The glamor of showbiz often hides a darker truth: Behind the spotlight, many of China’s top actresses suffer from serious physical and mental health problems. In recent months, several famous stars have reached a breaking point, causing widespread concern among fans and netizens alike. From exhaustion and illness to psychological distress, the toll of relentless work and industry expectations has never been more visible.
Dilraba Dilmurat
Fans were alarmed when it was reported that Dilraba Dilmurat, often called the “beauty of Xinjiang”, had fallen ill. The Long Ballad star has been ill for over two months with no clear signs of recovery. Despite his condition, he continued to appear on set to prepare for new projects.
Supporters say that since early September, Dilraba has shown flu-like symptoms, frequent dry coughs and visible tiredness. Notably, he recently canceled night filming for the first time in his career due to poor health. Known for having worked tirelessly for four years without stopping, fans are now urging her agency to prioritize her well-being, fearing a repeat of tragedies like those of Barbie Hsu or Zhu Yuanyuan.
Zhao Lusi
Another shocking case is that of Zhao Lusi, who secretly battled severe mental health problems for years, leading to physical collapse. Photos of her being transported to a hospital in a frail state went viral, topping social media search lists.
During recovery, Zhao had to relearn basic tasks such as walking and eating with a spoon. She took a year-long break to focus on her health and resolve disputes with her management. The Love Like the Galaxy star admitted she once believed youth was limitless, surviving on just two hours’ sleep while juggling filming and commercials. Only after becoming ill did she understand that health is the most precious asset in life.
Now fitter, Zhao has returned to public life, even celebrating her birthday with a concert and planning a return to the screen next year. However, fans remain concerned that his mental health is a persistent “time bomb” that requires ongoing support.
Bai Lu
In October 2025, actress Bai Lu shocked fans by revealing her worsening health. Since July he has suffered from chronic fatigue and severe headaches that radiate down his neck and spine. By August, his condition worsened to the point that he stopped all public appearances and filming.
In just two months, Bai Lu’s weight dropped from 48kg to 43kg, leaving her physically weak and emotionally drained. Despite visiting several medical departments, doctors were unable to determine the exact cause of his symptoms, labeling them a “difficult to diagnose condition”.
He is currently undergoing both Western and traditional Chinese treatments, including acupuncture. Although his condition has improved slightly, the uncertainty surrounding his illness leaves fans anxious and uncomfortable.
Xiao Yan Ni
The most critical case is that of the emerging actress Xiao Yan Ni. At the peak of her career, she collapsed due to sudden cardiac arrest brought on by overwork and rigorous fitness routines.
Although she was revived, Xiao entered a vegetative state. Miraculously, he regained consciousness after three months, although he was left with partial paralysis. With determination, he has since regained the ability to walk and perform basic tasks, although his left arm remains weak. Xiao is now focused on rehabilitation and dreams of returning to acting.
These cases highlight the dangerous behind-the-scenes realities of Chinese entertainment. According to 163.com, top stars often work around the clock, almost never resting. They fear taking breaks due to strong competition from both colleagues and emerging young people ready to replace them.
Year-round filming schedules, emotional strain and the constant pressure to maintain a slim figure through extreme diets have pushed many to the limit. This isn’t just a trend: it’s a looming crisis.
Without health, nothing else matters. Fans are calling for a cultural change in C‑entertainment, urging stars and agencies to adopt more sustainable working practices. They hope their favorite celebrities can find balance before it’s too late, because once health is lost, no amount of fame can bring it back.
