In recent years, Hong Kong actress Zhao Yazi has been actively engaged in commercial performances, live streaming sales, and participation in variety shows across mainland China. Recently, she displayed an unsettling emotional outburst during a video shared on her social media, oscillating between laughter and tears, which has raised concerns among netizens regarding her mental health and overall well-being.
Zhao Yazi posted a short clip showcasing a culinary experience by the picturesque West Lake in Hangzhou, where she was accompanied by her staff. In the video, she braved heavy rain to rush to West Lake after arriving at the airport late in the evening. Clad in a bright beige outfit, she enthusiastically praised the local delicacies, including the famed “West Lake Vinegar Fish” and a special new offering known as “Vegetarian Zhen Cake.” The atmosphere was lively as she engaged in cheerful banter with a friend beside her.
However, while tasting the “Vegetarian Zhen Cake,” an unexpected moment struck her, leading her to giggle uncontrollably. This sudden shift was soon followed by tears, revealing a heartbreaking transition from joy to sorrow. In the footage, Zhao could be seen attempting to shield her face with her hand, her eyes glistening with tears, exhibiting a profoundly sad expression as she wept emotionally.
Her nearby friend, seemingly baffled by this abrupt change in demeanor, quipped whether the food was “so delicious it brought her to tears,” candidly acknowledging that her sense of humor seemed different from that of others. When pressed to explain the cause behind her oscillating emotions, Zhao appeared flustered and struggled to articulate any clear reason.
Although the video included captions suggesting comments like “struck by laughter” and “unable to control oneself,” observant viewers interpreted her expressions as genuine signals of pain and emotional distress, eliciting feelings of sympathy and concern.
According to reports, Zhao Yazi, being the primary breadwinner in her family, continues to work tirelessly even at the age of seventy, participating in various commercial shows and managing the demanding nature of live streaming sales. This intensive schedule likely takes a toll on her physical and mental health, and her recent breakdown could be perceived as a cry for help after prolonged stress.
Media outlets have resurrected footage from July 25 of last year, where she similarly exhibited an emotional breakdown—covering her face and crying inexplicably after an event. At that time, she had appeared in a dazzling red Chinese dress, performing admirably on stage. Yet, backstage, she was seen weeping uncontrollably in front of a makeup mirror, leaving her staff in shock.
There have been ongoing rumors that her frequent emotional fluctuations are largely due to the financial pressures she faces, supporting a family of five. As her three sons have progressively started their own families, she additionally bears the burden of their expenses—specifically the high costs associated with her grandchildren’s education at international schools, as well as fees for competitive classes in disciplines such as equestrian training and piano. This backdrop portrays a stark contrast between her public persona and the personal struggles she endures.
Zhao Yazi, a former Miss Hong Kong, has enjoyed a prolific career in entertainment, featuring in numerous iconic productions over the decades. From “The Legend of Chu Liuxiang” to “The Heaven Sword and Dragon Saber,” and from “The Bund” to “The Dream of the Red Chamber,” her iconic roles have earned her widespread recognition throughout the Chinese-speaking world.
Born in 1952, Zhao was married to physician Huang Hanwei in 1975 but divorced in 1983, obtaining custody of their two sons, Huang Guanghong and Huang Guangyi. In 1984, she married Huang Jinshen in the United States, and they welcomed a son, Huang Kaijie. Now at 71 years old, Zhao frequently trends on platforms like Weibo due to her youthful appearance. Recently, Hong Kong director Wang Jing shared anecdotes about the golden age of Hong Kong cinema on YouTube, describing Zhao Yazi as someone who has been “blessed by heaven” in her career.