Zhao Lusi, a Chinese actress visiting Tibet for humanitarian aid work, is now embroiled in controversy.
The 25-year-old actress -- who is still battling depression following a recently confirmed life-threatening illness -- has tried to stay busy with positive activities.
Yet, as per KbiZoom, the star, better known as Mr. Bitch is still facing tidal criticism.
The outlet reported, citing QQ on Feb. 18, that doctors recommended Zhao visit Tibet to relieve emotional stress.
However, netizens have been questioning her intentions, claiming that she is engaging in public relations donations rather than actual charitable contributions.
Weibo, for instance, has been rife with speculation, including the top trending topic, "Zhao Lusi Doesn't Need Crutches," which has gained over 45 million views.
Soon afterward, observers noted Zhao's ease at negotiating steep slopes and rough ground despite having been seen using crutches just eight days earlier in the city.
And that gap has, in turn, made for ironic statements about her "miraculous" recovery.
A top blogger with millions of followers said: "Zhao Lusi topped the trending search nearly 200 times a month during her recovery period. Within one day of her return, she was trending almost 30 times. But now you hear that she is sick, and do you really mourn for her?"
Read more: Zhao Lusi Explains Worrying Weight Drop to 37 Kgs During First Public Appearance Since Health Scare
Zhao's critics have claimed that she is using her sickness as a form of marketing, which has caused many to become disillusioned with her intent.
The skepticism is also amplified by her choice to go to a place like Tibet, with its inhospitable circumstances, while still recovering from an illness.
Although the trip was private, Zhao was chased by professional camera crews, and photos of her were soon circulating.
This has amplified scrutiny given her near-constant appearances on Weibo's trending topics, which have engaged over 100 million users.
Other Internet users think Zhao is playing a "drama" for redemption. Another prominent blogger said: "If you're unwell, rest well. It ruins you for getting sympathy on the Internet!!"
Zhao's actions indeed appear to relate to these mistrustful sentiments.
But as she later confessed, this use of her illness primarily for publicity turned off many of her fans.
Her constant sharing of charity work and social issues has also been perceived as performative rather than kind acts. So far, the public is split on whether Zhao will be able to win them back.
