Chinese actress Fan Bingbing gains 10 kg for her role in 'Mother Bhumi'

The 43-year-old actress explained that this physical transformation was for the role of a woman who battles evil forces. To achieve the look, she followed a weight gain diet, increased her food intake, and underwent tanning sessions to match the character’s image, as reported by HK01.

After completing the film’s production in November, Fan has since adopted a strict diet and exercise regimen to return to her previous physique. Discussing her commitment to the role, she stated, "Humans are flawed by nature. Only dolls are perfect."

Chinese actress Fan Bingbing. Photo from Instagram

"Mother Bhumi", a Malaysian-Italian co-production set in the 1990s, features Fan as Hong Im, a widow and farmer living near the Malaysian-Thailand border. Her character uses magical powers to help villagers while uncovering the mystery of her husband’s disappearance. The film is set for release in 2025.

Following "Mother Bhumi", Fan will star in a Hollywood project. Over the past two years, she has focused on international ventures in film, fashion, and advertising, especially as her activities in mainland China remain limited. Last year, she appeared in the South Korean film "Green Night".

Fan, who entered the Chinese entertainment industry at 17, has achieved global recognition as a singer, television producer, and an award-winning actress, notably for her role in the 2023 movie "Cell Phone." She was the highest-paid star on Forbes China's Celebrity 100 list from 2013 to 2017.

In 2018, however, the acclaimed actress faced accusations of tax evasion, which led to a substantial fine of 883 million yuan ($124 million) and restricted her working opportunities in China.