Chinese actress Zhao Lusi files defamation lawsuit over appearance criticism

According to QQ, Zhao attended a fashion event on the evening of Sept. 6, where she quickly attracted attention. Observers noticed changes in her facial features, leading to speculation about minor cosmetic procedures, particularly around her eyes and lips.

Chinese actress Zhao Lusi at a fashion event on Sept. 6, 2024. Photo from Instagram

Thousands of social media users expressed disappointment, claiming that Zhao’s natural beauty had been lost. One user, Jiaojiao, remarked, "Lusi's face used to have a slight roundness that set her apart from other female stars. Now, her look is more typical, resembling the trend of small faces and plump lips."

Some critics were harsh, using terms like "botched plastic surgery," "transformed into a serpent demon," and "surgery made her stiff like a wax figure" to describe Zhao’s appearance.

On Saturday evening, Zhao’s management announced they had entrusted a law firm to file lawsuits against several accounts spreading the surgery rumors and using defamatory language.

Her representative revealed that lawyers have collected evidence and are suing at least five individuals, seeking public apologies and compensation for the emotional distress caused to Zhao.

Zhao’s stylist explained that her slimmer face was due to weight loss and makeup, dismissing the cosmetic surgery rumors.

Zhao, 25, began her acting career in 2017 and has since starred in popular series such as "The Romance of Tiger and Rose," "Dating in the Kitchen," "Love Better Than Immortality," "Love Like the Galaxy," and "Hidden Love."