His Genius Wife Is A Superstar Chapter 1646: Master Beauty

Iris Long took to the stage to deliver her latest track, "I, the Dreamer." Because her band hadn't traveled with her to the Philippines, she performed using a minus-one backing track.

Her performance didn't suffer in the slightest, however. The sheer skill and soul in her vocals were undeniable, sending chills through everyone in the room. Even those watching from their living rooms were swept up in a wave of emotion and awe as they listened to her sing.

Although there was no live audience present, the studio felt just as electric as a packed stadium. The hosts, television crew, and Iris’s own entourage acted as a spirited crowd, their enthusiastic cheering and clapping echoing throughout the live feed.

Once the song concluded, Iris joined the "It's Morning, Philippines" team to host a brief raffle for the viewers. To enter, fans had to submit their responses via SMS or through the program's social media platforms.

Participants were required to answer three specific questions.

Question #1: Which company is Iris Long currently representing in the Philippines?

Answer: Orchidia Philippines

Question #2: What is the name of the Filipino assistant and best friend of Iris Long?

Answer: Dominic Chua

Question #3: What is the name of the newest song released by Iris Long?

Answer: "I, the Dreamer"

A total of one hundred winners would be selected. Each would be awarded a gift box and a voucher from Orchidia Philippines, along with a signed photobook and a free digital download of "I, the Dreamer."

Within five minutes, the show was inundated with tens of thousands of entries, a number that continued to climb rapidly. It was obvious the Black Stars were tuned in. It also seemed that many non-fans were joining the excitement, likely due to Iris Long’s constant presence on local TV and radio over the last forty-eight hours.

Iris and her group had retreated to her dressing room, though they remained on-site until the broadcast reached its conclusion.

Just before the show went off the air, the names of the one hundred winners were read live. The prizes were to be dispatched to the winners directly by Orchidia Philippines and Iris Long.

Before making their exit, Iris and her team spent some time socializing with the hosts and crew, posing for photographs and signing autographs for everyone.

"Everything is going perfectly so far," Iris remarked as the team hurried toward her next professional commitment.

"You were absolutely incredible, love," Jin Liwei complimented her.

She gave him a quick kiss on the cheek, leaving him looking thoroughly pleased with himself.

Meanwhile, Dom was occupied on his phone, managing the logistics for their upcoming live appearance.

Once he finished the call, he gave Iris a rundown of what to expect. Even though she had been briefed before, she gave him her full attention.

"We’re heading to a long-running noon variety program titled 'Ready, Set, Lunch Party'," Dom noted. "It has been on the air for nearly forty years, even longer than 'It's Morning, Philippines'. You’ll be guesting on their hit segment, 'Call of the Spotlight'. It’s a competition for amateur singers that currently uses a head-to-head showdown format. Boss, you're going to be a surprise guest judge to help pick the daily winner. Since we're staying through the weekend, the producers are also wondering if you'd return to judge the weekly finals."

Iris pondered the request. "Is there enough room in my schedule for that?"

"If it's something you want to do, Boss, I'll make sure it fits," Dom replied confidently.

"Let's evaluate the talent in the competition first," Iris decided. "If the singers are impressive, I'll do it. Otherwise, we will stick to the plan we already have."

"Got it, Boss." Dom recorded the instruction on his tablet.

Jin Liwei gave his wife's hand a supportive squeeze, and she returned the gesture with a smile.

Despite the brutal traffic, their driver got them to the next station right on time. A high-level reception awaited them in the building's lobby.

The station president and several executives had personally come to meet them. Iris felt a bit surprised but deeply honored. After exchanging greetings, the group followed the executives, chatting as they walked.

The leadership team led them toward the "Ready, Set, Lunch Party" studio, where Iris noticed massive queues of people waiting outside.

"From Monday to Saturday, thousands of people start lining up at daybreak just for a chance at a free seat in the audience," the president noted. "The reason is that 'Ready, Set, Lunch Party' and our partners give away hundreds of thousands in prizes every day. On lucky days, the winnings can even exceed a million pesos."

"That is truly impressive," Iris said, her interest in the show's concept growing.

Jin Liwei nodded, finding the business model intriguing. It was a refreshing change to see a show that prioritized rewarding regular people over just showcasing stars. It seemed "Ready, Set, Lunch Party" utilized celebrities to bring joy to the public rather than just profiting off them.

The president introduced Iris and Jin Liwei to the show's director. They were also greeted by several of the primary hosts.

"Meet our biggest star, Master Beauty," the director said, taking over the introductions. "He is... well, she is also an executive producer and one of the people in charge here."

The comment drew laughter from the group.

"Hello, Iris. I am Master Beauty. Welcome to our country and to 'Ready, Set, Lunch Party'!"

Iris politely returned the greeting.

Master Beauty was a larger-than-life gay man dressed as a very flamboyant lady. Her—ahem—her attire was incredibly theatrical, featuring a massive wig and heavy drag makeup. However, her voice was a deep, resonant bass. The juxtaposition was quite funny.

Still, as Iris shook Master Beauty’s hand, she noticed the sharp intelligence and genuine warmth in the host's eyes.

That sincerity was something she had encountered frequently during her stay. The Filipino people possessed a deep, authentic desire to make visitors feel welcome in their homes and communities. Their level of hospitality was extraordinary, something both Iris and Jin Liwei truly admired.

As Iris talked with Master Beauty and met the other hosts, she realized she wasn't very familiar with the local entertainment scene. Dom had already briefed her, however, that everyone on this stage was a household name.

Master Beauty was currently a top-tier entertainer in the Philippines. Her comedy films were massive hits that consistently broke records. She had even held the "Box Office King" title for several years running. It seemed she was perfectly content with that title rather than insisting on being called the "Box Office Queen."

Iris enjoyed her conversation with Master Beauty, finding her quick-witted humor very similar to Dom’s.

Soon, the director and hosts had to leave to prepare for the live broadcast. Every second had to be meticulously timed for the airwaves. Even so, Master Beauty was famous for her improvisational skills, which helped the show dominate the noon-time ratings.

The station executives also took their leave. Iris held onto a large bouquet and a gift bag they had presented to her. Since the meeting was unexpected, she hadn't brought any gifts for them.

"Dom, please organize some thank-you gifts for the president and the executives."

"On it, Boss!" Dom noted the task on his tablet immediately.

A staff member escorted the group to a private dressing room. Along the corridor, they encountered younger, up-and-coming stars who were also appearing on the show. These performers greeted Iris Long with the excitement of starstruck fans.

Iris graciously paused to provide autographs and take photos with them.

They only stopped when a staffer reminded everyone that they were going live in five minutes.

Once inside the dressing room, Iris and her team found that the production had provided lunch for them, even though they had brought their own snacks and planned to eat out later.

These were no ordinary meals.

They were presented with elegant, three-tiered wooden bento boxes featuring a blend of Filipino and Chinese cuisine. The presentation was sophisticated, accompanied by various drinks, desserts, and promotional items from the show's sponsors.

"This is so beautifully done," Iris remarked, admiring the spread. "Thank you so much."

"It is our pleasure, Miss Iris," the staff member replied with a bashful smile. "Those bento boxes were made by local craftsmen, and you are welcome to keep them. Please settle in; I will come back for you when it is time to join the judges. If you need anything at all, just ask. We are happy to help. We hope you enjoy your time here, and thank you for joining us on 'Ready, Set, Lunch Party'!"

After the staff member exited, Iris looked toward Dom.

"This show has certainly made a fantastic first impression," she noted. "I really hope the singers today are just as impressive. I'm looking forward to hearing them."