Fans of the talent show, Produce 101, are mesmerized by the performances of their idols. [Photo by Xu Haoyu/China Daily]

Two-way chemistry

Shi Hui, a 24-year-old office worker based in Shanghai, traveled to the Hangzhou studios in East China's Zhejiang province to promote her idol Meng Meiqi by erecting digital billboards, portable display boards and large posters of Meng.

The money Shi used for the promotion was collected from Meng's fans who openly raised funds totaling more than 12 million yuan ($1.8 million) in the past three months. Shi spent over 10,000 yuan in votes for Meng.

"I want her to stand in the center of the final group this time," says Shi, adding that Meng's unassuming look reflects her "say less, do more" approach.

Another fan, Feng Shuyi, 27, also found an affinity in a rapper of her age named Guo Ying.

"She doesn't court the audience with sweet words," says Feng. "I can feel her determination to prove herself. I'm the same age as her, and I completely understand her thirst for success."

As a journalist who has some insight into the entertainment industry, Feng says the all-female band created by the show probably won't amount to much.

"But by choosing an idol to support in the show is like playing a video game, and watching your character overcome all the barriers to complete their mission," she says. "It'll give me a sense of satisfaction if I can help Guo make it happen."

Li Qiying, a graduate from Tongji University says she never supported a star before Wang Ju, another contestant on the show.

"At first, it was Wang's powerful performance that appealed to me," Li says. "Later, I stood by her because of her views on women's independence and diversity in beauty, as well as her individuality."

"Her message in the show struck a chord with me and inspired her fans to be more confident."