The list of the highest-paid Chinese actresses of 2025 has just been revealed, and it’s sparking plenty of discussion online. While Chinese entertainment is notoriously competitive, reaching A-list status means paychecks that can leave the public stunned. According to Tonboriday, here are the top six female stars with the highest earnings this year—and surprisingly, Dilraba Dilmurat only lands at the bottom.
6. Dilraba Dilmurat
With her stunning visuals and massive fanbase, Dilraba Dilmurat has long been one of the most in-demand faces in dramas and advertising. However, in terms of acting fees, she ranks last on this list, reportedly earning about 149,000 USD per project. Known for works like Eternal Love and The Long Ballad, her acting still stirs debate, but her overwhelming commercial influence ensures brands continue to flock to her, solidifying her position as one of the top traffic queens in C-ent.
5. Yang Mi
As Dilraba’s senior in the same agency, Yang Mi has maintained steady popularity for years. She boasts a string of hit dramas, including Palace, Eternal Love, Fox Spirit Matchmaker: Red-Moon Pact, and most recently, This Thriving Land. With an acting fee of around 180,000 USD per project, Yang Mi proves that her star power hasn’t faded despite personal ups and downs. Beyond acting, she’s also a successful producer, further cementing her image as an all-around powerhouse in Chinese entertainment.
4. Sun Li
When it comes to powerhouse acting in Chinese dramas, Sun Li is an undeniable name. Her career-defining works include The Legend of Zhen Huan, Empresses in the Palace, and The Legend of Mi Yue. With her sharp acting skills and refined portrayals, she has become a true “ratings guarantee” in C-dramas. Sun Li commands a staggering 400,000 USD per project. Unlike traffic-driven “little flowers,” she is highly respected as a true actress with both talent and beauty.
3. Zhao Liying
From humble beginnings in rural China, Zhao Liying rose to become one of the most admired actresses in the industry. Her iconic dramas include Boss & Me, The Journey of Flower, The Story of Minglan, and The Story of Xingfu. She is beloved for her hardworking, down-to-earth image and her ever-improving acting skills. With a fee of 533,000 USD per project, Zhao Liying has firmly secured her place among the top actresses in C-entertainment.
2. Zhou Xun
Dubbed the “national treasure of acting,” Zhou Xun is not just a Chinese star but also an internationally recognized actress. With her timeless beauty and delicate performances, Zhou Xun stands as a true artist rather than just a commercial celebrity. Earning 631,000 USD per project, her pay is fitting for her unmatched reputation, especially in serious dramas and period pieces that require refined acting.
1. Zhou Dongyu
Taking the crown this year is Zhou Dongyu, with an astounding fee of 666,000 USD per film. While the figure shocked many, it makes sense—film projects often hold higher prestige than television dramas. Known as the youngest “Triple Best Actress” in Chinese cinema, Zhou Dongyu has claimed the top acting awards at the Golden Rooster, Hong Kong Film Awards, and Golden Horse. Films like Better Days and Under the Hawthorn Tree showcase her outstanding talent. Not only is she the “box office queen,” but she also proves that true acting skills can dominate both critical acclaim and commercial success.
Sources: kenh14
You must be logged in to post a comment.