Chinese actress Zhao Jiamin, an artist under Yu Zheng’s agency who played a supporting role in the hit drama The Double, was supposed to be the second female lead of a new drama until she was suddenly replaced during filming. Her boss, producer Yu Zheng, addressed the issue publicly.
Asked to Dye Her Hair Twice
Yu Zheng shared that the drama’s director had told the actress, “You are not the person I had in mind. I wanted (this person).” Yu Zheng went on to recount what he claims happened. After joining the crew, the actress was asked to dye her hair black, then asked to dye it yellow, but the director was still dissatisfied. She was also allegedly encouraged to perform in an exaggerated style, only for those clips to be used to justify claims that her acting wasn’t suitable. A late-night screen test at 2 a.m. was reportedly used to evaluate and ultimately dismiss her.
Sorry Your Boss Is Not Strong Enough
Yu Zheng went on to post a photo with Zhao Jiamin, confirming that she was the actress replaced by the crew. He said, “You are not the first victim, nor the only one, so don’t be discouraged.” He also apologized, stating, “I’m sorry your boss isn’t strong enough yet. But I will keep working harder.” Yu Zheng also criticized the crew for only writing half of the script because they found a popular actress to play the female lead and started filming right away; and found a male actor who had not been filming for the male lead. These hints had people thinking his accusations were towards the drama “Genius Girlfriend” starring Tian Xiwei and Hu Yitian.
Apparently, even actresses under top-tier directors have faced similar treatment, implying that lesser-known actors are often the first to be sacrificed in internal disputes. Zhao Jiamin’s replacement, actress He Shiyu, also drew attention, having allegedly taken over another high-profile role in the past. Online opinions were divided — some praising Yu Zheng for speaking out, while others accused him of using the controversy to gain buzz.
Dee
No contracts are signed? That’s crazy by the time you are dyeing hair doing this and that contract should be signed no? Imagine if she pulled out first ?
Applefish
i think there might be a contract, n that’s why they make it difficult for her, n then semi blackmail her that if she doesn’t accept them stopping work with them, she will be blacked listed. So either way, she will have the short end of the stick, better for her just to get out