Chinese actress Meng Ziyi made her acting debut in the 2016 series God of War, Zhao Yun. The performer, who turns 30 this year, gained popularity after starring in the wuxia series The Legend of the Condor Heroes as Mu Nianci in 2017.
She rose to fame through period dramas including The Untamed (2019), Blossom (2024), and Love in Pavilion (2025).
Throughout her decade-long career, Meng has portrayed various characters. She played a melodrama antagonist in All Out of Love and a skilled warrior in the fantasy historical drama Ever Night.
Beauty as Career Obstacle and Public Response
During a recent appearance on the talk show Ifeng Talk, Meng revealed she once missed out on a role simply because she’s too pretty. The incident occurred during her rookie years when she was just starting her acting career.
“I am pretty, but you can say I am not suitable for the role, or that I can’t carry it at this stage, or that you want someone more popular,” Meng said, recounting her story. “I’ll accept it! But saying I can’t act because I am too pretty? That made me question — is it wrong to be beautiful? Being beautiful shouldn’t be a sin!”
The internet was divided over Meng’s remarks. While some netizens supported her, others were skeptical, speculating that it was just a polite way of rejecting her.
“Maybe her acting wasn’t good enough and the producers just wanted to let her down easy,” suggested one user. Another said: “There are so many beautiful women in showbiz. Her looks aren’t that out of this world.”
Would you be jailed for being half-naked in public? Well, the answer will shock you. Seriously. Watch this to the end and you'll understand:
