Once beloved as “Xiao Yanzi” in the iconic drama My Fair Princess, Chinese actress Zhao Wei has endured a dramatic fall from grace. Once hailed as one of China’s most adored stars, her legacy has been tainted by scandal and legal woes—until now.
Zhao Wei’s downfall began in 2017, when she and her then-husband Huang You Long were accused of stock market manipulation and providing misleading financial information. The couple faced over 500 civil lawsuits and were ordered to pay 57.7 million CNY in damages. The scandal transformed Zhao from a beloved “Xiao Yanzi” to a symbol of financial deception.
Then in 2021, Zhao was abruptly “erased” from the entertainment industry. Without any public explanation, her name and works vanished from streaming platforms. While no official charges were disclosed, the internet exploded with shocking rumors—ranging from abuse and assault to involvement in transnational criminal networks. Though unproven, the rumors dealt a heavy blow to her already fragile reputation.
With frozen assets and mounting debt—reportedly unable to even repay a 14,000 CNY loan—Zhao’s image sank to rock bottom. Recent paparazzi photos showing her dining at a street stall with a swollen face sparked both concern and pity from the public.
Yet, in an unexpected turn, her 15-year-old daughter Huang Xin has captured the public’s admiration. Spotted traveling with her mother at an airport, Huang Xin impressed netizens with her 1.7-meter height, elegant presence, and graceful manners—standing quite literally and symbolically above her embattled mother.
“Zhao Wei raised her daughter well,” one comment read. “A mother’s love and effort truly shine through her child.”
Much of Huang Xin’s poise, however, is attributed to her father Huang You Long. Known for sparing no expense on her upbringing, he reportedly invested over 1 million CNY annually on her education and extracurriculars. From piano and ballet to horse riding, Huang Xin was groomed to excel. When she began studying in Hong Kong, Huang You Long even bought three luxury villas to ensure her comfort.
Currently enrolled at a prestigious boarding school in Switzerland—the same institution attended by superstar Faye Wong’s daughter—Huang Xin is seen as a product of elite grooming and opportunity. As she matures into a well-rounded young woman, many believe she is unintentionally mending Zhao Wei’s damaged public image.
Despite their divorce in late 2024 and Zhao’s public distancing from Huang You Long, many speculate that she is now benefiting from the legacy he helped build through their daughter. While this might raise eyebrows, others argue that children should never be caught in adult conflicts.
In a culture quick to condemn, Huang Xin may be offering Zhao Wei something the star had all but lost—redemption in the eyes of the public.