Chinese actress Zhao Liying is making headlines after openly criticizing the media outlet Da Xiang News for publishing what she labeled as "fake news" about her upcoming film, which she did not consent to being interviewed for. Zhao's strong words have led to significant discussions online, particularly on social media platforms, where her rebuke quickly trended.
Zhao Liying's outburst followed a report from Da Xiang News, which suggested that she spoke about her character Gao Yuexiang in their article. The actress vehemently denied ever granting an interview to discuss the character, stating, "Fake news," when she reposted the article on her Weibo account.
This unexpected surge in a public relations crisis caught the attention of her fans and the media alike as Zhao's name rose to the top of trending topics.
In response to the uproar, director Han Xiaogang, who collaborated with Zhao on the film "To the Sun," issued a statement on March 21, 2025. He emphasized the importance of addressing the misunderstanding between Zhao Liying and the outlet, clarifying that the reported comments likely stemmed from promotional content released on March 19 by the film's production team, featuring input from other personnel involved in the film, rather than Zhao herself.
Han Xiaogang elaborated, saying, "The content from Zhao Liying's report stems from statements made by other behind-the-scenes staff in a production special published earlier, and the film's creators have not yet engaged in any media interviews." Thus, he has reached out to clarify things and resolve any confusion surrounding Zhao's comments. His willingness to mediate this issue helps to ease tensions around the actress's harsh remarks.
Zhao Liying's commitment to the film was evident, as she prioritized filming "To the Sun" by missing the renowned Hundred Flowers Awards. This absence illustrates the significance she places on this particular project and her dedication to delivering a strong performance.
Following Han's clarification, Zhao took to Weibo once more to communicate her thoughts, appreciating the work put into the film by the entire crew. She stated, "Every piece of work is the result of the team's blood, sweat, and tears. We welcome everyone to focus on the work itself, engaging in a rational discussion about what truly matters." This message reflects a desire not only to vindicate herself but also to approach the conversation surrounding the film with empathy and understanding.
As the public attention surrounding the film and the actress grows, the incident underscores the fragile relationship between celebrities and the media, particularly in a landscape where misinformation can spread rapidly. The ongoing interaction between Zhao Liying, Han Xiaogang, and the media highlights the importance of clear communication in artistic collaborations.
While Zhao Liying maintains a public persona of focus on her craft, this recent episode serves as a reminder about the challenges faced by public figures in navigating the intersections of personal statements and media representation. In light of her determined response to the situation, Zhao's remarks resonate with many in a time when truth in media remains paramount.
