Wang Ziyi, born in 1996 and former member of the popular Chinese boy group NINE PERCENT, recently spoke candidly about his mental health journey during an appearance on a variety show.
After debuting through the 2018 survival show Idol Producer, Wang Ziyi enjoyed rapid success with NINE PERCENT. Following the group’s disbandment, he pursued acting projects and solo music activities. However, in 2021, he became embroiled in a legal dispute with his management company, Simply Joy Music, which contributed to a period of withdrawal from public life.
During the show, Wang Ziyi addressed why he had been largely absent from media and social appearances.
He shared heartfelt insights into the psychological strain and emotional pain that led him to temporarily step back to heal: “When I first debuted, I really wanted to have a signature work. I worked so hard to achieve it. But then I realized how painful it was. I had high expectations thinking that as long as I sacrificed and worked hard, I would reach my goals but it just didn’t happen. I focused too much on results and ended up hurting myself. I realized I was diving into work without finding any joy.
He added, “I became someone I didn’t like, even hating my job. I needed to ‘lock’ myself away and take a break because my mental state wasn’t healthy.”
Wang Ziyi also revealed advice from his doctor: “ The doctor said I needed to ‘nurture’ myself like a damaged tree, letting it heal naturally. Using medication would only create dependence. This is something only I can adjust for myself; family or outsiders can’t fix it.”
This candid reflection highlights the often unseen pressures faced by idols and entertainers, and Wang Ziyi’s journey serves as an important reminder of the need for mental health care in the entertainment industry.
Sources: Weibo