The death of actor Yu Menglong has reignited suspicions about “hidden forces” within China’s entertainment industry. His passing marks the third time in recent years that the untimely death of a young celebrity has been linked to such speculation.

On September 11, costume drama star Yu Menglong was confirmed dead after falling from a building in Beijing. Authorities ruled out foul play, but many netizens doubt the conclusion, pointing to strange details and rumors that Yu had long been blacklisted for refusing to comply with the industry’s “hidden rules.” Reports suggest his career was stalled for three years after rejecting advances from a powerful figure. Bloggers even claim that on the night of his death, he was drugged, assaulted, and pushed to his death, though none of these claims have been verified.

The Nude Death of “Little Angelababy” Ren Jiao

In October 2017, actress Ren Jiao dubbed “Little Angelababy” due to her similar features was found dead at just 24 after falling from the 13th floor of a hotel in Suzhou. Her body, discovered naked in bushes, fueled widespread suspicion. Hotel CCTV showed her checking in with actor Yang Xuwen, who was later cleared after questioning. While police concluded it was suicide linked to heavy drinking, lawyers and the public questioned inconsistencies: her body showed little trauma despite a high fall, and her posture appeared unnatural for a fall victim. Unverified rumors later implicated powerful entertainment executives, but no evidence was ever released, and the case was quickly closed.

Qiao Renliang’s Shocking Suicide in 2016

In September 2016, popular actor Qiao Renliang famous for dramas like Legend of Lu Zhen and Stay With Me—was found dead at home at age 28. Police confirmed he suffocated using a plastic bag. While official reports suggested depression, online speculation claimed he had been humiliated by powerful figures, including tycoon Wang Sicong, and subjected to abuse by director Wang Ziyuan. Again, no formal evidence supported these claims, leaving questions surrounding his death unanswered.

A Pattern of Unsettling Losses

Although police officially dismissed criminal elements in all three cases, many in the public remain unconvinced. The similarities young stars at career peaks, sudden deaths under murky circumstances, and rapid closures of investigations have only fueled speculation. Netizens lament that these artists, remembered for their talent, may have fallen victim to pressures and hidden power struggles within the industry.

Sources: K14