Chinese actor Zhao Hongfei, once widely popular for his role as the young Fourth Prince Yinzhen in Secret History of the Crown Prince, has become the subject of shocking online rumors claiming he may have died after disappearing from the public eye for more than a decade — with even more disturbing speculation alleging his body was turned into a “human specimen” and put on display.

Zhao Hongfei, now 47 years old, gradually faded from the entertainment industry around 2010. His social media activity also came to a near-complete halt, with his Weibo account remaining inactive after 2017. Until recently, his prolonged absence was largely seen as a personal choice to step away from fame. That perception has now been shaken by viral claims circulating on Chinese social platforms.

A graduate of the Beijing Film Academy’s acting department, Zhao Hongfei appeared in numerous television dramas and films, including Cang Sang Pear Garden Love, Taizu Secret History, The Return of the Condor Heroes, and House of Flying Daggers. His refined appearance and elegant portrayal of historical characters quickly earned him widespread recognition.

However, his career took a hit in 2007 after Zhi Yin magazine published a long article under a pseudonym that appeared to allude to Zhao, accusing a male actor of abandoning a girlfriend who later suffered a tragic fate. Zhao Hongfei filed a defamation lawsuit and ultimately won, with the court ordering the magazine to pay compensation for emotional damages. Despite the legal victory, his popularity noticeably declined afterward.

In later years, Zhao Hongfei’s public presence became increasingly rare. His Weibo posts were sporadic and vague, with short updates such as “Yes… it’s me” and casual holiday greetings. After that, he vanished completely from online platforms.

In 2016, actress and close friend Chen Zihan publicly expressed concern, revealing that she had lost all contact with Zhao. “Zhao Hongfei, you’ve completely disappeared. I hope one day I can reach you again and ask: are you doing well?” she wrote, further fueling speculation about his whereabouts.

Recently, netizens claimed that a human specimen displayed at the so-called Museum of Human Mysteries — allegedly linked to Beijing’s 798 Art District — bears a striking resemblance to Zhao Hongfei. Some online users went as far as asserting that the long-missing actor had already passed away and that his remains were preserved for exhibition.

The claims spread rapidly, shocking fans and sparking outrage across social media.

Many fans expressed disbelief and grief, calling on relevant institutions to clarify the matter and debunk the rumors. However, as of now, no official confirmation has been issued by authorities, museums, or Zhao Hongfei’s family.

It is important to note that all claims regarding Zhao Hongfei’s alleged death and the “human specimen” exhibition remain unverified speculation. No credible evidence has been presented, and no official statements have confirmed his passing.

Despite the intense discussion online, Zhao Hongfei’s current status remains a mystery. Whether he chose a life away from the spotlight or something more tragic occurred is still unknown — leaving fans with more questions than answers.

Until verified information emerges, the shocking rumors surrounding Zhao Hongfei remain exactly that: rumors.

Sources: Yahoo News