Actress Wu Jinyan, known for her leading role in History of Yanxi Palaceshe once again became the center of social media rumors, not for a role, but for her remarkably fragile appearance. Despite making an impressive recovery after giving birth earlier this year, her drastically thin frame has sparked widespread concern among fans and netizens.
After announcing a surprise wedding to co-star Hong Yao and giving birth in February 2025, Wu returned to the spotlight in less than three months, impressing fans with her slim, pre-pregnancy figure. However, recent unpublished photos taken from airports and public events have painted a different picture. With prominent collarbones, sunken cheeks and a jawline described as “sharper than ever”, many online ask: “Is Wu Jinyan okay?”
Social media platforms, especially Weibo, exploded with hashtags such as “Wu Jinyan looks too thin again” and “Someone please save Wu Jinyan,” garnering over 16 million views in just a few days. In backstage images from his latest drama Rebirth: the gate opensher slim figure and deep facial wrinkles raised even more alarm, in stark contrast to her fuller appearance during the September filming of The mountains and rivers sing.
Netizens reacted with comments like:
- “She’s too thin now.”
- “Please eat more, health matters more than anything.”
- “His charm was in his wholesome glow, not this.”
Some photos also showed ribs visible through tight clothing, sparking speculation that Wu might weigh less than 35 kilograms. While some fans argue that her slimmer face flatters her features, the overriding sentiment is concern for her well-being.
Sources close to the production teams report that Wu Jinyan’s busy schedule is probably the main reason behind his weight loss. He resumed filming in April with Riddle of the royal courtfollowed by The mountains and rivers sing in July, then it started Rebirth: the gate opens in November. She’s ready to start another project, The Phoenix will not fallin the month of December.
In addition to work pressure, Wu’s early training in dance may have contributed to a lifelong habit of strict weight control. She was reportedly subjected to weekly weights during training, with penalties if her weight exceeded 45kg. Her diet reportedly eschews meat and sugary drinks, favoring mineral water and calorie counting, mirroring the harsh beauty standards prevalent in historical costume dramas.
While some fans praise her discipline and ethereal looks, many worry that the pressure to maintain a “paper-thin” figure is taking its toll. Medical professionals warn that rapid weight loss after giving birth can lead to hormonal imbalance and long-term health problems. Her studio has yet to respond, but fan communities urge the actress to rest, eat well and prioritize her health over aesthetics.
Wu Jinyan’s situation highlights a larger problem facing actresses, especially mothers, in China’s entertainment industry: balancing relentless working hours with the relentless pressure to maintain a flawless appearance.
While the trend of her body image is being discussed on Chinese social media platforms, one thing is clear: fans want more than just beauty and success: they want to see Wu Jinyan thriving in good health.
