Actresses Vicky Zhao, Shu Qi Ordered to ‘Return’ $6 Million as China Cracks Down on Overpaid Celebrities

As the high-profile tax evasion case of superstar Fan Bingbing continues to make global headlines, Chinese authorities have been cracking down on other “erring” local celebrities.

Chinese actress Vicky Zhao and Taiwanese actress Shu Qi have recently caught the attention of the National Radio and Television administration for reportedly getting overpaid in their recent appearance in a reality show.

According to AsiaOne, new state regulations prohibit artists to be paid more than 10 million yuan ($1.5 million) per season on TV program appearances.

It was reportedly found that Zhao, Qi, and actor Alec Su were 50 million yuan ($7.2 million) in the second season of “Chinese Restaurant 2.”

Sources privy to the cases revealed that the National Radio and Television administration ordered both actresses to each return 40 million yuan ($5.8 million) from their earnings on the show.

While both actresses complied with the order, it was only Zhao who did so without hesitation, as Shu Qi initially displayed some reluctance. Zhao, who is her long-time friend, reportedly had to call her up and convince her to surrender the money.

It is now speculated that the authorities will be investigating singer Faye Wong next for allegedly earning 300 million yuan ($43.6 million) from a recent musical reality competition she participated in. Wong has yet to issue a statement on the issue.

It was reported earlier this week that China’s State Administration of Taxation has ordered Fan Bingbing to pay over 800 million yuan ($116.5 million) in taxes, fines, and overdue charges to avoid criminal prosecution.

The international star, who played the character Blink in 2014’s “X-Men: Days of Future Past,” has since issued a letter of apology on social media, expressing regret for her actions.

Featured Image via Instagram / zhaoweiofficial

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