According to a report by India Timesa social media post by Zhao’s friend revealed that the incident occurred in April 2019 while Zhao was in Beijing for auditions. Lacking a permanent residence at the time, the actress was temporarily staying with this friend.

The friend recalled returning home one evening to find Zhao visibly upset and concealed in a dark room.

“I asked her what was wrong, and she said, ‘I don’t know why they hit me. I’m really scared,’” the friend shared.

The friend’s account then revealed that Zhao was forcibly taken into the bathroom by an individual who berated her for failing to secure a film role. This person criticized her weight, skills, and appearance and disparaged her abilities compared to other actresses.

The verbal abuse reportedly continued until 2 a.m., after which the aggressor stormed out, slamming the door behind them, the friend said.

“Lusi, feeling aggrieved, grabbed her bag and opened the door to leave. It was drizzling outside, and the individual chased after her, seemingly trying to grab her,” the post continued. “We’re not sure whether they intended to slap her or pull her hair and missed, but either way, she was hit. She was terrified.”

The friend expressed remorse for not realizing sooner the severe impact the incident had on Zhao, acknowledging that despite subsequent discussions about the abuse, it was apparent that Zhao had not overcome the ordeal and suffered from recurring nightmares, a sign of unresolved trauma.

Further insights into Zhao’s reticence about the attack were also provided. Her friend noted that Zhao had contemplated legal action and had even tried to obtain video evidence of the assault but eventually decided against pursuing it due to potential repercussions under her current contract, which might have imposed financial liabilities on her family. Additionally, the aggressor’s purported intoxication at the time was used as an excuse for their behavior.

Earlier this month, footage showing Zhao being wheeled into a hospital circulated widely. On Dec. 27, Zhao’s management team announced that she had been experiencing health issues prior to her hospitalization. She underwent examinations and was following medical advice, prompting her to suspend all work- activities to focus on her recovery, the team said.

As noted by a friend of Zhao’s on social media, since her hospitalization, the actress has been diligently adhering to her prescribed treatment regimen. Conversations between Zhao and this friend indicated that she was battling aphasia.

Adding to the issues, an entertainment blogger disclosed that Zhao encountered numerous obstacles and pressures while filming “Almost Lover.” Despite her health concerns, she continued working until she collapsed and required emergency medical attention, an action by the production team that has incited anger among her fans.

Zhao, 26, began her acting career in 2017. She is known for her roles in drama series such as “The Romance of Tiger and Rose,” “Dating in the Kitchen,” “Love Better Than Immorality,” “Love Like the Galaxy,” and “Hidden Love.”