In the early hours of April 2, 2026, Chinese social media was abuzz with photos of Li Yitong appearing at a hospital emergency department in alarming condition. Dressed in her familiar purple bunny pajamas, the actress looked completely different from her usual radiant self. She appeared so weak that she could barely stand, walking unsteadily and relying heavily on her assistant and staff for support. Witnesses reported that she struggled even to lift her head, her pale face clearly showing exhaustion after long days on set.
Shortly after, her studio confirmed her deteriorating health following work and announced that all filming schedules for the day had been urgently canceled so she could rest. However, this is not the first time concerns about her health have been raised. In less than two months, she has faced multiple serious issues—from suffering an acute allergic reaction after filming in artificial rain for two continuous hours in late March, to aggravating a lumbar spine injury that made movement extremely difficult. Despite this, she continued to push through her schedule, even joking about her swollen eyes during a livestream to reassure fans.
This incident has reignited intense debate over the harsh working conditions on the historical drama The Noble, where Li Yitong is currently filming. The production is known for frequent overnight shoots and extreme pressure, leaving not only actors but also crew members exhausted. More concerning, in order to achieve a certain “ethereal” on-screen image, Li Yitong has reportedly maintained an extremely underweight physique. At 165 cm tall and just 42 kg, her body weight falls about 7 kg below the healthy minimum. Combined with strict dieting and a demanding filming schedule, this has dealt a severe blow to her immune system.
The public has expressed growing concern, realizing that behind her dedication lies a dangerous level of physical sacrifice, where the line between artistic passion and self-harm is becoming increasingly blurred.
Fans’ worries are heightened by the fact that The Noble is one of the most anticipated upcoming dramas. From its first day of filming, it topped pre-release buzz rankings, surpassing many major competitors. Li Yitong’s character, Chen Que’er, alone accounts for 58% of total discussion, far exceeding the 35% of male lead Lu Xingzhi, played by Chen Xingxu, highlighting her overwhelming influence in the project.
The drama follows the journey of a low-born girl during the Northern Song Dynasty who assumes the identity of a noble princess to change her fate. Rising from a powerless position within a web of political intrigue, she gradually grows stronger, engages in battles of wit with aristocrats, and fights to survive under harsh conditions. This “defying fate” narrative adds emotional depth but also places heavy physical and psychological demands on the role.
As the drama continues to gain attention even before its release, the conversation is no longer just about its success, but also about the limits of an artist’s dedication. Behind polished visuals and gripping storytelling often lies a significant cost to health—something audiences are increasingly unwilling to ignore.
Sources: kenh14
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