The real estate market in Beijing has always been a hot topic, and now, a familiar face from a beloved television series has entered the fray: Chi Chongrui, best known for his portrayal of Tang Sanzang (the monk) in the classic 1986 adaptation of “Journey to the West.” His involvement in the marketing of a luxury residential project near the Forbidden City has ignited a wave of online chatter and underscores the evolving and sometimes unexpected paths taken by public figures.
The promotional video features Chi, impeccably dressed in a suit, guiding potential buyers through the features of a high-end development located just a stone’s throw from the historic palace. The project boasts upscale amenities, including German and Italian imported fixtures and luxury club services, catering specifically to high-net-worth individuals.
The news quickly spread online, creating a buzz on social media platforms. Many viewers expressed amusement at the unexpected career pivot.
This venture marks a new chapter for Chi, whose personal life has also generated considerable attention. In 1990, he married Chen Lihua, a prominent businesswoman with a substantial fortune built through real estate investments in Hong Kong. Their relationship became a significant talking point, with Chen being 11 years his senior and a widow with children.
Chi retired from acting after their marriage, relocating to Hong Kong and supporting his wife in her business endeavors. Initially, the relationship faced scrutiny, with some labeling it as a story of a man “living off his wife.” Yet, the dynamic between them highlights a traditional approach to relationships. Chen addresses Chi as “Mr. Chi,” while he refers to her respectfully as “Chairwoman,” using formal language. Additionally, their mealtime etiquette, including waiting for the entire family to gather before eating, has drawn attention.
Chen’s will, made in 2021, has allocated a majority of her wealth to Chi, further solidifying his inheritance. In 2023, she maintained her position on the Hurun Rich List with a reported net worth of $8.1 billion, solidifying the foundation of Chi’s recent undertaking. He has already explored other ventures such as live-stream sales, with an emphasis on a Buddhist theme, including the selling of items such as sandalwood beads. Despite the obvious hype from products that turned out to be low-quality, he has adapted to changing markets. Now, he is marketing high-end real estate, seeking to utilize his public image in a new role.
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