The Netflix series “3 Body Problem” has emerged as a resounding success, captivating audiences worldwide. Adapted from the first book of the trilogy “Remembrance of Earth’s Past” by acclaimed Chinese author Liu Cixin, the show is a testament to the streaming giant’s knack for striking gold once again. However, the journey of bringing this literary masterpiece to the screen has been fraught with intrigue and tragedy, involving elements of murder, jealousy, and revenge.
At the center of this tumultuous tale is Lin Qi, a visionary billionaire whose untimely demise shook the entertainment industry. Often dubbed “The Billionaire Millennial,” Lin amassed his wealth by capitalizing on the burgeoning mobile gaming industry, riding the wave of its global popularity. His company, Yoozoo, achieved staggering success with titles like “Game of Thrones: Winter Is Coming,” catapulting Lin into the ranks of China’s youngest billionaires. Yet, his ambitions extended far beyond gaming, as he sought to expand China’s cultural influence on the world stage.
Lin’s passion project was the adaptation of “3 Body Problem,” which he envisioned as China’s answer to “Star Wars,” destined for global acclaim. Beginning in 2014, Lin embarked on a mission to acquire the rights to the trilogy, investing a staggering $150 million in the endeavor. His vision encompassed a multimedia franchise spanning films, television shows, video games, and anime, aimed at captivating audiences across the globe.
However, Lin’s grand vision was tragically cut short on December 25, 2020, when he fell victim to a sinister plot orchestrated by Xu Yao, a man he had entrusted with overseeing the business operations of his empire. Xu, motivated by resentment and greed after being demoted by Lin, orchestrated a meticulously planned murder using poison, inspired by the television series “Breaking Bad.” Despite Lin’s hospitalization, Xu callously withheld crucial information about the poison, sealing Lin’s fate.
In the aftermath of Lin’s death, Xu’s malevolent scheme unraveled, revealing a chilling web of deception and premeditation. His elaborate preparations, including the establishment of a laboratory to experiment with toxins and the manipulation of psychiatric evaluations, underscored the depths of his depravity. Xu’s quest for exoneration through an insanity plea ultimately failed, culminating in his sentencing to death on March 22, 2024, a day after the premiere of “3 Body Problem” on Netflix.
Despite the tragedy surrounding Lin’s untimely passing, his legacy endures, with the show serving as a testament to his vision and tenacity. Posthumously credited as an executive producer, Lin’s contributions to the series stand as a poignant reminder of his enduring impact on the entertainment industry. As the show garners increasing attention and acclaim, it serves as both a celebration of Lin’s vision and a cautionary tale of the perils that can accompany ambition and betrayal in the pursuit of success.