Zhao Wei

Zhao Wei, also known as Vicki Zhao, is a renowned Chinese actress, director, producer, and singer, born on March 12, 1976, in Wuhu, Anhui Province, China. She rose to fame in the late 1990s for her role as Xiaoyanzi in the television series My Fair Princess (1998–1999), which became a massive hit across Asia and earned her the title of China’s first national idol . Zhao Wei graduated from the Beijing Film Academy and has since built a diverse career in the entertainment industry, starring in numerous films and television dramas, including Shaolin Soccer (2001), Painted Skin (2008), and Mulan (2009). She also made her directorial debut with the film So Young (2013), which was both a commercial and critical success .

Beyond her acting and directing achievements, Zhao Wei is a successful businesswoman, holding a significant stake in Alibaba Pictures, the film division of the e-commerce giant Alibaba Group. She has been recognized for her contributions to Chinese cinema, receiving awards such as the Hong Kong Film Award for Best Actress for her role in Dearest (2014) . Despite facing controversies, including a period of being blacklisted by the Chinese government in 2021, Zhao Wei remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry .

Zhao Wei's reflections on her career and life are encapsulated in several of her quotes. She once stated, "I wouldn't want people to laugh at me. That's why I have to give all that I can, and at least produce something that I will be proud of." This highlights her commitment to excellence and self-respect in her work. Additionally, she expressed a deep connection to nature, saying, "I feel like I'm walking into the illustrated pages of a fairy tale when I go to the vineyard. It draws you to nature and cleanses your soul, and you just don't want to leave." These insights offer a glimpse into the values and inspirations that drive her multifaceted career.