The topic “What’s going on with Zhang Ziyi’s face?” ranked No. 2 on Weibo’s trending list on March 20, drawing over half a million views and comments.
Appearing on the red carpet at the China CMG Film Awards, Zhang Ziyi wore a red gown with elaborate makeup and her hair styled in an elegant updo. However, what caught the public’s attention was her noticeably fuller and rounder facial features. Questions like “What happened to her face?” quickly flooded social media, accompanied by countless speculations.
Earlier, at an event, Zhang Ziyi had already sparked discussion. Many noted that her cheeks appeared fuller, her jawline less defined, and her overall face looked “puffier” and “swollen.” Some even commented that her expressions and facial contours resembled those of celebrities who had undergone cosmetic procedures.
Rumors began circulating that the actress had gained around 9 kilograms for a new role scheduled to begin filming in April. Still, many remained skeptical, asking, “Did she gain weight or is it a botched cosmetic procedure?” and “She looks so different—her left side even seems stiff.” Others speculated that the stiffness and swelling might be due to fillers or lifting treatments.
Defending Zhang Ziyi, some netizens argued that the public holds actresses to double standards.
“If she allowed wrinkles to show and her skin to sag naturally, people would criticize her for ‘losing her beauty’ or ‘aging poorly.’ Instead of judging, we should recognize that maintaining a good appearance on camera is part of their professionalism. At 47, as a mother of two, walking confidently on the red carpet is proof of her discipline,” one commenter said.
Another added, “Using fillers, skincare, exercising, and strict dieting are nothing to be ashamed of—they reflect the dedication of a top actress.”
Zhang Ziyi, born in 1979, began acting in 1996 and rose to fame with The Road Home (1999) directed by Zhang Yimou. She has also starred in films such as House of Flying Daggers and Hero, as well as Hollywood productions including Memoirs of a Geisha and Rush Hour 2. She married Chinese singer Wang Feng in 2015, but the couple announced their divorce on October 23, 2023. They have two children together.
Sources: Ngoisao