Hidden Love star Zhao Lusi breaks down, accuses agency of exploiting her during illness: 'They took my money'
She alleged financial exploitation and manipulation during her illness
Chinese actress Zhao Lusi, known for her leading roles in popular dramas such as The Romance of Tiger and Rose and Hidden Love, has spoken out publicly against her management company, Galaxy Kuyu Media (KU), alleging financial exploitation, emotional manipulation, and a lack of professional support, especially during a period of illness.
In a candid post on Weibo, Zhao expressed her frustration and heartbreak, accusing KU of breaching financial agreements, withdrawing funds from her personal studio without authorisation, and leaving her to shoulder financial burdens alone while refusing to relinquish control of her studio operations.
“I’ve waited until now and still haven’t received any communication,” she wrote. “Two years ago, I stupidly renewed my contract, and now there’s a four-year financial agreement in place. So they’re not in a hurry—and I’m the only one left suffering.”
Allegations of financial mismanagement and coercion
Zhao detailed a series of grievances, including the unauthorised withdrawal of 2.05 million yuan from her studio's account. She claimed that KU tricked her financial team into signing off on a split earnings report and refused to return operational control of her studio, which has since disbanded entirely.
“How many team members are even left?” she wrote. “Eight months of waiting for a resolution and this is the result?”
The actress also shared that after falling ill, she was forced to cancel endorsement deals and reduce her filming workload. While the company allegedly assured her they would take responsibility, Zhao says she was ultimately left to pay the price on her own.
Zhao claimed that she was warned against speaking out, with threats that she could be blacklisted from the entertainment industry if she pursued public or legal action.
“They told me I might be blacklisted and should stay quiet. Is that what they call a solution?” she asked in her statement.
Calls for justice and support from fans
The allegations sparked widespread concern and support from fans. The Zhao Lusi International Fan Community released an official statement condemning the actions of Galaxy Kuyu Media and calling for Zhao’s immediate release from all contractual obligations.
“The emotional abuse, gaslighting, financial exploitation, manipulation, and threats she endured are not only gravely unjust, but a betrayal of the respect and care every individual deserves,” the statement read.
The group launched the hashtag #JusticeForZhaoLusi and #FreedomForRosy, urging for transparency and accountability, and for Zhao to be allowed to pursue independent legal action without retaliation.
Mental health and industry silence
Earlier this year, Zhao Lusi revealed that she had been suffering from depression. According to her post, instead of offering support during her recovery, KU allegedly withheld resources, dismantled her studio, and gradually distanced themselves—effectively isolating her when she was most vulnerable.
“They took advantage of how uneasy it’s been for me to climb step by step to where I am today,” Zhao wrote. “But I don’t need you to blacklist me. I’m done.”
Key allegations at a glance:
KU allegedly withdrew 2.05 million yuan from Zhao's studio without negotiation.
Her studio was dismantled without her consent, and KU still refuses to return operational control.
Zhao was threatened with blacklisting if she went public.
She was left to bear all financial losses after falling ill, despite assurances of company support.
KU allegedly refused to terminate her contract, citing personal illness within their team as an excuse.
No response from KU yet
As of publication, Galaxy Kuyu Media has not issued an official statement responding to Zhao Lusi’s accusations.
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