Chinese Actress Zhao Lusi Sparks Debate on Celebrity Endorsements and Artist Autonomy
In a recent turn of events, Chinese actress Zhao Lusi has sparked a heated debate on social media platform Weibo after telling businesses to stop looking for her for live-streaming e-commerce collaborations. The actress, known for her challenging journey to stardom, has expressed feelings of anxiety and depression following a public dispute with her agency, Yinhe Kuyue Media.
6 August 2025
Zhao Lusi's statement, which came during a livestream, emphasized that her online appearances are purely for sharing and recommending products she genuinely likes, rather than for selling. She also highlighted that her agency requires her to share revenue from live-streaming sales, which is a common practice in the entertainment industry.
The public reaction to Zhao Lusi's announcement has been mixed, with some fans expressing support and understanding for her decision, while others question her intentions. Some Weibo users have praised her for taking a stand, acknowledging her difficult journey and hard work, and hoping that she can have a smoother road ahead. Others have criticized her, suggesting that she is more suited to being an internet celebrity and that her agency has invested significant efforts in making her famous.
Despite the backlash, Zhao Lusi's fans have shown their loyalty by purchasing products she recommends, even though she doesn't sell them directly. This outpouring of support has led to some commentators noting the level of influence she holds, with one user stating, "Saying that Zhao Lusi tells businesses not to find her again, ultimately it's because she's too popular, isn't this influence?"
The implications of Zhao Lusi's decision extend beyond her personal circumstances, reflecting broader shifts in the entertainment industry regarding celebrity branding, artist autonomy, and consumer expectations for authenticity. By prioritizing genuine product recommendations over lucrative endorsements, Zhao Lusi signals a potential move towards more selective and authentic celebrity endorsements.
This stance also highlights the tension between artist autonomy and management company expectations, sparking discussions about fair compensation models for artists and encouraging them to negotiate more favorable terms in their contracts. Moreover, by rejecting widespread commercial engagements, Zhao Lusi emphasizes her dedication to her primary profession as an actress, setting a precedent for other young artists to prioritize skill development and artistic integrity over quick commercial gains.
For consumers, Zhao Lusi's move can resonate positively, particularly in an era of increasing skepticism towards advertising and online influencers. Her commitment to honesty and authenticity can build greater trust with her fanbase and influence consumer behavior, making them more discerning about celebrity-promoted products.
Ultimately, Zhao Lusi's decision reflects a subtle critique of the pervasive commercialization within the entertainment industry and society at large, highlighting the often overwhelming pressure on public figures to monetize their influence. As the entertainment industry and society continue to evolve, Zhao Lusi's stance may contribute to a more nuanced discussion about the role of celebrity endorsements, artist autonomy, and consumer protection in the digital age.
