Actor Bạch Lộc faces a career crisis as her new drama “Mạc Ly” encounters starkly conflicting reception across platforms, while allegations of irregularities in her national artist title add to the controversy, according to multiple reports. The 28.1 million Tencent Video points for “Mạc Ly” contrast sharply with critics’ dismissal of its storytelling, as the actress navigates a turbulent period in her career.
Crisis and Controversy: The National Artist Title Scandal
Bạch Lộc’s reputation has suffered amid allegations of improper credentials for her 2024 national artist title, a distinction typically reserved for those with advanced academic qualifications. According to Tin tức 24h, the actress lacks a master’s degree in her field, a requirement for the III-level designation. The outlet also claims she bypassed the mandatory IV-level certification, raising questions about the approval process. “The public demands transparency,” the report states, citing netizens calling for an investigation into her credentials.
The controversy extends to her industry connections, with Tin tức 24h noting that her projects often receive disproportionate investment from Jiangsu Cultural Investment Group, a pattern critics argue undermines fair competition. “This isn’t just about one person—it’s about systemic issues in how artistic merit is evaluated,” a commenter wrote.
Mixed Reactions: From Tencent Success to Critical Reviews
Despite the backlash, “Mạc Ly” has achieved notable digital success. Tạp chí Saostar reports the drama surpassed 28.1 million points on Tencent Video, securing its place in the platform’s “Must-Watch” club. The show, which premiered on June 9, 2026, features Bạch Lộc as Diệp Ly, a character who navigates palace intrigue and revenge. “Its rapid pacing and high-stakes narrative have resonated with online audiences,” the outlet notes, citing a 1.866 Datawin score and daily viewership between 23-31 million.
However, traditional TV ratings tell a different story. Tạp chí Saostar reports a 0.4-0.45% rating on CCTV-8, attributed to its midday slot. Meanwhile, bazaarvietnam.vn offers a more nuanced take, praising the show’s “fast-paced storytelling” but criticizing its “predictable tropes.” The review highlights Bạch Lộc’s portrayal of Diệp Ly as “calculated and ruthless,” a departure from typical “good girl” archetypes in Chinese dramas.
The Human Element: Behind the Numbers
For fans, the divide between digital success and critical reception underscores the complexity of modern entertainment. “It’s frustrating when a show you love gets slammed for clichés,” one viewer wrote on Weibo. “But I get why some people are disappointed—this isn’t the same level of innovation as ‘Châu sinh như cố’ or ‘Trường nguyệt tẫn minh.'” The reference to her earlier hits highlights the high expectations placed on Bạch Lộc, who rose to fame with projects like “Châu sinh như cố” and “Trường nguyệt tẫn minh.”
Industry analysts note that the “Mạc Ly” controversy reflects broader tensions in the Chinese entertainment sector. “Artists are under pressure to deliver both commercial success and artistic integrity,” says a bazaarvietnam.vn contributor. “When one aspect falters, the backlash can be swift.”
What’s Next for Bạch Lộc?
The coming weeks will be critical for Bạch Lộc’s career. If the title investigation leads to revocation, it could have far-reaching implications for her industry standing. Meanwhile, the performance of “Mạc Ly” on streaming platforms may determine whether her creative team pivots toward digital-first strategies. As Tin tức 24h notes, “The public’s patience is wearing thin, but there’s still a chance to turn this around with the right moves.”
For now, the actress remains at the center of a storm that combines artistic criticism, industry scrutiny, and public sentiment. Whether she can navigate this crisis will define her next chapter.
Find more reporting in our Entertainment section.
