China Media and Entertainment Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 67 Week of 8 September 2025
(1) Chinese star Xin Zhilei wins Best Actress at Venice Film Festival
Xin Zhilei wins Venice Best Actress for The Sun Rises on Us All, becoming China’s second Golden Lion recipient after Gong Li. Her 18-year journey from mockery to glory inspires women to “dream big”.
(2) Fading hopes: Injured Mirror dancer faces medical resource shortage on the road to recovery
Mirror concert accident survivor Mo Li Kai-yin’s family struggles with dwindling resources for his recovery 3 years later, facing medical supply shortages and emergency care gaps amid unstable support.
(3) Hong Kong’s new boy band ALITZ officially debuts after three years in preparation with star producer support
Hong Kong’s new boy band ALITZ debuts after 3 years’ training, releasing Gen Z-inspired single Shooting for the Stars and mini-album Light Up to empower youth through music blending local and global sounds.
(4) Hong Kong actress Fala Chen spotted at 2025 Toronto International Film Festival
Fala Chen balances family life with Hollywood success, stunning at TIFF 2025 in a red gown while sparking health debates over recent weight loss. The 43-year-old former pageant star is mother to two children with husband Emmanuel Straschnov.
(5) 2025 Golden Panda Awards | Tiffany Tang Challenges Charmaine Sheh for Best TV Actress – The Last Dance Nominated for Best Film and Best Actress
The 2nd Golden Panda Awards (Sept 13, Chengdu) spotlights global talent, with Tiffany Tang (Blossoms Shanghai) vying for Best TV Actress and The Last Dance (Michelle Wai) leading film nominations under Chen Kaige’s jury.
(6) Jeanne Lau’s Fairytale Roman Wedding: A Tribute to Love and Heritage
Jeanne Lau, daughter of martial arts master Lau Kar Leung, wed in a Roman fairytale wedding (May 25) with Roman Holiday vibes and LOTR touches, honoring her family’s cinematic legacy.
(7) Mainland diva Na Ying’s husband Meng Tong embroiled in infidelity scandal
Na Ying’s husband Meng Tong denies cheating allegations after paparazzi footage shows him dining intimately with a young woman then returning to their villa, contradicting his reputation as devoted family man.
(8) How Shu Qi drew on her painful childhood for Girl, her directorial debut
Shu Qi’s directorial debut Girl draws from her traumatic childhood, blending autobiography with fiction. The Venice competitor reflects her growth under mentor Hou Hsiao-hsien, while she balances acting in projects like Netflix’s The Resurrected.
(9) Joey Yung Absent from Yunfu Middle School Stadium Variety Show; Two Male Vocalists Take Center Stage
JJ Lin & Jackie Chan release Skibidi—a high-energy EDM track celebrating resilience, blending Chan’s first electronic music attempt with Lin’s vocals. Follows their April Sincere Hero duet, leveraging viral slang’s appeal.
(10) Ian Leads MIRROR with 14 Nominations at 23rd CASH Golden Sail Music Awards
Ian (MIRROR) leads with 14 solo nominations at CASH Music Awards, while Jeremy, Keung To, and AK also shine. The group dominates categories, sparking fierce fan campaigns for votes.
(11) Chinese Actor Yu Menglong Dies After Falling From Building at Age 37
Actor Yu Menglong (37) died in a Beijing building fall on Sept 11, with police ruling out foul play. Known for Eternal Love, his death sparked online speculation before platforms removed rumors.
(12) Xiaohongshu app penalised by cyberspace authority over hyping celebrities content
China’s internet regulator penalised Xiaohongshu for failing to curb celebrity gossip and “negative” content, sparking debate over selective enforcement. The move reflects tightening control over social media, even on lifestyle-focused platforms.
(1) Chinese star Xin Zhilei wins Best Actress at Venice Film Festival
(Photo Credit: Xinhua)
Chinese actress Xin Zhilei won the Best Actress award at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, becoming only the second mainland Chinese actress to receive this honour since Gong Li’s 1992 victory. She was presented the Golden Lion trophy by juror Zhao Tao for her portrayal of a woman caught in a love triangle in the arthouse film The Sun Rises on Us All. Directed by neo-noir filmmaker Cai Shangjun, the movie follows two former lovers whose Guangdong reunion ends in tragedy, filmed across multiple South China locations.
In her tearful acceptance speech, Xin reflected on her 18-year career since debuting in 2005: “This feels like a dream… I once claimed I wanted to become an international superstar but faced ridicule.” The Heilongjiang-born actress (b. 1986) encouraged others to pursue ambitious dreams, especially women: “Dare to dream big – it might come true like it did for me.” Her breakthrough came with the 2016 Berlinale-winning Crosscurrent, followed by acclaimed roles in Ruyi’s Royal Love in the Palace (2018) and Wong Kar-wai’s Blossoms Shanghai (2023).
Xin’s win sparked massive online discussion, with related hashtags amassing 150 million views on Weibo. Netizens praised both her acting talent and authentic personality, particularly moved by her emotional trophy dedication to her mother. Director Cai Shangjun revealed the casting challenge for this female-perspective film, noting Xin was chosen after co-writer (and Cai’s wife) Han Nianjin saw her on a variety show and was struck by her “natural, decisive temperament” – a quality that ultimately defined her award-winning performance.
News Source: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202509/07/WS68bd0124a3108622abc9f42a.html
(2) Fading hopes: Injured Mirror dancer faces medical resource shortage on the road to recovery
(Photo Credit: The Standard)
Three years after dancer Mo Li Kai-yin sustained severe injuries from a falling video screen at a Mirror concert in Hong Kong, his family now faces a critical shortage of resources for his continued recovery. In a recent prayer letter dated September 6, his father Derek Li Shing-lam revealed the recovery journey has been “full of twists and turns,” noting that initial promises of financial support for medical expenses have diminished despite reigniting hope early on. The family emphasised that while advanced treatment connections exist, sustaining them requires consistent resources now in jeopardy.
Derek Li expressed profound uncertainty about their path forward, questioning: “If we lose both treatment options and support, what choice are we left with?” He detailed how logistical delays have compromised medical supplies, rendering some ineffective before use. The family’s ability to pursue specialised care, initially enabled by pledged support, has been repeatedly disrupted over the past three years, forcing constant adjustments to Mo Li’s treatment plan amid growing instability.
A critical incident on September 5 underscored their vulnerability when a caregiver lost contact during a late-night emergency. Derek recounted stepping in with his wife to assist their son’s bowel movement at 3 am despite lacking medical training, describing it as another moment of “nervousness and helplessness.” This episode highlights the relentless emotional and physical toll on the parents, who remain primary advocates for their son’s recovery amid systemic failures and unreliable support networks.
News Source: https://www.thestandard.com.hk/hk-and-china-showbiz/article/310968/Fading-hopes-Injured-Mirror-dancer-faces-medical-resource-shortage-on-the-road-to-recovery
(Photo Credit: KSOUND UNION)
After three years of systematic training under the management company, KSOUND UNION, the six-member boy band ALITZ has officially debuted with a mission to inspire Generation Z through music. The group’s name embodies its core concepts of youth, passion, and courage, derived from the phrase “Accompany every light of Gen Z” and aspirally reflecting “A-list” elite status. Following 18 months of intensive closed-door training, members Ethan (leader), Allix, Mantik, Cédric, Noa, and Andrew have honed their skills in singing, dancing, and composition, positioning themselves as a promising new force in the music industry.
ALITZ launched their debut single “Shooting for the Stars” on August 20, 2025, followed by a mini-album “Light Up” and a showcase event on September 8 at Chai Wan’s Youth Square. The single encourages breaking free from constraints and chasing dreams, lyrically urging listeners to defy norms and ignore negativity. The album, inspired by the members’ training journey and created with emerging musicians, traces a narrative from self-doubt to self-confidence, capturing the spirit and resilience of Gen Z through introspective tracks and declarative finales.
The group collaborated with rising music producer JONO (known for ITZY’s “Locked NLoaded”) on their pre-release and main singles, aiming to blend diverse styles and international perspectives into their music. This partnership underscores ALITZ’s commitment to merging local authenticity with global appeal, injecting fresh energy into their sound. Through lyrical themes of perseverance and self-creation, ALITZ aims to empower their generation to seize the present and define their own future, establishing themselves as both musical innovators and cultural inspirations.
News Source: https://www.hk01.com/%E7%9C%BE%E6%A8%82%E8%BF%B7/60274389/%E9%A6%99%E6%B8%AF%E6%96%B0%E6%99%89%E7%94%B7%E5%AD%90%E7%B5%84%E5%90%88-alitz-%E6%AD%A3%E5%BC%8F%E5%87%BA%E9%81%93-%E7%B1%8C%E5%82%99%E4%B8%89%E5%B9%B4%E4%BB%B2%E6%9C%89%E8%B6%85%E5%BC%B7%E5%8B%81%E8%A3%BD%E4%BD%9C%E4%BA%BA
(4) Hong Kong actress Fala Chen spotted at 2025 Toronto International Film Festival
(Photo Credit: Valerie Macon / AFP)
Hong Kong actress Fala Chen, who was the first runner-up in the 2005 Miss Chinese International pageant, has been making headlines recently. At 43 years old, she has been happily married to her second husband, Emmanuel Straschnov, since their wedding in France in 2019. Fala welcomed her daughter, Mini, on Valentine’s Day in 2021, followed by the birth of her son last year, forming a blissful family of four. Despite her roles as a wife and mother, Fala remains dedicated to her acting career, making strides in Hollywood and continuously impressing with her work ethic and well-maintained appearance.
Fala Chen, known for her collaboration with Giorgio Armani earlier this year, recently attended the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, where she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase her film to an audience of over 1700 people. Her stunning appearance at the event, donning a red, revealing evening gown, garnered attention and praise for her captivating look.
While Fala’s Instagram photos from the festival showcased her in a glamorous light, a recent video shared by netizens revealed a different perspective, noting her significant weight loss. Comments varied from surprise at her slender figure to concerns about her health, with some remarking on her striking appearance at the festival.
News Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/hong-kong-actress-fala-chen-spotted-at-2025-toronto-international-film-festival/
(5) 2025 Golden Panda Awards | Tiffany Tang Challenges Charmaine Sheh for Best TV Actress – The Last Dance Nominated for Best Film and Best Actress
(Photo Credit: HK01)
The 2nd Golden Panda Awards, a prestigious mainland Chinese film and television ceremony, will take place on September 13 in Chengdu, with director Chen Kaige chairing a 27-member international jury. The event recognizes excellence across film and TV categories, with recent shortlist announcements generating significant public attention. The awards highlight China’s growing influence in global entertainment and its commitment to celebrating both domestic and international talent.
Tiffany Tang’s performance in Wong Kar-wai’s Blossoms Shanghai earned her a “nomination grand slam” (following previous nods at the Feitian, Magnolia, and Golden Eagle Awards), positioning her as a serious contender for Best TV Actress. She faces fierce competition from Charmaine Sheh (The Queen of News) and Song Jia (When the Mountains Bloom), underscoring her successful transition from idol to respected actress. The category has sparked intense online debate, reflecting the high stakes and quality of this year’s nominees.
In the film segment, The Last Dance received dual nominations for Best Film and Best Actress (Michelle Wai), making Wai the only Chinese actress shortlisted for the top film honor. The Best Actor category is equally competitive, pitting Zhu Yilong against Taiwan’s Wu Kang-ren and Japan’s Kōji Yakusho. These nominations emphasize the awards’ international scope and the exceptional caliber of this year’s submissions across both film and television.
(6) Jeanne Lau’s Fairytale Roman Wedding: A Tribute to Love and Heritage
(Photo credit: Singtao Headline)
The eldest daughter of late martial arts legend Lau Kar-leung and actress-lawyer Mary Jean Reimer, Jeanne Lau (劉萬儀), has shared enchanting photos from her luxurious outdoor wedding in Rome, where she married her foreign soulmate (who is an American businessman, name unknown) on May 25, 2025. The ceremony at Palazzo Brancaccio (a Roman Holiday filming location) featured white floral arrangements fit for royalty, with Jeanne’s Grace Kelly-inspired gown and Lord of the Rings-themed decor blending classic Hollywood glamour with fantasy romance.
Jeanne said on social media, “My dress was inspired by Grace Kelly. We chose Palazzo Brancaccio (where Roman Holiday was filmed!) and made our ceremony a tad LOTR inspired.”
Jeanne, who briefly pursued modelling and martial arts (honouring her father’s legacy), now works in law like her mother and younger sister Rosie Lau (劉幸儀), a former fitness competitor and now a mother herself. The wedding’s most viral moment captured the couple mid-kiss on a grassy knoll, radiating timeless romance.
(7) Mainland diva Na Ying’s husband Meng Tong embroiled in infidelity scandal
(Photo Credit: Weibo)
Chinese businessman Meng Tong, husband of renowned singer Na Ying, has come under scrutiny following paparazzi footage that appears to show him in an intimate setting with a young woman. The video, which quickly went viral on Weibo, captures the 58-year-old dining with a long-haired companion at a restaurant before returning together to what is believed to be the couple’s shared villa. The footage, released on September 10, sparked immediate speculation about the state of his marriage to Na Ying, one of China’s most beloved divas.
Meng, a German-educated entrepreneur from a military family, has long been portrayed as a model husband and stepfather. Since marrying Na Ying in 2006, he has been praised for treating her son from a previous marriage as his own. The scandal comes just days after Na Ying publicly praised Meng on the variety show Divas Hit the Road, calling him her “rock” and joking that she would choose him as her desert island companion. The timing of the video has led to widespread discussion about the authenticity of celebrity relationships in the public eye.
Meng has firmly denied any wrongdoing, claiming the woman was merely a neighbour assisting him due to a leg injury. Supporting medical records were later shared online to corroborate his account. While he apologised for any perceived impropriety, the incident has continued to fuel debates about privacy and media intrusion in China’s entertainment industry. Fans remain divided, with some calling for discretion in personal matters, while others question the plausibility of Meng’s explanation. The scandal underscores the intense scrutiny faced by high-profile couples in the public sphere.
(8) How Shu Qi drew on her painful childhood for Girl, her directorial debut
(Photo Credit: He Ruiqiong)
Taiwanese actress-turned-director Shu Qi has channelled her painful childhood into her directorial debut, Girl, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival. The film, set in 1988 Taiwan, follows two sisters living with an abusive stepfather – a narrative deeply rooted in Shu Qi’s own experiences, with the script containing “70 per cent of my own self”, stated Shu Qi. The project was years in the making, inspired by mentor Hou Hsiao-hsien, who encouraged her to direct. After shelving an early draft, she completed the screenplay in 2024, marking a transformative moment in her career.
Shu Qi’s transition from acclaimed actress to director was fuelled by her collaborations with Hou Hsiao-hsien, including Millennium Mambo (2001) and The Assassin (2015). She initially considered starring in Girl but ultimately cast singer Joanne Tang as the mother, navigating linguistic and emotional challenges. The film, praised for its raw intimacy, reflects Shu Qi’s ability to blend autobiography with fiction. Her evolution behind the camera comes amid a banner year, including a starring role in Bi Gan’s Resurrection and the upcoming Netflix series The Resurrected.
Despite her directorial success, Shu Qi remains committed to acting, relishing roles like the vengeful mother in The Resurrected. Yet, she’s already planning her next film, proving her creative ambition extends beyond the screen. With Academy membership and global projects, Shu Qi continues to redefine herself as both a performer and a visionary filmmaker.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/entertainment/article/3324858/how-shu-qi-drew-her-painful-childhood-girl-her-directorial-debut?module=top_story&pgtype=subsection
(9) Joey Yung Absent from Yunfu Middle School Stadium Variety Show; Two Male Vocalists Take Center Stage
(Photo Credit: HK01)
A promotional poster for the “2025 Mid-Autumn Hong Kong-Taiwan Star Concert” initially featured Cantonese diva Joey Yung as the headline act at Yunfu City’s Huanggang Experimental Middle School stadium, a venue in a fifth-tier city that sparked online debate about its appropriateness for a top-tier artist. However, an updated poster completely removed Yung’s name and image, repositioning side singer Justin Lo as the new center-stage performer. The revamped lineup also added veteran singers Francis Lui and Taiwan’s Pan Mei-chen, while previously shadowed “mystery guest” Ken Hung (Yung’s labelmate) was formally revealed.
The revised lineup triggered ticket price adjustments: original tiers (RMB 188–888) dropped to RMB 180 – 680, fueling online discussions about Yung’s perceived “value.” Netizens humorously calculated her “worth” at RMB 8 (based on the lowest ticket difference) or RMB 208 (highest tier gap), with some jestingly equating her value to “Lui + Pan + RMB 8.” Critics dismissed these claims as absurd, noting Yung’s proven draw her previous 34-show My Secret Liveseries in Hong Kong sold out at RMB 1,180 per ticket, confirming her strong market appeal.
While many netizens supported Yung’s withdrawal as a “wise decision” to protect her brand, others lamented the loss, stating the show “lost its luster without Joey.” Some speculated her initial agreement might have been a “favor-based commitment”. The incident underscores broader industry conversations about artists’ strategic positioning and the balancing of commercial opportunities with professional prestige in regional markets.
(10) Ian Leads MIRROR with 14 Nominations at 23rd CASH Golden Sail Music Awards
(Photo Credit: On.cc)
MIRROR member Ian Chan (陳卓賢) has emerged as the group’s top nominee at the 23rd CASH Golden Sail Music Awards, securing 14 individual nominations across five solo tracks. His songs “Interlude” and “Sculp” each earned four nods, while “Pessimism”, “The Weeping Trees” and “NPC Adventure” received two nominations apiece. Including group and collaboration categories, Ian’s total nominations reach 21, making him the most nominated MIRROR member this year.
While Ian leads the nominations, other MIRROR members have also made notable showings. Jeremy Lee received 11 nominations across six solo tracks. Keung To earned 8 nominations, with 3 songs contending for Best Male Vocal Performance. Anson Kong and Edan Lui followed closely with seven and six nominations respectively, while Anson Lo rounded out the group’s representation with 5 nominations.
The announcement has sparked intense fan activity across social media platforms, with supporters of each member campaigning vigorously for their favourites. Ian personally shared the nomination news with his followers, encouraging continued support during the voting period. Final results will be announced after public and judge voting concludes.
News Source: https://hk.on.cc/hk/bkn/cnt/entertainment/20250911/bkn-20250911100113730-0911_00862_001.html
(11) Chinese Actor Yu Menglong Dies After Falling From Building at Age 37
(Photo Credit: The Love Lasts Two Minds)
Mainland Chinese actor Yu Menglong, known for roles in Eternal Love and Go Princess Go, died on September 11 after falling from a building in Beijing’s Chaoyang district. His studio confirmed the 37-year-old’s death in a statement, noting police have ruled out criminality. The incident occurred at a residential complex, where a neighbour walking their dog reportedly discovered his body at around 6 a.m.
According to witnesses, Yu had been dining with friends the previous night before retiring to a bedroom around 2 a.m. Friends later found the window screen broken and his body below. Unverified reports suggest he was carrying two Rolex watches belonging to acquaintances. While authorities continue investigating, social media platforms like Weibo have cracked down on unverified conspiracy theories about his death, banning accounts spreading speculation.
The actor rose to fame playing Xu Xian in The Legend of White Snake (2018) and later appeared on Shine! Super Brothers (2020). His final projects include the wuxia comedy Hidden Master (2024) and an upcoming historical drama. Colleagues and fans have expressed shock, remembering him as a talented performer with a bright future ahead.
News Source: https://www.hk01.com/%E5%8D%B3%E6%99%82%E4%B8%AD%E5%9C%8B/60275629/%E4%BA%8E%E6%9C%A6%E6%9C%A7%E5%A2%AE%E6%A8%93%E8%BA%AB%E4%BA%A1%E7%B5%82%E5%B9%B437%E6%AD%B2-%E8%AD%A6%E6%96%B9%E6%8E%92%E9%99%A4%E5%88%91%E4%BA%8B%E5%AB%8C%E7%96%91-%E6%9B%BE%E5%87%BA%E6%BC%94-%E4%B8%89%E7%94%9F%E4%B8%89%E4%B8%96
(12) Xiaohongshu app penalised by cyberspace authority over hyping celebrities content
(Photo Credit: AFP)
China’s Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) issued a stern warning to Xiaohongshu (RedNote) executives on Thursday, ordering “warnings and strict punishment” for the platform’s failure to regulate content effectively. The regulator accused the lifestyle-focused social media app of promoting “trivial” and “negative” posts, particularly those hyping celebrities’ personal lives, which frequently appeared on its trending lists. The CAC emphasised that such content damages the “internet ecology” and stressed the need for a “clear, clean, and healthy cyberspace” that aligns with public interests. However, no specific details about the penalties were disclosed.
Launched in Shanghai in 2013, Xiaohongshu has grown into one of China’s most popular platforms, boasting hundreds of millions of monthly active users. Unlike more politically oriented platforms like Weibo or Douyin (China’s version of TikTok), Xiaohongshu primarily focuses on lifestyle, beauty, travel, and e-commerce, functioning similarly to Instagram and TikTok Shop. Its algorithm-driven “Explore” page curates personalised recommendations, while its integrated marketplace allows users to purchase products directly. Notably, the platform has been perceived as more lenient regarding censorship, permitting discussions on sensitive topics such as LGBTQ+ rights and women’s independence – subjects often restricted on other Chinese social media sites.
The crackdown has sparked mixed reactions among users. Some applauded the move, agreeing that excessive celebrity gossip detracts from meaningful content. Others, however, criticised the selective enforcement, arguing that platforms like Weibo (known for more sensationalised celebrity news) should face similar scrutiny. While the CAC did not name other platforms in its statement, it broadly urged all websites to uphold their “main responsibilities” in maintaining a regulated online environment. The penalty highlights China’s tightening control over digital content, even on platforms traditionally considered apolitical. Xiaohongshu’s role as a hub for influencer marketing and “check-in tourism” (where users visit trending locations for social media photos) further underscores the balancing act between creative expression and state-mandated content moderation in China’s digital sphere.
