Shanghai cable channel, Orient Satellite Television, has launched nationwide auditions for its "American Idol"-type contest, "Cheer Up! Good Men".

 

Beginning April 10, auditions are being conducted in Shanghai, Wuhan, Hangzhou, Chengdu, Shenyang, and Guangzhou until June 30. Any Chinese man over the age of 18 is eligible to participate.

 

On July 1, 30 region-level winners will compete in elimination rounds until the final on August 12. The man with the most votes from TV viewers and judges will be crowned "Super Good Man".

 

The contest aims to find China's most charming man who combines traditional morals with modern flair.

 

Reality television shows took off in China in 2000 with the introduction of endurance programs based on the hugely successful "Survivor" series. Singing contests like "Super Girls", based on American Idol, have also become exceedingly popular.

 

(Xinhua News Agency April 13, 2006)