As the global entertainment industry shifts across various trends, the concept of an “A-list star” is becoming increasingly detached from traditional standards.

The evolving criteria of A-list status

The term "A-list star" originated in the American film industry in the early 20th century, during the era when the "studio system" dominated Hollywood. At that time, major studios controlled every aspect of filmmaking, from production and distribution to screening.

Within this system, stars were informally ranked A, B, or C, to determine salaries, casting decisions, and promotional investments. These rankings were largely based on the subjective judgment of studio executives.

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HIEUTHUHAI sparks debate over his ranking due to rapid rise to fame. Photo: FBNV

In 1997, journalist and film critic James Ulmer formalized this concept with a quantifiable methodology known as The Ulmer Scale. It measures a star's commercial power based on four key factors: bankability (revenue-generating power and ability to attract investment), career management (strategic role selection and long-term vision), professionalism, and risk factor.

Today, the A, B, C-tier classification is applied not just in cinema but also in music, fashion, and sports. However, in the digital era, traditional criteria have become less reliable. The entertainment landscape is now heavily influenced by social media and fan-driven culture. For example, metrics like YouTube views, engagement on X (formerly Twitter), and viral reach may outweigh sales figures.

From the perspective of the general public, a current A-list star in the entertainment industry is typically expected to meet several criteria:

High commercial value, demonstrated through product sales, high appearance fees, and brand endorsement deals

Widespread fame and significant influence, marked by public appeal, media and social media saturation, trendsetting ability, and becoming a cultural icon

Recognition for achievements, either by the public or industry professionals, including notable works and prestigious awards

A strong, professional, and lasting personal brand, supported by a competent team, clear development strategy, a clean public image, and the ability to inspire

How many A-listers are there in Vietnamese showbiz?
My Tam - an S-list star, and Ho Ngoc Ha - an A-list singer with a strong personal brand. Photo: FBNV

In Vietnam's music industry, VietNamNet surveyed key stakeholders such as show organizers, event planners, brand marketers, and talent agencies - those most likely to classify artists. The results revealed that as of 2025, there is no standardized, unified system in place to rank singers in Vietnam. Artist rankings are still largely based on individual experience and subjective judgment, depending on one's role or company.

In this context, Vietnamese A-list stars are generally grouped into three categories:

Rising stars: HIEUTHUHAI, MONO, Phuong My Chi, Duong Domic...

Established stars with strong personal brands still active in the industry: Ho Ngoc Ha, SOOBIN, Hoang Thuy Linh, Hoa Minzy, Noo Phuoc Thinh...

Veteran artists with well-established brands now past their peak: Dam Vinh Hung, Lam Truong, Ho Quynh Huong, Le Quyen...

Above the A-list tier are four S-list stars: My Tam, Ha Anh Tuan, Son Tung M-TP, and Den Vau - previously highlighted in VietNamNet’s report “Vietnamese star appearance fees reach 2 billion VND per show” (approx. USD 78,700).

Looking at these three A-list groups, two key points emerge. First, there is a distinction between booking fees and an artist’s brand positioning. While the two are related, they are not identical.

“For example, Dam Vinh Hung may command a modest appearance fee, equivalent to a B-tier artist, yet his brand positioning is definitely A-list,” one source shared. “Similarly, Van Mai Huong may not be perceived as A-list by the general public, but her quoted fees are moderate - around B+ - to build lasting collaborations.”

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Son Tung M-TP

The same source noted that some artists deliberately inflate their fees to elevate their perceived status but end up being left without gigs for an entire year.

Second, artist rankings in showbiz are never fixed - whether rising stars or long-standing names. A young singer may become a sensation overnight thanks to a reality show, performing like an A-lister, only to fade to B-tier months later as momentum disappears. Conversely, a scandal can swiftly knock even S-list or A-list celebrities down to B or C status, as public and brand trust evaporates.

As the market grows, competition and turnover intensify, shortening the cycle of stardom. Public interest in celebrity rankings is constant and often sparks fanbase debates. After all, no fan wants to believe their idol is less successful than others.

Still, in a market as unstructured as Vietnam’s, the concept of A-list stars remains vague, often based on emotion and fleeting trends - unlike more systematic international models.

Yet, a common thread among Vietnam’s current A-list stars is their enduring work ethic and gradual rise. They’ve built their status not overnight, but over time.

Ultimately, the essence of art lies in the work itself. Artists who remain dedicated to their craft, respect their audience, and uphold integrity will eventually earn a fitting place in the spotlight.

Bich Hop