Chinese social media is buzzing over Zhao Liying’s unusually long absence from the spotlight over the past several months.

Recently, Zhao Liying has been surrounded by rumors claiming she reunited with Feng Shaofeng five years after their divorce. Some sources even alleged that the The Journey of Flower actress is secretly pregnant with their second child. After taking a closer look at Zhao Liying’s social media activity and work schedule, netizens noticed that she has been largely absent from the entertainment industry for nearly a year, ever since she wrapped filming for The Dream Maker in May 2025. On July 7, a social media account stirred controversy by claiming it had spotted Zhao Liying wearing a cap and face mask while visiting the obstetrics department of a hospital. In the photos shared online, the The Story of Minglan star appeared to have a noticeably rounded stomach. Shortly afterward, her assistant was reportedly seen carrying several baby shopping bags while pushing a stroller.

As speculation spread that Zhao Liying had stepped away from work because she was pregnant, her studio quickly denied the claims. Her representatives explained that the photo showing her seemingly pregnant belly was actually an old image taken during her first pregnancy several years ago, not a recent one. The studio also confirmed that Zhao Liying had indeed visited a hospital recently, but not the obstetrics department. Instead, she had gone for a follow-up examination related to a back injury. As for the baby items and stroller seen with her assistant, the agency clarified that they belonged to a friend of the assistant, who had simply been helping take care of the friend’s baby for a few hours.

According to industry insiders, Zhao Liying is currently taking a break from work to rest and recover from injuries sustained during previous filming projects. In addition to ongoing back and spinal issues, the actress reportedly suffered fluid buildup in her knee and a bone fracture while filming Article 20. Furthermore, her son is now seven years old, and Zhao Liying wants to spend more time supporting him after he entered elementary school, following years in which he primarily lived with Feng Shaofeng and his paternal grandparents.

Zhao Liying and Feng Shaofeng fell in love after working together on The Monkey King 3 and The Story of Minglan. Throughout 2017, the pair repeatedly denied dating rumors despite constant speculation. Then, in October 2018, the actress shocked fans by announcing that she had married Feng Shaofeng. The A-list couple welcomed their first son in March 2019. However, after only three years of marriage, Zhao Liying and Feng Shaofeng announced their divorce, surprising the public. Rumors surrounding the breakup included allegations that Feng Shaofeng had been unfaithful and that Zhao Liying was not accepted by her former in-laws because of her humble background and lack of a university degree. Among the actresses born in the post-1985 generation who have married, Zhao Liying has often been described as the most heartbreaking case, as she reportedly never had a wedding ceremony or even a wedding ring.

Feng Shaofeng took primary custody of their son. The boy, affectionately nicknamed Xiang Xiang, lives with his father and paternal grandparents in Shanghai. Zhao Liying has previously explained that she agreed to let Feng raise their son because his financial situation is more stable. Feng’s family is well known in China’s textile industry, and he is the sole heir to the family business.

Within the Chinese entertainment industry, Zhao Liying and Feng Shaofeng remain one of the few divorced celebrity couples who have maintained a positive relationship. The two continue to share parenting responsibilities, taking turns caring for their son whenever the other is busy filming.

Sources: K14