Tian Liang (L) and Lei Feng

The news that diva diver Tian Liang will play Lei Feng in the new TV series "Lei Feng" has triggered quite a controversy among Chinese netizens.

The former diving world champion has signed a contract with the Zhejiang Yongle Audio and Video Company to play Lei Feng in its new TV serial which will start shooting on April 9, according to the Oriental Morning Post.

Lei Feng (1940-62), a soldier of the People's Liberation Army, is a household name among the Chinese. He is considered a Good Samaritan for his selfless service.

Capturing the controversy over the role are such online comments as, "Lei Feng kept a low profile all his life, while Tian thrives on publicity; Lei was so thrifty that he wore clothes that were patched up while Tian's one wedding banquet table cost more than 300,000 yuan."

Many people feel that Tian will ruin the image of Lei Feng.

Tian, a native of Shaanxi province, joined the national diving team in 1993 and went on to win gold in men's 10m platform event at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. He entered showbiz after retiring from sports in 2007.

(China Daily, April 1, 2009)