China’s entertainment industry shines brightly — but beneath the glamour lies a brutal system that has claimed the careers of many once-prominent actresses. Names like Xu Lu, Wang Likun, and Shu Chang were once seen as promising talents. Now, they serve as stark examples of how unforgiving the industry can be.
Forgotten Stars in the Shadows
Xu Lu debuted at just 14 in The Dream of Red Mansions, quickly rising to fame with Empresses in the Palace. Yet, despite early success, her career plateaued. While she appeared in several dramas such as The Longest Day in Chang’an and Love Scenery, her roles failed to make a lasting impact.
In a recent livestream, Xu Lu spoke candidly: “It’s not that I don’t want to act. But there are so many variables. Sometimes, effort just isn’t enough. You need luck too.” Her frustration reflects the harsh truth: talent alone no longer guarantees opportunities.
Wang Likun, once dubbed the “ancient costume goddess” thanks to role in Beauty’s Rival in Palace, faced even steeper challenges. Her career crumbled after her ex-husband Zhan Haoli was embroiled in a major fraud scandal in 2024. Accusations surfaced that she may have used his illicit funds — damaging her image irreparably.
Wang Likun has since pivoted to short-form dramas, recently starring in The Story of Ruo Xi. While it marks her return, many consider the move a downgrade for an actress once courted by major brands and producers.
Shu Chang, once a household name known for The Legend of Mermaid, also found herself sidelined. Faced with a lack of roles, she turned to livestream selling and eventually accepted lead roles in short dramas like Feng Qi Jin Zhao. She even slashed her daily fee to 20,000 RMB, eager to return to acting.
A Ruthless System
Their downfalls reflect a harsh reality: China’s entertainment world demands more than looks and talent. Stars must navigate tight government censorship, public scrutiny, and fluctuating audience preferences — all while maintaining a squeaky-clean image.
An article from Sina revealed that many producers self-censor by avoiding actors with any negative associations, fearing that approval for release may be delayed or denied. Thus, actresses with even indirect scandals — like Wang Likun — become liabilities.
Meanwhile, the rise of younger stars like Yang Zi, Zhao Lusi, Zhou Ye, Tian Xiwei, and Wen Qi has pushed veterans aside. Backed by strong fandoms and media presence, these fresh faces are favored for big-budget projects that prioritize hype and profit over experience.
A Race Against Time
Xu Lu’s candid remarks about luck and uncertainty highlight a painful truth: maintaining relevance is often out of one’s control. In China’s entertainment machine, even small stumbles can trigger irreversible decline.
For these actresses, the question is not about whether they were talented — but whether they had the right timing, alliances, and luck to endure. As censorship tightens and younger competitors rise, the spotlight grows ever narrower.
Their stories offer a cautionary tale in a world where stardom is fleeting, and resilience is not always enough.
Sources: Znews