Once considered among the top beauty icons and leading “post-85” actresses in C-ent, Angelababy’s golden era effectively ended in September 2023. After attending a 19+ performance by BLACKPINK’s Lisa at the Crazy Horse Paris, she was reportedly subjected to an unofficial six-month industry ban. The incident caused her to lose numerous endorsement deals, TV appearances, and film projects.

Following the end of that period, Angelababy attempted to resume her career. However, she has struggled to regain her footing, facing a cold reception from the industry. Two years after her return, her career remains stagnant, with no signs of recovery in fact, it appears to be declining further.

With limited opportunities in film and television, the actress has turned to more accessible jobs to maintain her income and visibility. On March 26, she livestreamed to sell low-priced cosmetics, ranging from just a few dozen to several hundred yuan. Earlier this year, she also promoted budget-friendly sportswear through livestreaming.

According to close acquaintances, Angelababy no longer has the wide range of opportunities she once enjoyed. Mainland producers are reportedly reluctant to cast her due to criticism of her acting skills, past controversies, and lack of strong industry backing. Facing dwindling prospects, she returned to Hong Kong in search of new opportunities, but the situation has not improved significantly. At one point, she even lowered her acting fees substantially, yet still failed to secure roles.

In order to find work, Angelababy has abandoned her once-selective approach. She now participates in online sales, promotes street food businesses, and personally attends auditions and interviews like lesser-known actors. She also reportedly covers her own travel and accommodation expenses when attending commercial events perks that were once standard for a star of her caliber.

Her prolonged lack of work has also led to a more frugal lifestyle. Recently, she has frequently been spotted dining at roadside eateries and going out without the security entourage she once had.

Chinese media suggest that with most of her current engagements being small-scale and lacking major media exposure, it will be difficult for her to reverse the situation. Once a top-tier celebrity, Angelababy has now lost her standing in the industry descending to a point where she promotes budget products and street-side businesses, something rarely seen among former A-list stars.

Sources: K14