In 2018, mainland Chinese actress Fan Bingbing, who was embroiled in a tax evasion scandal and subsequently blacklisted, has been actively seeking a comeback and redemption overseas in recent years. She was recently invited to serve as a jury member for the 75th Berlin International Film Festival’s main competition section. During a press conference, when asked about what she had been doing during the sensitive five-year period of being blacklisted, she responded awkwardly.
The 75th Berlin International Film Festival kicked off on February 13, with American director Todd Haynes serving as the jury president. Fan Bingbing was also a member of the jury. At the opening ceremony, Fan Bingbing wore a gown reminiscent of a cheongsam-style dress, exuding confidence and glamour, causing a stir on the red carpet and once again earning her the title of “red carpet queen.”
In 2018, Fan Bingbing faced a complete ban in the mainland Chinese entertainment industry due to the tax evasion scandal, leading to a drastic decline in her popularity. In recent years, she has made a full comeback but has been unable to return to the mainland Chinese entertainment industry. Instead, she has been collaborating with international filmmakers and attending major international film festivals. At the Berlin Film Festival, she expressed her delight at serving as a jury member for the first time and her anticipation of seeing many great films. She also mentioned that being invited was a great learning opportunity for her.
During the press conference, Fan Bingbing was asked about her emotions during the period when she disappeared from the spotlight five years ago due to the blacklist. Despite the organizers swiftly moving on to the next question, Fan Bingbing awkwardly replied, “It’s nothing. During that time, I was at home. I want to thank friends from all over the world for their concern. I was doing fine at home, dealing with some matters.” She further shared her perspective on facing challenges and learning from difficult experiences.
Fan Bingbing went on to elaborate on the biggest challenge she faced during the past five years without acting. She emphasized her eagerness to find a role that aligns with her current mindset and emotions, expressing her commitment to give her best effort and dedication to that role, acknowledging the trust placed in her by the director and those who have been waiting for her return.
At 43 years old, Fan Bingbing’s disappearance following the tax evasion controversy in May 2018 sparked widespread discussions and international media attention. Reports of her being under investigation, banned, controlled, or seeking political asylum in the U.S. circulated during that period. The incident not only stirred debates in China but also drew global media attention.
In response to the worldwide inquiry about Fan Bingbing’s whereabouts, the then Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Geng Shuang, redirected foreign media’s concerns with a curt response. Fan Bingbing’s disappearance for over three months led to speculations and concerns over the lawful and ethical implications of her situation, with some media outlets and netizens expressing shock and indignation.
Following her extended absence, Fan Bingbing received a punishment ruling from the Chinese authorities to pay over 880 million yuan in taxes, fines, and penalties within a specified timeframe to avoid legal consequences. The Fan Bingbing incident not only instilled fear among other celebrities in the industry but also triggered a tax compliance shake-up in the mainland Chinese entertainment sector.