Fan Bingbing ready for showbiz comeback

After months of reports and speculation with regards to Chinese actress Fan Bingbing’s showbiz career following her tax evasion scandal, it seems that the 37-year-old will be making her official return to the entertainment industry after all.

On Tuesday (April 21), the actress stepped out on the red carpet at Chinese video streaming website, iQiyi’s ninth anniversary gala event.

Later that night, Bingbing posted a picture of herself on the red carpet on her Instagram account. In her caption, she shared more details about her outfit, naming the designer brands that she was clad in.

Her post was met with mixed reactions, with a number of Chinese netizens lambasting her decision to return to the limelight. Many chastised her for daring to “show your face again” after attempting to evade taxes.

However, there were a number of positive comments as well, with many celebrating her return. American actress Jessica Chastain also left a comment on the post, writing, “Beautiful,” along with a heart emoji. Bingbing later replied to Jessica’s comment with a simple, “Thanks love,” not forgetting to attach a heart emoji at the end of her reply.

Bingbing was announced as part of the cast of the Jessica-produced Hollywood spy film, 355, last year. The film boasts an international all-female starring cast. British director Simon Kinberg had confirmed earlier this month that all of the cast members who had walked the red carpet together last year are “more than interested” and have since “committed to" in appearing in the movie.

This marked the actress' first official public appearance in 10 months. She had previously been spotted on the streets of Beijing, China in casual wear, and even having a meal with friends. During the Chinese New Year holidays in February, she also posted a selfie on Instagram, wishing her fans a happy new year. However, she has shied from the limelight, which sparked rumours of a showbiz retirement.

Photos: Fan Bingbing/Instagram, Lupita Nyong’o/Instagram

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