In an unexpected move that’s dominating Chinese entertainment chatter on 28 January 2026, Chinese actress Zhao Lusi stunned fans after being spotted running a humble food stall at a night market in Hainan, China earlier this week. Videos circulating online show the 27-year-old star cooking and serving egg pancakes, chatting warmly with customers, and even posing for selfies — all without glam makeup or entourage, sparking a viral reaction online.
Zhao later confirmed in a livestream that this was a personal dream and not a publicity stunt — she had once mentioned wanting to run her own small business and decided to give it a real try. “I’m just experiencing life in the most beautiful and warm-hearted way,” she told followers.
But there’s a deeper layer to this story. Fans have pointed out that Zhao has kept a low profile after going public in 2025 about her struggles with depression, health issues and a bitter dispute with her former management agency — including claims of mistreatment and financial disagreements.
Some social media users are celebrating her relatability and courage for stepping out of the usual celebrity bubble, while others speculate whether this “market stall moment” is a sign that Zhao might be rethinking her future in mainstream showbiz altogether. The mixed reactions show just how much sway Chinese netizens still have over a star’s public image — even long after controversies.
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