Almost Famous Episode 11 Recap
> Almost Famous Recap
You Zhiqi awoke in his psychiatrist's home, disoriented and wondering how he got there. The psychiatrist informed him that he had called during a blackout and fainted mid-call, but fortunately, his phone's location tracking allowed him to be found and prevented another public incident. The psychiatrist, noticing You Zhiqi's poor condition, directly asked if he had increased his medication dosage without permission.
You Zhiqi confessed that he had, admitting he felt he had no choice because he simply couldn't fall asleep. The doctor sternly warned You Zhiqi about the severity of his condition, emphasizing that his health was paramount. He revealed that he was invited to a prestigious academic conference on PTSD in Japan, where world-renowned experts would gather. He proposed that You Zhiqi take a leave from school and accompany him for intensive treatment, assuring him of complete confidentiality.
The treatment, however, would require at least a year. You Zhiqi hesitated, expressing his desire to complete the upcoming final drama, believing he owed it to himself and Cheng Ming. The doctor, in turn, urged him to consider the gravity of his illness, stating that his current state made it unsuitable for him to be with anyone and that delaying treatment would only cause more pain for both him and Cheng Ming.
He advised You Zhiqi to carefully weigh his options and provide an answer soon. In class, the teacher praised Cheng Ming's diligent efforts, noting her consistent morning exercises despite her average foundation. He then publicly criticized You Zhiqi for his repeated absences, warning that continued truancy would result in a failing grade for the semester. Concerned, Cheng Ming tried to call You Zhiqi after class but couldn't reach him.
Her friend Amy then suggested they all go to Wei Feng's shop for a study session, implying it would be helpful for their upcoming final exams. At Wei Feng's shop, Wei Feng expressed concern about You Zhiqi's unreachability, though he was somewhat relieved to hear that You Zhiqi had returned to his agency. Suddenly, Cheng Ming received a call from You You, You Zhiqi's agent. Rushing to meet her, Cheng Ming immediately asked about You Zhiqi's well-being.
You You, however, steered the conversation to Cheng Ming, asking if she had previously submitted a songs demo to their company. Cheng Ming confirmed she had. You You then enthusiastically offered Cheng Ming an artist contract, praising her singing talent and declaring her a future star. You You explained the company's plan to pair Cheng Ming with You Zhiqi as the "hottest partners and CP" to create buzz and attend events together.
To show her sincerity, You You even had a contract ready, mentioning that famous musicians were already composing songs for Cheng Ming. Overwhelmed by the sudden opportunity, Cheng Ming was on the verge of signing. Just then, You Zhiqi arrived and abruptly stopped Cheng Ming, pulling her away. He defiantly told You You that Cheng Ming would not sign the contract as long as he was around.
Furious, You You watched them leave, muttering that no artist was beyond her reach. As You Zhiqi walked away with Cheng Ming, she angrily demanded to know why he was interfering. You Zhiqi questioned why she had met with You You and why she would consider signing with his agency. He explained that signing a contract now would mean losing her freedom and facing immense difficulties as an artist.
Cheng Ming, feeling insulted, accused him of thinking she wasn't capable or strong enough to pursue her dreams. She declared that singing was her dream and she would not give up, then stormed off. Later that night, Cheng Ming lay in bed, recalling You Zhiqi's words and his confession, conflicted about his motives for stopping her. Meanwhile, You Zhiqi received another call from his psychiatrist, pressing him for a decision about Japan.
You Zhiqi requested more time, still undecided and worried about Cheng Ming's situation if he left. Professor Li Shuangbai announced the final exam would be a musical performance, a prestigious event that would be open to other faculty, school leaders, and alumni. He called for volunteers for the male and female lead roles. Qu Shiyun was the first to volunteer for the female lead. Feeling a strong desire to prove herself, Cheng Ming also stepped forward.
For the male lead, You Zhiqi volunteered, and immediately, other male students withdrew, acknowledging that competing against him would be futile. Professor Li then assigned You Zhiqi the male lead and stated that Cheng Ming and Qu Shiyun would audition with a scene in the next class to determine the female lead. Qu Shiyun, curious about Cheng Ming's sudden ambition, asked her why she wanted the role. Cheng Ming simply replied that she wanted to prove herself to everyone.
Cheng Ming practiced her lines alone when You Zhiqi entered the room. He joined her in practice and then sincerely apologized for his previous behavior and explained his true reasons for opposing her signing with You You's company. He reiterated that his agency's interest was solely in creating short-term hype by binding them as a "CP," not in fostering her long-term musical dreams.
He stressed that You You could not offer her what she truly desired, and once on that path, it would be difficult to turn back. You Zhiqi urged her not to rely on his fame for popularity but to achieve her own success based on her talent. Understanding his genuine concern and intentions, Cheng Ming apologized for misunderstanding him and promised not to sign with the company. Later, Cheng Ming met with You You again to formally decline the offer.
She explained her decision to focus on her studies and build a solid foundation to become a musician, stating she would not sign with any agency while in school. She also expressed her understanding of You Zhiqi's situation, asking You You to give him space to experience a normal college life. You You dismissed Cheng Ming's reasoning, highlighting You Zhiqi's immense popularity and commercial value in the industry.
She then launched into a tirade, questioning Cheng Ming's stage experience, confidence, and ability to succeed without a top-tier agent like herself, implying that Cheng Ming was simply not good enough. Despite the hurtful words, Cheng Ming firmly stated that she would not sign the contract. Feeling disheartened and doubting her abilities after You You's harsh criticisms, Cheng Ming was later found by Wei Feng on the sports field.
He noticed her distraction and, upon learning about her encounter with You You, encouraged her to have confidence in herself. Wei Feng pointed out that if Cheng Ming truly lacked talent, You You would not have bothered trying to sign her. His words helped Cheng Ming regain her resolve and renewed her determination to perform well in the upcoming musical. After Cheng Ming firmly declined her offer, You You, determined to undermine Cheng Ming, contacted Qu Shiyun.
Qu Shiyun, flattered to be approached by an "ace agent," eagerly asked if You You intended to sign her. You You responded that it wasn't impossible, but first, she needed Qu Shiyun to prove her potential. You You specifically challenged Qu Shiyun to secure the female lead role in the upcoming class musical, implying that success in this would lead to future cooperation.
Driven by a desire for fame and recognition, Qu Shiyun readily agreed, vowing to win the female lead role. During the final audition for the female lead, both Cheng Ming and Qu Shiyun performed alongside You Zhiqi. Qu Shiyun's performance was perceived as overly dramatic, while Cheng Ming delivered a very moving and natural portrayal, earning significant applause. Professor Li, after reviewing the performances, announced Cheng Ming as the female lead and Qu Shiyun as the second female lead. He congratulated Cheng Ming, encouraging her to work hard for this important first public performance, and reminded Qu Shiyun to also do her best.
