China’s ‘most hardworking actress’

Fan: just popping out for dinner

Born and raised in Qingdao, Shandong, Fan Bingbing graduated from Shanghai Xie Jin’s Star School and Shanghai Theatre Academy in 1996. She soon landed a role in the smash hit TV drama Princess Huanzhu, which propelled her to stardom. She became a household name in 2003, when she was named Best Actress at the Golden Rooster Awards for her role as a mistress in Feng Xiaogang’s Cell Phone.

Why is she famous?

Fan is a frequent target of gossip columns in China, with many accusing her of having gone under the knife. In response, she checked herself into a hospital in 2006 to be examined by a team of surgeons, who confirmed that she had never had plastic surgery.

Fan is also famous for her work ethic, rendering her the title of China’s ‘most hardworking actress’. The 29 year-old has appeared in more than 30 films and 40 television series in 15 years. Four years ago, Fan started her own studio, Fan Bingbing Workshop, to produce her own films.

When confronted with rumours she was trying lure into marriage a famous Chinese billionaire, she retorted, “Why should I? I am wealth incarnate myself.”

Why is she in the news?

The actress also has a new film. Buddha Mountain tells the story of a middle-aged woman and three rebellious young people, and the lessons they learn about love. It won the award for Best Artistic Contribution at the 23rd Tokyo International Film Festival. Fan also received the award for Best Actress for her role in the film. She didn’t go to Tokyo to accept the award, given the tensions at the time with Japan (see Talking Point) – a move that won her plaudits from nationalistic netizens.

It seems like Fan is also getting ready to make her way to Hollywood. China Daily reported that she’s hired an English teacher who accompanies her everywhere.

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