Entertainment

Chinese Actor Zhu Zixuan Shifts Focus Back to Acting, Sparking Debates on Live Streaming Trend

Chinese actor and live streamer Zhu Zixuan recently made headlines after expressing his desire to return to acting, sparking discussions and debates among Weibo netizens. Zhu Zixuan, who rose to fame for his role as Prince Ruiqian in the popular Chinese television series "The Legend of Mi Yue," gained a newfound following after transitioning to live streaming e-commerce in 2019. However, his recent revelation that he now sees acting as his main focus has reignited the conversation surrounding the trend of Chinese celebrities shifting to live streaming.

25 February 2024

In a recent interview with a Chinese entertainment news portal, Zhu Zixuan shared his thoughts on his career path, stating that while he initially believed live streaming would be the focus of his career, he now realizes that acting is his true passion. "I want to be remembered for more than just my roles on screen," Zhu Zixuan said. "I believe that acting is what I should be pursuing, and I want to continue learning and improving in this field."

Zhu Zixuan's comments come as a surprise to many who have followed his career closely. The actor first gained popularity for his acting skills, but it was his decision to venture into live streaming e-commerce in 2019 that catapulted him to new heights of fame. He joined the likes of other Chinese celebrities, such as Li Sisi, who have embraced the trend of live streaming sales.

Zhu Zixuan's recent decision to return to acting has sparked heated debates among Weibo netizens. Some users have expressed their support for Zhu's choice, citing his talent and potential for growth in the acting industry. "Zhu Zixuan is smart and has the skills to make it big in acting," one user wrote. "With the right opportunities and guidance, he could become one of China's most sought-after actors."

Others, however, have taken a more skeptical stance on Zhu Zixuan's career pivot. Some users argue that live streaming e-commerce is a more profitable and stable career path, especially in light of the increasing number of celebrities who have embraced the trend. "If live streaming e-commerce can earn you a living, why would you choose to act instead?" asked one user. "It's a much safer bet."

The trend of Chinese celebrities turning to live streaming sales has been on the rise in recent years, with many public figures seeing the opportunity as a way to diversify their income streams and connect with fans on a more personal level. According to a recent study, the number of live streaming e-commerce users in China has surpassed 500 million, with sales from the industry reaching a staggering $170 billion in 2020 alone.

The increasing popularity of live streaming sales has not been without controversy, however. Critics argue that the trend runs the risk of oversaturating the market and diluting the quality of both products and hosts. Additionally, some worry that the commercialization of live streaming e-commerce could lead to a decline in traditional career paths, such as acting and other creative fields.

Despite these concerns, many Weibo users continue to support the trend and remain optimistic about its potential to create new opportunities for both celebrities and consumers alike. "The future of humanity will include only two occupations - civil service exams and live streaming hosting," one user joked. "But who would want to go against money?"

In conclusion, Zhu Zixuan's decision to return to acting has reignited the conversation surrounding Chinese celebrities' shift to live streaming e-commerce. While some users express concern over the potential impact on traditional career paths and the increasing commercialization of all aspects of life, others remain optimistic about the opportunities that live streaming sales can create for both celebrities and fans. Regardless of which side they stand on, one thing is clear: live streaming e-commerce has become a significant trend in China, changing the way celebrities and consumers interact with each other and the world around them.

As Zhu Zixuan takes the first steps towards his acting career, it remains to be seen whether he will achieve the same level of success and acclaim as his previous ventures into live streaming e-commerce. One thing is for certain: the world will be watching closely as the Chinese entertainment industry continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of media and commerce.

1. A photograph of Zhu Zixuan, smiling confidently at the camera while dressed in a sharp suit. The background is blurred, emphasizing the actor's focused gaze.

2. A screenshot of Zhu Zixuan's live streaming e-commerce channel, featuring a product placement for an electronic device. The image shows Zhu Zixuan enthusiastically endorsing the product while wearing a casual t-shirt and jeans.

3. A poster for the television series "The Legend of Mi Yue," featuring Zhu Zixuan in his role as Prince Ruiqian. The image showcases the actor's commanding presence and stylish costume design.

4. A candid photograph of Zhu Zixuan interacting with fans during a live streaming session. The image shows the actor smiling warmly while surrounded by a group of fans, all eagerly engaging with their idol.