Chinese actress Zhao Wei officially confirmed her divorce from businessman Huang Youlong on December 28, 2024, in a statement aimed at distancing herself from her ex-husband's escalating financial troubles. The announcement, shared via social media, marked the first time Zhao publicly addressed the separation, revealing the marriage had legally ended years ago.
"I formally divorced Mr. Huang years ago. Our marital relationship has long been legally terminated," Zhao wrote. "Any incidents, statements, or news reports related to him have nothing to do with me. I sincerely urge everyone to acknowledge these facts and refrain from involving me in false associations or baseless reports."
Chinese Actress Zhao Wei Confirms Divorce from Huang Youlong Amid HK$753 Million Debt Scandal
The statement comes as Huang faces mounting legal and financial issues, including a recent lawsuit filed by Wise Choice Ventures Limited in Hong Kong's High Court. The company alleges that Huang owes approximately HK$753 million in principal and interest, seeking repayment alongside accrued legal costs. The claim adds to a series of financial disputes tied to Huang, who has been pursued for unpaid debts exceeding HK$300 million in earlier cases and additional claims related to unpaid rent at a luxury property in Tsuen Wan.
Zhao and Huang, who married in 2008 and share a daughter, were once considered a power couple in China's entertainment and business spheres. However, their joint ventures drew scrutiny, culminating in a 2018 penalty barring them from participating in China's securities market for five years.
Zhao's statement underscores her intent to sever any perceived ties to her ex-husband's controversies. The 48-year-old actress, who has largely remained out of the public eye following her blacklisting in 2021, appears focused on reclaiming her narrative. Her post sparked speculation about a potential return to show business, as fans and industry insiders weighed whether the move signaled a broader comeback.
Huang's financial woes have intensified public scrutiny. Most recently, reports surfaced that he failed to meet rental obligations for a luxury duplex at The Westminster Terrace, resulting in a claim of HK$2.8 million. His legal troubles have also drawn attention to the pair's past financial activities, further complicating efforts to untangle Zhao's association with his business dealings.
Zhao's connections to high-profile figures in Chinese business have also garnered attention over the years, particularly her relationship with Alibaba founder Jack Ma. The two were once reported to have close ties, with Zhao and Huang investing in companies linked to Ma's business empire. These relationships fueled Zhao and Huang's rise as a power couple but later became a source of controversy during regulatory crackdowns on prominent entrepreneurs and their associates in China.
The exact nature of Zhao's current relationship with Ma is unclear, especially after her blacklisting in 2021, which many speculated was tied to her and Huang's investments and connections to influential figures.
