Ziyu's Ordeal: A Spotlight on Bullying, Transparency, and the Need for Change in the Entertainment Industry
The recent controversy surrounding Chinese actor and singer Ziyu has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, highlighting a multitude of broader implications that warrant closer examination. Born Zheng Peng on July 6, 2002, Ziyu initially gained recognition from the survival show "Youth With You 3" in 2021, debuting as part of the group "Guanghe Shaonian." However, it's his personal narrative of overcoming adversity, coupled with his sudden surge in popularity following his role in the BL drama "Ni Ai," that has truly catapulted him into the spotlight.
20 July 2025
At the heart of the controversy lies a disturbing incident of bullying and assault by a fellow group member, Zheng Xingyuan, in December 2022, which left Ziyu with injuries. This incident not only exposes the dark underside of the entertainment industry, where power imbalances and lack of oversight can lead to severe mistreatment of artists, but also raises questions about company accountability and transparency. The company's initial denial of the incident and subsequent reluctance to provide evidence underscore a lack of transparency, underscoring the need for stronger regulatory frameworks and independent oversight to protect artists' rights.
Fan power and social media have played a crucial role in bringing Ziyu's story to public attention. The initial exposure of his injury came from fans, who continued to advocate for him, pressuring the company to take action. This demonstrates the increasing power of fan communities and social media as a platform for accountability, particularly in an era of rapid information dissemination. Ziyu's fans, known as YUNI, have been highly active and dedicated, breaking several records, including achieving a significant number of likes on his Weibo posts and supporting his projects.
The "black-red" phenomenon, where negative publicity can translate into short-term popularity and commercial gain, raises ethical questions about the industry's values. While it can lead to increased visibility and financial success, it potentially normalizes harmful behaviors and incentivizes scandalous narratives over genuine artistic merit. Ziyu's subsequent surge in popularity after his personal struggles were publicized exemplifies this phenomenon.
Furthermore, Ziyu's decision to "resolutely" terminate his contract despite potential repercussions highlights the growing demand for artist agency and better contractual terms within the industry. It can inspire other artists to stand up against exploitative practices, potentially leading to a re-evaluation of long-term, restrictive contracts.
The immense power of 'danmei' dramas in creating breakout stars is also evident in Ziyu's sudden rise to fame. The "natural star-making engine" of these dramas can quickly propel actors to phenomenal-level fame, blending fictional narratives with real-life struggles to create compelling fan engagement. This also indicates how specific genres can significantly influence audience perception and market demand.
Lastly, the physical injuries and emotional toll of bullying, coupled with the immense pressure of the entertainment industry, raise concerns about the mental and physical health of artists. This case could prompt further discussions about providing better support systems and protective measures for young artists.
In essence, the Ziyu incident serves as a microcosm reflecting broader systemic issues within the entertainment industry, from artist exploitation and lack of accountability to the complex interplay of fan culture, social media, and commercial interests. It highlights a critical need for industry reform to prioritize artist welfare, transparency, and ethical practices. As Ziyu continues to navigate the complexities of his newfound fame, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the need for change within the entertainment industry.
