Zhao Lusi Unrecognisable at Hainan Night Market: Has the Chinese Superstar Gone Broke and Running a Food Stall?

Zhao Lusi is one of the major actresses in China, but her career stalled last year after she accused her management agency, Yinhekuyu Media or Galaxy Cool Entertainment, of severe mistreatment, harassment, and financial exploitation. She alleged the company threatened her career and controlled her studio, causing harm to both her mental and physical health.

The 27-year-old actress decided to temporarily step back from her acting career as she fights for her rights and looks for new opportunities. Now she has made headlines after being spotted at an unlikely place—the Night Market in Hainan—serving snacks behind a food stall counter, almost unrecognisable in plain clothes with no makeup.

An Actress Turned Market Vendor

The actress is making headlines not because of her ongoing dispute against her former agency but because she was spotted at the Night Market in Hainan. Fans were shocked to see her in very plain clothes, no makeup, and hair in a pigtail with a hat. Zhao Lusi was spotted behind the counter of a night market stall, serving snacks directly to customers.

According to The Star, The Romance of Tiger and Rose actress handled every aspect of the operation—from cooking pancakes and preparing tanghulu to packing orders and taking payments. Fans were surprised by the sight, as they are used to seeing her looking glamorous on screen and at red carpet events. She was almost unrecognisable in her humble appearance at the traditional market located in her hometown of Chengdu.

Fans React to Zhao's Video at the Market

Clips and images of Zhao Lusi working at the stall quickly spread across social media, drawing mixed reactions. While a handful of viewers voiced concern, many more welcomed the moment, praising the actress for staying productive even while away from the spotlight. One fan said her respect for Zhao doubled as 'she would rather start from scratch than continue in an industry that has been known to overwork their people and undercut their earnings'.

Others applauded her for being a strong and independent woman, stating they were happy she got rid of the exploitative management agency and wished her success in her new life. Those who encountered Zhao Lusi at the stall were still in awe despite her plain appearance, with many fans taking the chance to snap a photo with their favourite star.

Zhao Lusi in Financial Crisis?

Zhao Lusi's appearance at a night market comes at a time when she has no active projects. The actress previously placed her career on hold amid a highly publicised dispute with Galaxy Entertainment and ongoing personal matters. While she remains a popular public figure, her current break from work has led some online observers to question whether she is facing financial difficulties.

In a previous interview with local paper Oriental Daily, Zhao said that if she is unable to continue her show business career, she would consider earning a living by running a stall. However, there is no clear evidence to suggest the actress is broke or bankrupt. She starred in numerous successful dramas and films before her fallout with her management agency and has landed endorsement deals, meaning she would likely still have savings even if her former agency mismanaged her earnings.

Whether her decision to sell snacks signals a new career direction or was simply a temporary, personal experience, Zhao left a strong impression on those who saw her—appearing humble, relaxed, and genuinely enjoying time amongst ordinary people.