Chinese actress Zhao Yingzi has become the center of a red carpet controversy after reportedly being asked to leave the 78th Cannes Film Festival for wearing a semi-sheer silver gown that some say violated the festival’s attire guidelines.
The incident took place on May 13 (local time) during the opening ceremony in Cannes, France. Zhao walked the red carpet in a striking dress that revealed much of her upper body, quickly catching the attention of both photographers and event staff.
This came just days after Cannes organizers reiterated strict red carpet rules, including:
- “Excessive exposure is prohibited on the red carpet.”
- “Bulky skirts that block pathways or affect seat arrangements are not allowed.”
According to Chinese media outlet ET Today, an entertainment blogger posted a video showing Zhao being approached by staff and subsequently asked to leave the red carpet. This fueled speculation that her see-through outfit was in breach of the festival’s official dress code.
However, others pointed out that the incident might have been less about the dress and more about the duration of Zhao’s red carpet appearance. Some believe she may have overstayed her time slot, prompting her removal regardless of attire.
Addressing the issue on her Weibo account, Zhao clarified that she originally planned to wear a red dress, but a coffee spill forced her to make a last-minute switch to the silver one.
Zhao Yingzi debuted in 2013 and gained popularity through the 2014 Chinese drama The Romance of the Condor Heroes. She has since remained active in Chinese entertainment.
Some Unknown Facts About Zhao Yingzi
Zhao Yingzi Secretly Holds a Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Zhao Yingzi
While Zhao Yingzi is widely known for her glamorous red carpet appearances and historical drama roles, few fans know that she holds a degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Before fully committing to her entertainment career, she studied herbal remedies and acupuncture, which she credits for her calm demeanor and flawless skin.
“I’ve always believed in natural healing,” Zhao once said in a lesser-known interview. “Understanding the body holistically helps me stay balanced, even in this chaotic industry.”
This background makes her one of the few Chinese actresses with formal knowledge in Eastern wellness practices.
1. Zhao Yingzi Was a Professional Swimmer Before Acting
Before entering the entertainment industry, Zhao Yingzi trained as a competitive swimmer in her hometown. Her dedication to the sport taught her discipline and resilience—qualities that later helped her navigate the pressures of acting.
2. She Is a Trained Classical Singer
Zhao Yingzi studied classical vocal performance at the Central Academy of Drama. Her strong singing ability has earned her roles in musicals and opera-style dramas, although she rarely showcases this talent publicly.
3. Zhao Yingzi Turned Down a Hollywood Offer
Zhao Yingzi
In 2019, Zhao reportedly turned down a supporting role in a Hollywood action film due to scheduling conflicts and creative differences. She later revealed in an interview that she wanted to focus on Chinese cinema and preserve cultural authenticity in her performances.
4. Zhao Yingzi Has a Personal Jewelry Line
Zhao launched a limited-edition jewelry brand in 2022, inspired by traditional Chinese elements and modern femininity. Her pieces are known for using jade and rose gold, and she occasionally wears them during award shows
🧘 5. She Practices Qi Gong and Meditation Daily
Zhao Yingzi is known to begin each day with Qi Gong exercises and guided meditation. She credits this ancient Chinese practice for maintaining her mental clarity, posture, and glowing skin during long filming hours.
