Zhao Liying has been invited to chair the main jury at the eighth Golden Rooster film project investment conference. Her studio announced the invitation in late October, Tuoi Tre reported, citing QQ. The role involves evaluating prospective films and identifying work from emerging creators that could benefit from further support.
A jury for films in development
The conference is part of the Golden Rooster ecosystem and focuses on filmmakers seeking to develop projects. Its main section assesses work at the project and investment stage. Tuoi Tre reported that Zhao, 39, is the first actor born in the 1980s to be invited to chair that section.
Zhao built her audience through dramas including The Journey of Flower, Princess Agents and The Story of Minglan. At the conference, she will see proposals from the other side of the selection process. The announced remit covers assessing ideas and helping identify opportunities for younger filmmakers.
Experience on both sides of the camera
The report points to Zhao’s work on The Legend of Shen Li, where she took on a production role while playing the lead. Her responsibilities included input on the script, assembling the team and coordinating production. Tuoi Tre also describes her involvement in film and television projects through her own company and production partnerships.
The invitation follows a quieter period for Zhao on set. Tuoi Tre reported that she took on no new project for about 15 months through October 2026. The studio announced the jury invitation, while the timing of her return to filming remained undecided, the report said.