The long-standing rivalry between Zhao Lusi and Esther Yu has once again taken center stage in Chinese entertainment, with a recent gala controversy igniting fresh speculation about their tense relationship.

According to Sina, the situation escalated after Zhao Lusi updated her profile picture on Xiaohongshu with the bold caption “Stop pretending”, followed by a post urging fans to check it out. The seemingly cryptic message quickly drew attention, as many netizens interpreted it as a direct jab at Esther Yu—her long-rumored industry rival.

The timing of Zhao Lusi’s post coincided with the announcement of a major Xiaohongshu gala event. Prior to the official guest list reveal, promotional hints described an invited star as the “Queen of Hit Dramas 2025,” referencing iconic lines from the character Xu Yan in Let Me Shine. Given the drama’s massive success and record-breaking viewership, fans were convinced Zhao Lusi would be the chosen guest.

However, expectations were overturned when the official lineup excluded Zhao Lusi entirely. Instead, Esther Yu was confirmed as a key participant, taking on the role of storyteller at the event. The unexpected switch was widely seen as a blow to Zhao Lusi’s pride, especially considering her strong influence and large fanbase on the Xiaohongshu platform, where she has actively engaged following her reduced presence on Weibo.

The incident further fueled discussions about the competitive dynamic between the two actresses, who are often compared as leading “post-95” stars in the industry. Their careers have closely mirrored each other, marked by alternating peaks and setbacks. In 2024, Esther Yu gained the upper hand when her drama Love Game in Eastern Fantasy outperformed Zhao Lusi’s The Legend of Jewelry. Zhao Lusi also faced health issues during that period, forcing her to temporarily halt activities.

By 2025, the balance shifted again as Zhao Lusi made a strong comeback with Let Me Shine, while Esther Yu’s Double Track received criticism and became entangled in controversies. The fluctuating fortunes of both stars have only intensified fan rivalry and public scrutiny.

Notably, this is not the first time the two actresses have been linked in indirect clashes. Zhao Lusi previously drew attention for seemingly criticizing a “backstabber” in the industry, with remarks about unfair competition and underhanded tactics. Shortly after, rumors targeting Zhao Lusi surfaced online, further escalating tensions between their respective fanbases.

While neither side has explicitly confirmed any direct conflict, the ongoing controversies of coincidences, cryptic posts, and overlapping career trajectories continues to blur the line between speculation and reality. As both actresses navigate the pressures of fame, their rivalry—real or perceived—remains one of the most talked-about storylines in C-ent today.

Sources: kenh14