The 2025 Tencent Video Starlight Awards in China concluded recently, but one star has remained at the center of online discussions. Song Zu Er, affectionately known as China’s “National Little Sister,” faced criticism for her alleged rude behavior toward fellow celebrities during the ceremony.
According to reports from Sina, the controversy began when veteran actor Dan Jian Shu was delivering his acceptance speech. Cameras reportedly captured Song Zu Er displaying a dismissive expression toward him, which many viewers interpreted as disrespect.
The criticism extended to her interaction with actress Zhao Lu Si . Video footage showed Song Zu Er initially smiling as Zhao passed by, but shortly after, her expression reportedly turned sour, leading netizens to accuse her of throwing a hostile glance.
Social media reactions were swift and harsh, with many accusing the actress of lacking respect toward her peers. Some, however, defended her, suggesting that the expressions could be attributed to difficulty controlling facial emotions rather than actual disdain.
Song Zu Er rose to fame as a child actress, adored for her role in Prelude of Lotus Lantern, earning the endearing nickname “National Little Sister” in China. She continued to shine in projects such as The Prisoner of Beauty and The Demon Hunter’s Romance, but her career has been marked by multiple controversies.
In 2023, former company staff accused her of evading approximately 45 million CNY in taxes. She has also been linked to alleged involvement with underground financial activities.
Previously, Song Zu Er faced criticism for perceived ingratitude toward senior actress Xu Shuo, who had helped promote her early career. Additionally, publicized incidents of her appearing intoxicated in public, including stumbling and kicking bystanders, further fueled her negative image.
