Health challenges for Chinese actress Zhao Lusi have sparked concern among fans and media in China, who have reported she was hospitalized on December 18.

Zhao allegedly fell ill on the set of her upcoming series, "Almost Lovers," and was then quickly sent to an ER in Shanghai, according to reports.

The 26-year-old actress appeared fragile and unsteady and had to be helped to the waiting vehicle by witnesses.

In a now-deleted viral video shot from the hospital, Zhao appeared in a wheelchair with her head and mask-covered face next to her father and her management team.

Zhao's fainting, which local media attributed to exhaustion, reignited debate over her intense workload and her continuing battle with mental illness, according to the report.

Fears for her health have been exacerbated by suggestions she may be suffering from aphasia, a speech disorder.

A statement by her management team confirmed Zhao is experiencing health crisis and is undergoing treatment.

The actress has put all professional work on hold to pursue rehabilitation.

In a message released on Zhao's studio account, the latter wrote on December 19 that "Ms. Zhao Lusi has always been very invested in her work. Her health will be our primary focus in the future."

Images of Zhao, taken while being wheeled into the hospital and looking weak, had partially led to the notion of her requiring assistance.

The fans responded to social media, saying they stood by the star.

On December 28, Zhao's father released a message via her official fan club, saying that she is safe and on the mend.

He thanked fans for their overwhelming care and said he was hopeful that she would recover gradually.

Zhao has passed on updates on her recovery to a close friend, fellow actress Weixiao, whom she has asked to keep fans updated.

Weixiao made an emotional post that included a picture of Zhao, who is in a wheelchair, stating that she has started rehabilitation exercises to regain strength and her ability to speak.

Weixiao expressed hope for Zhao's recovery but said there should be social accountability over the series of events that led to the actress's health crisis.

Zhao Lusi (aka Rosy Zhao) gained prominence for dramas such as The Romance of Tiger and Rose (2020) and Hidden Love (2023).

She was also chosen as one of the torchbearers for the upcoming Paris Olympics in May 2024.

Fans look forward to updates on her situation but, in the meantime, have continued to support Zhao during this difficult time.