The most anticipated entertainment event on January 25 is Zhao Lusi’s return to the spotlight after a month-long hiatus due to severe illness. In particular, the actress held a meet-and-greet with 100 fans.
According to Sina, Zhao Lusi cannot stand for long periods and needs crutches for support at this event. Even when standing on stage for an extended time, she initially managed to stand on her own but later had to lean on her crutch.
During the event, Zhao Lusi also showed signs of her unstable health. The actress caught a cold and had to pause to grab tissues to wipe her nose. It’s evident that after collapsing on set, her immune system remains weak. Furthermore, through unfiltered clips and photos, Zhao Lusi’s thin figure and frail legs, appearing almost skin and bones, were visibly apparent, causing fans to feel concerned.
At the event, Zhao Lusi also opened up about her medical treatment and the challenges she faced. She revealed that she had previously lost her ability to speak and walk. During that time, Zhao Lusi’s family prepared for all possible scenarios, including the worst-case scenario of her having to retire. She and her family also considered how the public might react to her revealing her illness and the difficulties she was going through. In fact, when Zhao Lusi disclosed that she was battling depression and mental health issues, many people did not sympathize with her.
Additionally, Zhao Lusi’s family prepared funds to compensate for penalties in case contracts with her management company or partners were breached. Currently, Zhao Lusi represents 26 brands and has to continuously film commercials and take photos to fulfill her commitments. She also has a long-term management contract her agency, which may lead to a hefty penalty fee.
According to Zhao Lusi, fortunately, her colleagues have been understanding of her situation. The production team of “Almost Lover”, the film she was in the middle of shooting, has not demanded compensation for losses.
Meanwhile, QQ reported that to express her gratitude for fans’ unwavering support, Zhao Lusi generously spent 60,000 yuan (approx 8,830 USD) to treat the 100 fans attending her commercial event to a lavish dinner at a high-end restaurant.
Fans attending Zhao Lusi’s comeback event enthusiastically shared photos of the luxurious banquet featuring shrimp, crab, seafood and premium beef. Many remarked that meeting their idol felt more like attending a wedding feast. On social media, this grand gesture quickly became a trending topic, climbing into the top 3 of Weibo’s hot search and amassing over 1 million views. Netizens were impressed by Zhao Lusi’s extravagant and heartfelt display of appreciation for her fans.
In an interview with the Global Times on January 24, Zhao Lusi shared an update on her health, stating that she has returned to her normal daily routines. However, her treatment process will need to continue for another 3~4 months. The actress revealed that she is currently on medication to regulate her hormone levels after experiencing symptoms such as loss of appetite, severe physical & mental exhaustion and weakness. Besides taking medication, Zhao Lusi has also been advised to participate in charitable activities and engage with the community to aid her recovery.
While many congratulated Zhao Lusi on her recovery, others expressed concern that she might be returning to work too soon. Some believe her management company may have pressured her to resume her schedule, as the demanding and competitive nature of the entertainment industry left her with only one month of rest instead of the recommended 3~4 months.
Zhao Lusi has been battling psychological issues since 2019. She has shared that she suffers from depression caused by a traumatic childhood marked by school bullying from teachers, physical abuse from higher-ups in her management company, extortion from her personal manager, the loss of loved ones, public scrutiny and a grueling work schedule. These factors have taken a toll on both her physical and mental health. Despite years of struggling with depression, Zhao Lusi hesitated to speak out for fear of being accused of using her illness for attention. She endured silently until the final month of 2024 when she could no longer hold on and was forced to take a break.