One of China’s most sought-after actresses has drawn widespread attention after reportedly spending a hefty sum to reward her staff with lavish year-end bonuses. The star in question is Meng Ziyi, who has rapidly risen to A-list status following the success of her 2024 historical drama Blossom.

After enjoying a major career breakthrough, Meng Ziyi has decided to generously give back to the team that supported her behind the scenes for years. According to reports, the actress purchased electric cars worth around 70,000 yuan each (approximately USD 10,000) to gift her manager and outstanding staff members as Lunar New Year bonuses. In addition, she handed out thousands of yuan in cash bonuses.

For staff members who chose not to return home for the holidays and instead accompanied her on filming schedules, Meng Ziyi reportedly provided extra cash incentives and special benefits. On social media, she has been widely praised for her generosity, especially at a time when China’s entertainment industry is facing economic challenges and many actresses are experiencing significant pay cuts.

Born in 1995, Meng Ziyi is a graduate of the Beijing Film Academy, where she once earned the title of campus beauty among hundreds of aspiring actresses. She first gained widespread recognition in 2019 through The Untamed, where she played Wen Qing. Although she often took supporting roles in subsequent projects such as The Legend of the Condor Heroes, Ever Night, Heroes, and Immortal Samsara, her natural acting and striking visuals frequently stole the spotlight even overshadowing lead actresses.

In a past interview, Meng Ziyi revealed that she was once rejected from a production for being “too beautiful.” She candidly questioned the logic behind such criticism, saying that while she could accept comments about her experience or fame level, being turned away for her looks felt deeply unfair. “Every actress in the industry is attractive,” she said, expressing confusion over why beauty could be treated as a flaw.

In 2024, Meng Ziyi was also vindicated in a long-standing controversy dating back to 2014, when she was just 19 years old. During a variety show appearance with Ma Tianyu, she was unfairly blamed after he arrived late and ultimately failed to appear. Due to editing choices by the production team, she was portrayed as unprofessional, leading to years of public backlash and harsh criticism. When the truth finally emerged, public opinion shifted, with many expressing sympathy for the decade-long misunderstanding she endured.

Now enjoying both professional success and renewed public support, Meng Ziyi’s generous gestures toward her staff have further strengthened her reputation not just as a top-tier actress, but as a star who values loyalty and gratitude behind the spotlight.

Sources: K14