Vietnam’s entertainment industry is witnessing a historic shift with the emergence of Anh Trai Vượt Ngàn Chông Gai, a reality show that has taken the nation by storm. Produced by YeaH1 Group and adapted from MangoTV’s Call Me By Fire, this groundbreaking program is not just a television hit but a cultural movement, reflecting Vietnam’s push towards a globally recognized creative industry.
A Game-Changer in Vietnamese Entertainment
In alignment with the government’s directive to foster Vietnam’s cultural and creative industries, Anh Trai Vượt Ngàn Chông Gai has become a transformative force in the entertainment landscape. The show was the highest-rated program on Vietnam Television in 2024, with numerous performances topping YouTube’s trending charts. It represents a significant leap in Vietnam’s journey to establish itself as a major player in the global entertainment industry, embracing innovation while preserving cultural identity.
More Than a Reality Show: A Cultural and Social Phenomenon
Bringing together 33 renowned men over the age of 30 from diverse fields—including music, dance, film, sports, and photography—the show goes beyond a standard music competition. It has become a powerful social movement, uniting audiences across generations and bridging cultural gaps. By modernizing traditional Vietnamese art forms such as Chèo and Cải Lương, Anh Trai Vượt Ngàn Chông Gai has successfully brought heritage to a wider, contemporary audience. One particularly moving performance even helped raise funds for over 100 life-saving heart surgeries, demonstrating the show’s profound impact beyond entertainment.
Elevating Vietnamese Music to Global Standards
With its high production values, stunning performances, and innovative storytelling, the show has set a new benchmark for Vietnam’s entertainment industry. The quality of production, staging, and lighting rivals international standards, sparking a resurgence of passion for Vietnamese artists among young audiences. It has also gained government recognition, with the Prime Minister acknowledging its role in the sustainable development of Vietnam’s cultural industry.
A Cultural Phenomenon Driving Economic Growth
Beyond television, Anh Trai Vượt Ngàn Chông Gai has dominated Vietnam’s live entertainment scene. Concert tickets for four nights sold out in under 90 minutes, with over 140,000 fans expected to attend, setting a new industry record. This success has fueled a thriving ecosystem of fan-driven initiatives, from charitable fundraisers to artist-honoring social projects, significantly benefiting the tourism and advertising industries.
Aiming for a Guinness World Record
On March 22, 2025, during the third concert in Ho Chi Minh City, fans will attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people wearing traditional Vietnamese clothing. This ambitious feat further cements the show’s role in cultural preservation and national pride, bringing Vietnam’s heritage to the global stage.
Expanding Its Legacy with a Feature Film
To further celebrate its success, Anh Trai Vượt Ngàn Chông Gai – The Movie is set to premiere, offering a cinematic tribute to the dedication of the production team and the 33 esteemed participants. Through a raw and emotional lens, the film will capture the heart and soul of the show, preserving its spirit for future generations and further cementing Vietnam’s place in the international entertainment industry. As Vietnam accelerates its efforts to build a thriving entertainment sector, Anh Trai Vượt Ngàn Chông Gai stands as a shining example of how strategic investment, artistic excellence, and cultural preservation can elevate the nation’s global presence. This is not just a reality show—it is a movement reshaping the future of Vietnamese entertainment.
