Wang Yi Lei is drawing criticism after several industry professionals publicly accused him of causing production disruptions and repeatedly exiting drama projects at the last minute.

The actor, who debuted in 2023, quickly gained attention through leading roles in numerous Chinese dramas, including “Embrace You Through The Ashes.” However, recent allegations from production teams and directors have sparked renewed scrutiny over his reputation behind the scenes.

The controversy intensified after the team behind the vertical drama “Kill That Spring Night” released an official statement explaining why Wang was suddenly replaced by actor Yi Hang shortly before filming began.

According to the production staff, preparations for filming had already been finalized, with cast members and crew arriving in Hengdian, China, while expenses related to sets, scheduling, and production had already been paid. The team claimed issues only surfaced hours before Wang was expected to depart for filming.

Producers stated that Wang had received the first portion of the script in late April and that revisions continued afterward. Although the staff admitted the screenplay still required adjustments, they alleged they consistently revised scenes according to Wang’s requests and feedback.

Despite originally being scheduled to travel on May 10, Wang’s agency reportedly reopened discussions about additional script changes just hours before departure and later informed the production team that the actor would not board the flight.

The crew further alleged that Wang refused to proceed with filming unless further modifications were made, even though the lead actress and technical staff were already waiting on set. Communication reportedly became increasingly difficult later that evening after Wang’s side cited health concerns and became unreachable. The production eventually spent the night searching for a replacement before confirming Yi Hang as the new lead actor.

Wang later addressed the situation during a livestream, revealing that he had decided to step away from the entertainment industry indefinitely due to deteriorating physical and mental health. He shared that he was diagnosed with depression in September 2025 and admitted that criticism regarding his professionalism was “partially justified.” He also apologized to the cast and crew while explaining that ongoing disagreements over scripts had worsened his condition.

However, the livestream did little to calm public discussion. Online users began circulating lists of projects Wang allegedly left before filming officially started, including “Through The Mist,” “Mint Night,” “You Are My Little Happiness,” “Kill That Spring Night,” and “Seizing Your Heart.”

Additional attention was drawn after the director of “Through The Mist” discussed Wang during another livestream. The director alleged that the actor withdrew from the drama following disagreements over casting decisions and script-related matters.

According to the director, Wang had allegedly pushed for certain actresses to be cast opposite him. After one actress reportedly turned down the role, Wang was allegedly dissatisfied with the replacement choice. The director further claimed Wang completed costume fittings and makeup tests before later exiting the project, citing a neck injury that may not have been severe enough to fully stop production.

The director also hinted at disputes involving advance payments connected to the project, further fueling criticism surrounding the actor’s professional conduct.

Meanwhile, production for “Kill That Spring Night” is continuing with Yi Hang taking over the lead role, while Wang Yi Lei remains on hiatus without any confirmed plans for a return to the entertainment industry.

Sources: Koreaboo