Actor Zhang Jinlai, or more well-known with his stage name of "Liu Xiao Ling Tong", has denied rumors that his performance was canceled at the Spring Festival gala staged by CCTV.

Instead, the actor confirmed through People's Daily that he was not invited by the gala's organizer at all.

The news has aroused huge discontent from Chinese netizens.

Many believe that Liu Xiao Ling Tong should be a must for the Spring Festival Gala, as 2016 was the Year of Monkey, according to the Chinese Zodiac sign.

Thirty years ago, Zhang brought the character of the Monkey King to life in the seminal TV series "Journey to the West".

His classic performance has made him the most recognized player of the imaginary figure ever since.

Comments on the situation have flooded the official Sina Weibo account of the gala organizers.

For himself, the actor says he is always ready to apear on the stage.