Right from the first images, Erik became the most mentioned character among the artists participating in "Sao Nhap Ngu 2026". What caused controversy was not military uniforms or styling, but the carefully cared for face with smooth foundation, even skin tone and makeup style imbued with the image of an idol.
The male singer's post on Fanpage and social networking platforms quickly called Erik "Vietnamese version of the foundation general". This way of calling originated from the nickname once associated with actor Truong Lang Hach when he played a general in a Chinese historical film but had an appearance that was too flashy, causing viewers to think that the image lacked weight and was not suitable for the battle scene.
The common point between the two cases is not in appearance or acting ability, but in the mismatch between image and context. Soldiers or generals are inherently associated with a feeling of strength, harshness, being affected by sun and wind and high intensity of training. Therefore, when appearing with an almost perfect face, viewers easily have the feeling that the image is prioritized for aesthetics over authenticity.
In fact, public reaction also reflects the expectations that "Sao nhập ngũ" has built throughout many seasons of broadcasting. Unlike many reality entertainment programs, the appeal of "Sao nhập ngũ" lies in the fact that artists have to leave their familiar image to adapt to the military environment. Changes in skin, figure or appearance after many days of training are always details that audiences are interested in.
Therefore, posters with a strong idol style unintentionally create a distance from the spirit that the program pursues. The public does not react because of the makeup artist, but because the promotional image does not evoke the feeling of someone about to enter the military environment.
However, many opinions also believe that it is too early to judge Erik just through posters. These are just images taken before filming or before the artist enters a rigorous training process. When the program airs, meticulous makeup or styling will no longer be a decisive factor.
What the audience is waiting for is still Erik's way of adapting to the intensity of training, overcoming personal limits and showing discipline - values that have made the brand of "Sao nhập ngũ" for nearly a decade.
