According to Sina, the short drama Jin Xiu An Ran, starring veteran actress Liu Xiaoqing, recently unveiled its first official poster. The image shows Liu Xiaoqing embracing her male co-star Jin Jia, with both her gaze and facial expression conveying deep infatuation and emotional attachment. However, the poster immediately ignited controversy, as Jin Jia is reportedly 30 years younger than Liu Xiaoqing.

In the drama, Liu Xiaoqing plays a young maiden experiencing her first love. Adding to the shock, the actress playing the Empress Dowager—who is supposed to be the grandmother of the female lead—is said to be 12 years younger than Liu Xiaoqing herself. This casting choice triggered a flood of criticism on Chinese social media platforms, particularly Weibo, where posts condemning the actress quickly spread.

Many netizens did not hold back in their reactions, questioning the repeated casting of Liu Xiaoqing in roles far younger than her real age. Some comments accused her of lacking self-awareness, while others argued that such shock-value casting was merely a tactic to draw attention in the short-drama market. Harsh remarks claimed that these roles were damaging her legacy and alienating audiences who once admired her iconic performances.

At the same time, a number of supporters defended Liu Xiaoqing, arguing that she looks significantly younger than her age and praising her passion for continuing to work in the entertainment industry. They see her career choices as a challenge to age discrimination and rigid casting norms.

This is not the first time Liu Xiaoqing has faced criticism over age-gap roles. In the short drama Meng Bao Zhu Gong: Wu Shi Sui Hun Chong, she portrayed a romantic relationship with a much younger actor, Geng Dayong, who was 37 at the time. Back in 2014, she also sparked heated debate by playing a 16-year-old girl named Ouyang Feiyan in Heroes of Sui and Tang Dynasties 3, despite being over 60 years old. While her youthful appearance was acknowledged, many viewers felt her exaggerated portrayal of teenage innocence crossed a line.

Most recently, on January 20, Liu Xiaoqing began filming another short drama, The Legend of Wu Zetian, in which she is set to portray Wu Meiniang from the age of 16 all the way to 86. Once again, controversy erupted, as Liu Xiaoqing is now 75 years old. Although she maintains a youthful look, many viewers argue that she can no longer convincingly embody a teenage character.

Critics say the actress appears overly determined to cling to her past glory, suggesting that she would receive far more public support if she focused on portraying Wu Zetian during her middle-aged and later years instead. Online reactions have ranged from disappointment to outright frustration, with some viewers urging her to accept age-appropriate roles rather than continuing what they see as forced, unrealistic casting choices.

Sources: K14