Irene raised a hand to answer the call, her tone relaxed and indifferent. "You finally found time to call me. Has Fox finally decided to come steal my show?"
Adelaide's deep, gentle laughter came from the other end. "Haha, that's right. This time, the company's senior management collectively instructed me to discuss a partnership with you personally. But let me make this clear first: business is business, friendship is friendship. I won't use our relationship to make you accept a losing deal."
"This may sound like an exaggeration, but among all American television networks, no one understands the logic of talent-show variety programming better than Fox. We've made American Idol for so many years. We've stepped into every pitfall, figured out every audience preference, ratings pattern, and promotional rhythm, and we understand the bottlenecks and shortcomings of established talent shows today."
"Your The Voice happens to avoid every cliché of the old talent-show format. It's fair, pure, focused on ability and content, packed with freshness, and has limitless potential. We have the most mature broadcasting channels and a nationwide audience base. You have top-tier program content and an innovative format. Together, it's a win-win situation."
Irene listened quietly, her fingertips lightly brushing the tabletop. She calmly asked, "You know I have my own television network. Independent broadcasting is completely feasible; its influence simply can't compare to the Big Four. I can retain full control over the copyright, operations, and all derivative rights without splitting revenue with any platform or being constrained by anyone. Why should I choose to work with Fox?"
This was her most fundamental concern and the bottom line of every partnership negotiation.
Adelaide offered no defense upon hearing this. Instead, he frankly acknowledged Irene's point, his tone open and clear. "You're absolutely right. With independent broadcasting, you