Is Actor Zi Yu Paying Off Idol Debt Amid Revenged Love Fame?

Did Zi Yu’s Idol Past Leave Him in Debt During Revenged Love Rise? (Weibo/ZiYu)

Chinese short drama actor Zi Yu, who has recently garnered widespread attention for his lead role in the BL web drama Revenged Love, is still working to clear the debt left over from his earlier idol days, despite his surging popularity.

The 22-year-old performer has made headlines in 2025 for going from a little-known actor to a fan-favourite overnight, with crowds following him through airports and public appearances alike. Yet behind the glitter of sudden fame lies a sobering financial reality — the lingering repayments of his idol-era debt.

Before stepping into the spotlight as an actor, Zi Yu participated in Chinese idol survival programs such as We Are Young and Youth with You 3, eventually debuting as part of the boy group Guanghe Shaonian. 

The group, however, disbanded in 2022, forcing Zi Yu to terminate his contract with former management company HKBX Entertainment. That decision came at a steep cost, with ZiYu ordered to pay a hefty penalty of 600,000 RMB (approximately AUD 127,000) for breaking contract.

According to his current agency, Rui He Entertainment, the actor is still gradually repaying this sum, though it is expected he will settle the remaining amount in the near future.

Zi Yu has previously revealed the reasons behind his early contract termination, claiming he suffered persistent bullying from a groupmate, Zheng Xingyuan. Allegations included physical assault and being forced to live in a basement for half the year. HKBX Entertainment publicly denied any wrongdoing, stating his injuries were the result of routine training, but Zi Yu stood by his claims.

After leaving the group, the young performer worked tirelessly to stay afloat, taking on a string of jobs ranging from retail clerk shifts to short cameo roles in dramas and commercials. 

In an effort to meet his monthly repayments — estimated at roughly 10,000 RMB on top of his rent and living expenses — Zi Yu adopted a spartan lifestyle, often relying on shared bicycles or walking to the nearest subway station.

Despite his troubled past, the actor now seems determined to move forward. When questioned recently about the previous bullying allegations, he replied simply, “There’s no need to delve into what happened in the past.”

With the resounding success of Revenged Love propelling him into a brighter spotlight, fans are hopeful Zi Yu will soon put his financial struggles behind him for good. His compelling performance in the web drama has not only revived his career but appears to be securing a stronger, more stable future — a testament to his resilience and determination.