PS.Yu Menglong’s Death Sparks Outcry: Huang Zitao’s Bold Stand Against China’s “Toxic Drinking Culture” in Entertainment Industry 🇨🇳💔
The Chinese entertainment world has been shaken to its core following the sudden and tragic death of actor Yu Menglong, 37, whose mysterious fall from a building has ignited nationwide discussion and controversy. Once celebrated for his gentle image and rising career, Yu’s passing has now exposed a darker undercurrent that many in the industry have long whispered about — coercion, hidden rules, and the dangerous culture of forced drinking behind closed doors.
The Tragic Mystery of Yu Menglong’s Death
Yu Menglong’s death, reported earlier this month, left fans devastated and the industry stunned. Official statements have been inconsistent, and speculation continues to swirl online. According to a Weibo post released by Yu’s studio on September 16, allegedly quoting his mother, Yu’s death was “an accident caused by drinking.” But many netizens aren’t convinced — pointing to rumors that Yu had refused to comply with certain “unspoken rules” demanded by powerful figures in the entertainment world.
As condolences poured in from fans and fellow celebrities, the tragedy reignited a much deeper conversation — one that many have avoided for years: the toxic drinking culture that often plagues Chinese showbiz.
Huang Zitao’s Viral Statement Resurfaces
In the wake of the controversy, an old statement from Huang Zitao, the former EXO member turned actor and entrepreneur, has resurfaced and gone viral. In a past live broadcast, Huang had passionately condemned the widespread expectation that artists must drink excessively to maintain relationships or secure opportunities in the industry.
“If collaborations require drinking, then please leave. I don’t care who you are,” Huang declared firmly during his stream.
He explained that his company — L.TAO Entertainment — has a strict policy against business deals that rely on alcohol-fueled socializing, emphasizing dignity over compliance. His blunt honesty earned praise from fans but also drew sharp criticism from insiders who saw his words as a challenge to entrenched norms.
“They Think Artists Should Obey Everything”
Huang didn’t stop there. He recalled several disturbing incidents from his early years in entertainment, including a story of a female trainee who was coerced into drinking at a producer’s dinner in hopes of landing a project. When she refused, she was berated publicly and left in tears. Another young artist reportedly suffered stomach bleeding after being forced to drink beyond her limits.
“They think artists should obey everything,” Huang said bitterly. “I will never allow people under my company to sacrifice their dignity for a role or a deal.”
His words, once viewed as bold but isolated, now resonate more than ever in the wake of Yu Menglong’s mysterious death — a tragedy many suspect was fueled, directly or indirectly, by the same destructive culture Huang denounced.
Industry Under Scrutiny
Since the incident, Chinese social media has erupted with debate. The hashtag #YuMenglongIncident has trended across Weibo, drawing millions of comments questioning the industry’s silence and the lack of accountability. Others have begun sharing their own stories of similar coercion, describing a system where alcohol is used as both a tool of manipulation and a symbol of submission.
Some insiders quietly admit that the so-called “drinking banquets” are deeply rooted in industry networking, often leaving young stars — especially women — vulnerable.
“Dignity Over Deals” — A Call for Change
As China mourns the loss of Yu Menglong, a powerful question lingers: how many more must suffer before change truly comes?
Huang Zitao’s unwavering stance — “I’m not afraid of pressure. What I can’t accept is seeing young people being corrupted by dirty practices like this” — has reignited hope that more artists may begin to speak out.
Whether his defiance will spark reform or provoke backlash remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: Yu Menglong’s death has become more than a tragedy — it’s a mirror reflecting an industry in desperate need of self-reflection.
🕯️ May his story serve as a wake-up call — not just to mourn the fallen, but to protect those still standing.
