait that long, so let's cherish this opportunity," Oprah mused, then continued. "Back to the film, Eric, it's said that the character Tony Stark is based on the legendary Howard Hughes, another incredibly wealthy figure. However, it's clear that you have surpassed him in many aspects. Many media sources even claim you share numerous traits with both men. What's your take on that?"

"Honestly, before filming Iron Man, I took the time to read a biography of Howard Hughes."

"And then what?" Oprah prompted.

"I was disappointed."

Everyone in the audience, to varying degrees, had heard something about Howard Hughes and was surprised by Eric's candid remark. Oprah mirrored their surprise: "Eric, are you saying you were disappointed in Howard Hughes?"

"No," Eric countered unexpectedly, shaking his head. "I was disappointed in that biography. The fact that Howard Hughes remains such a remembered figure indicates he was an extraordinary man. Yet the biography largely failed to objectively assess his contributions to our country's aerospace, defense, and film industries, instead spending most of its time sensationalizing his private life. My leisure time is limited, so I could only read the biography briefly. I don't know if other books on Howard Hughes are the same way, but if they are, I'd be even more disappointed."

"Eric, is this a reflection of what happened yesterday?" Oprah asked.

"Not at all. That was my genuine reaction to the biography I read a year ago," Eric replied. "Regarding your earlier question, I find it tough to accurately evaluate Howard Hughes. However, I believe that Tony Stark and I are fundamentally different types of people.

He's a very contradictory character; according to the comics, his life roughly splits into two stages. Before becoming Iron Man, he was a brilliant but hedonistic billionaire; after donning the suit, he began to bear responsibilities typical of a superhero, yet his nature remained unchanged. This makes him a flawed superhero, but those flaws also make him more relatable and human.

So, Howard Hughes, Tony Stark, and myself - I think we're three completely different individuals. In portraying Tony Stark, I didn't channel any of my characteristics at all; I was just playing another person, which is why I chose a completely different look for the role. If I weren't sitting here and just looking at that poster, I doubt anyone would immediately connect it to Eric Williams."

"Hearing you talk about this, I suddenly feel even more eager to see this movie," Oprah said eagerly. "Eric, Iron Man is set to release on May 7, correct?"

"Yes, May 7," Eric confirmed.

"Then I hope everyone will go out to the theaters to support it, as Eric Williams' movies have never let us down," Oprah said. After that, she stood up and embraced Eric one last time, adding, "Thank you for being part of today's program. Now, let's take a look at an exciting trailer for Iron Man."

With Oprah's words, the applause rose as the screen switched to play the trailer for Iron Man.

...

On 75th Street, inside Cindy's apartment.

It wasn't until Eric's figure completely disappeared from the screen that Stephanie Seymour snapped back to reality. Turning to look, she saw Cindy leisurely sipping green tea. Picking up her own cup, Stephanie took a sip only to find it completely cold.

Setting the tea back down, Stephanie eyed Cindy curiously and asked, "What are you thinking about?"

Cindy seemed thoughtful but replied lightly, "Oh, nothing."

Stephanie didn't press further. She always felt somewhat intimidated in front of Cindy. Taking a careful sip of her now-cold green tea, she added, "Actually, I always thought he was a little bastard; now I feel he's not as worthless as I thought."

Cindy shot her a quick glance and suddenly asked, "Have you ever tried to flirt with him and got rejected?"

Stephanie's hand shook, almost dropping her teacup, then quickly composed herself, shaking her head, "Of course not."

"Oh, what a pity," Cindy said with a smile, her eyes bright, but she didn't continue to pry. "I used to think he was a bastard too, but he's one of those types that are addictively charming. After spending some time with him, you realize you can't live without him."

Stephanie pretended to be disdainful, "You're such a sap."

"Speaking of which, you're going to need his approval to get that hosting position."

The memory of that slap from him the other night suddenly surged back into Stephanie's mind, causing a shiver to course through her. "He really is a control freak."

"Men are all the same at their core. The difference is whether they are willing to show a little generosity. This is something your Peter definitely falls short in."

Stephanie shifted uncomfortably, her provocative body turning slightly. "Can we not talk about him?"

"Alright," Cindy said, clearly in a good mood. She set down her cup, took the cold green tea from Stephanie, and replaced it with hot tea, smiling, "Let's chat about the show. Actually, I haven't even told Lifetime about my resignation yet. But they've already renewed for Season 10, so it's like I'm secretly preparing to breach my contract."

Stephanie was surprised, "So, what will you do?"

"That's where Eric comes in," Cindy laughed. "If he gives the nod, everything will be sorted. Of course, the person I choose to replace me needs to be capable enough to carry the show. It's already the end of April, with Season 9 starting production in June. I only have May to pin down the new host, so time is short. Let me share some tips I've accumulated over the years."

Stephanie was curious about Cindy's decision to leave her hosting position on America's Next Top Model but quickly set that thought aside as Cindy began to share her experiences. She focused intently on the conversation.

*****

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