Chinese actress Fan Bingbing has made a name for herself in both local and international cinema. She appeared as Blink in 2014’s X-Men: Days of Future Past, and is also notable for portrayals in over 60 Chinese films and television shows, including the country’s version of Iron Man 3. In addition to acting, Bingbing has also released a studio album and is a prominent endorser in China. As seen on her Instagram account, the actress has partnered up with numerous luxury brands over the years, such as Cartier, Givenchy, Louis Vuitton, and Estee Lauder. In 2017, she was China’s highest-paid actress, reportedly earning $43 million. On the same year, she was named by TIME magazine as one of the 100 most influential people in the world. Her company included personalities like Oscar-winning star Emma Stone, Presidential daughter Ivanka Trump, and Crazy Rich Asians headliner Constance Wu.
Despite fame and fortune, dark news about Fan Bingbing has recently been making headlines. Since July of this year, the famous actress is nowhere to be seen. Her last international public appearance was during last May’s Cannes Film Festival. Chinese officials report that Bingbing has been accused of tax evasion, not giving a single dollar of her fortune back to her country. She has “been brought under control” and is “about to receive legal judgement”, statements say. Still, many question the Chinese government’s involvement in her disappearance.
The missing Fan Bingbing has also caused a stir with international journalist looking for answers. Many have written and commented about China’s justice system and how they handled this situation. Netizens have commented that the actress is not the type of person not to make public appearance. Bingbing has been notable for her friendly red carpet personality and high-profile appearances in both local and international events.
Fans and media are concerned about her two month disappearance. Many believe that she is on house arrest, or has been put into a secret camp called “black jail”, where she will receive her “re-education” for up to six months. Activist Peter Dahlin, has spoken about his time in a black jail in Beijing, where he was interrogated for 23 days. Before her disappearance, Fan Bingbing was set to begin filming a new spy thriller in Hollywood with Penelope Cruz and Lupita Nyong’o. While many wait for answers, it is hard not to think about the actress people love and where she may be now.
