Career shifts for former Chinese stars Zhao Wei, Huang Xiaoming, and Chen Kun

The career trajectories of the ‘Three Swordsmen’ from the Beijing Film Academy’s class of 1996—Zhao Wei, Huang Xiaoming, and Chen Kun—have diverged significantly over the past 30 years.

Zhao Wei, once a ‘national idol’ at the height of her fame, has largely disappeared from the entertainment industry following a controversial marriage. Reports indicate she currently lives a private life with little involvement in major artistic projects. Chen Kun, after experiencing a series of professional setbacks, has transitioned into teaching and running a small business.

In contrast, Huang Xiaoming remains a prominent figure in the industry. Despite occasional criticism regarding his acting, he has achieved significant critical acclaim, winning multiple Best Actor awards, including Golden Rooster awards and a 2024 award at the Shanghai International Film Festival for ‘Sunshine Club’. Beyond acting, Huang is pursuing a doctorate in arts management and manages investments in approximately 40 different companies.