Fan Bingbing Returns to the Spotlight with "Green Night" After Tax Scandal Fallout

Fan Bingbing, once a titan of Chinese cinema, is set to reclaim her place on the silver screen with "Green Night," a film debuting six years after her career was derailed by a major tax scandal. The actress, once at the pinnacle of her fame in 2018, faced an unprecedented fall from grace when she was fined approximately $70 million over unpaid taxes, leading to a prolonged absence from the cinematic landscape.

Now 43 years old, Fan stars in "Green Night," directed by Han Shuai and set in South Korea. The film showcases her character's partnership with a young South Korean woman as they navigate the complexities of female empowerment. Recent insights shared by Fan at the Busan International Film Festival highlight the film’s themes of solidarity among women and how her personal experiences have informed her character.

Despite her hiatus, during which she expanded her beauty brand, Fan has steered clear of criminal charges, maintaining a level of infamy. "Green Night" will debut online for U.S. audiences this Friday, and its unofficial viewings on Chinese platforms hint at Fan's enduring appeal despite the lack of a straight release in the mainland. The tumultuous journey from scandal to a renewed passion for acting reflects the dynamic nature of the entertainment scene in Asia and Fan's personal growth through adversity.