In the entertainment industry, even the smallest detail can be magnified into a heated discussion. In August 2025, Tian Xiwei unexpectedly found herself at the center of dating rumors—all because of a bowl of fried rice. Yet with a timely response and a clear attitude, she managed to dispel the speculation in a three-hour livestream while also fueling anticipation for her new drama Moonlit Reunion.
Her quick handling of the situation not only showcased the adaptability and professionalism of a rising actress but also invited reflection on the relationship between celebrity gossip and career development.
The Fried Rice Spark: Rumors Take Flight
On August 17, Tian Xiwei and fellow actor Lai Weiming coincidentally posted similar photos of fried rice on social media. Identical bowl patterns, ingredients, and tablecloths quickly sparked speculation, with the hashtag #TianXiweiLaiWeimingSameFriedRice trending online. Some netizens suggested the similarities hinted at romance, while others suspected it was a pre-release publicity stunt meant to divert attention from Tian’s upcoming drama Moonlit Reunion.
Swift Response: Clearing the Air via Livestream
As the speculation spread, Tian Xiwei addressed the matter head-on. On August 18—the very day her drama premiered—she went live to clarify the situation. She explained that the fried rice photos came from a group dinner in Qingdao with Lai Weiming and Wang Jiayi, organized as part of the crew’s gathering. The photos were simply taken from different angles and later shared by multiple attendees.
“Getting rumors just for eating with colleagues is ridiculous,” she said candidly, adding that she and Lai are simply friends, jokingly calling him a “buddy.” She also stated firmly, “If I were in a relationship, I’d announce it. Right now, I’m focused on my career.”
The straightforward clarification not only put an end to rumors but also shifted attention to her new role. During the livestream, Tian repeatedly mentioned her character “Wu Zhen,” released 108 promotional stills, and helped push the drama’s reservation count past five million. The focus quickly moved from gossip to anticipation for the show.
Public Reaction: Support and Skepticism
Most netizens and media outlets welcomed Tian Xiwei’s explanation, praising her direct and transparent approach. Local Qingdao users confirmed that “sea intestine rice” is a regional specialty, making the group dinner entirely plausible. Still, a portion of the online audience remained doubtful, pointing to the uncanny bowl patterns as “too much of a coincidence.” This split highlights how carefully the public scrutinizes celebrity rumors in today’s entertainment landscape.
Spotlight on Moonlit Reunion
At 6 p.m. on August 18, Moonlit Reunion premiered on Tencent Video. Riding the momentum of Tian Xiwei’s clarification, the show topped trending charts on release. Her portrayal of the feline spirit “Wu Zhen”—complete with golden cat eyes and a striking red robe—quickly went viral. Viewers praised the surprising contrast between her usual sweet-girl image and this darker, more complex role, a performance that underscored her range as an actress.
From Gossip to Reflection: Navigating Showbiz Challenges
Pre-release scandals are a recurring theme in the entertainment industry, often impacting both stars and their projects. Tian Xiwei’s response offers a valuable case study: by addressing rumors directly, presenting clear facts, and redirecting the narrative toward her work, she successfully minimized damage and boosted positive publicity.
Her statement that “romance will be announced, but for now I’m focused on my career” also revealed her determination and long-term planning. As a post-95 rising actress, Tian has already built a track record with dramas like New Life Begins and Almost Lovers. With Moonlit Reunion, she takes another step in broadening her acting portfolio.
While the “fried rice incident” may have been a small bump in the road, it highlighted Tian Xiwei’s composure and focus amid public scrutiny. More importantly, it reinforced her commitment to growth in a competitive industry—and set the stage for audiences to expect even more from her in the future.
