Chinese Actor Chi Zhongrui's Real Estate Endeavor

In mid-June, Chi Zhongrui was seen filming an advertisement in Beijing for a high-end residential project owned by his billionaire wife, Chen Lihua. This project, marketed as a luxury development near the Forbidden City, features units starting at 9.8 million yuan (US$1.4 million).

Chinese actor Chi Zhongrui. Photo from Chi's Weibo

Public Reaction and Online Debate

The phrase "Tang Sanzang selling houses" trended on Weibo, with netizens joking about Chi’s shift from a "devout Buddhist" to a "real estate agent." Despite his wife’s wealth, Chi's active participation in livestream sales has sparked discussions about their relationship dynamics.

Financial Speculations and Defenses

Reports of Chen Lihua's will, allocating parts of her 50 billion yuan fortune, have reignited discussions about Chi’s wealth. Defenders highlight their 35-year marriage as evidence of mutual respect.

Chinese actor Chi Zhongrui (second from R) and his wife, billionaire businesswoman Chen Lihua (C). Photo from Chi's Weibo

Background of the Couple

Chi, 73, comes from a family of Peking Opera performers, while Chen, 84, is the founder of Fuwah International Group, with a net worth estimated at US$3.8 billion in 2025.