An event featuring Chinese actor Zhang Linghe was suddenly canceled after fans reportedly broke the glass entrance doors of a shopping mall while trying to enter the venue.
According to Chinese media reports, Zhang Linghe was expected to attend an eyewear brand event at a shopping mall in Nanning, Guangxi, on May 31. However, before the event could begin, huge numbers of fans gathered at the venue, resulting in severe overcrowding.
As the crowd rushed forward, the mall’s glass entrance doors shattered. The accident resulted in five people suffering minor injuries.
Following the accident, the organizers immediately canceled the event. Zhang Linghe’s management company later announced that compensation would be provided to the participants, including reimbursement of travel and hotel expenses. Fans who had traveled for the event were asked to provide their personal information to the agency, with the refund process expected to begin on June 3 and conclude by mid-June.
“Safety is always our top priority,” the agency said. “This was Zhang Linghe’s first work program in Nanning. Fans from many different cities came here excited to meet him. We sincerely apologize for the accident and for disappointing everyone present.”
Industry observers estimate that Zhang Linghe’s team could face significant financial losses due to the compensation plan. However, both the actor and his agency received praise from many Chinese netizens for taking responsibility and offering support to affected fans.
Zhang Linghe has become one of the most prominent young actors in the Chinese entertainment industry in recent years. Since making her debut in 2020, she has quickly gained popularity due to her striking looks, impressive height, and suitability for leading roles in romantic novels and historical dramas.
The actor has appeared in successful projects including Love Between Fairy and Devil, My Journey to You and Story of Kunning Palace, while also becoming a sought-after ambassador for numerous major brands.
Earlier this year, Zhang Linghe attracted a lot of attention with the drama Pursuit of Jade, which became an unexpected hit. However, the actor also faced criticism from some viewers who claimed that his performance deviated from the character’s original image.
In particular, his style in the drama has become the subject of ridicule online. Critics said the heavy makeup, bright red lipstick, dramatic eyeliner and thick foundation seemed excessive and did not fit the image of a battle-hardened general.
Zhang Linghe was also embroiled in controversy over comments that some netizens interpreted as insensitive towards the appearance of Southeast Asians.
More recently, Chinese social media users conducted a survey ranking the ten worst actors born after 1995 based on acting skills. Zhang Linghe ultimately tops the list, earning the unwanted distinction of ranking first in the poll.
Despite criticism and controversy, Zhang Linghe remains one of the most talked about young stars in Chinese entertainment. The overwhelming turnout at the Nanning event serves as a reminder of both its immense popularity and the challenges that can arise when fan enthusiasm exceeds safe limits.
Sources: X
