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Chinese actress Vicki Zhao, once a top celebrity and business mogul, is now facing severe financial trouble as her shares in multiple companies have been frozen, leaving her with ownership of only one struggling television production company.

According to Chinese media outlet QQ, Zhao—famed as one of China's “Four Dan Actresses”—previously held stakes in several multi‑industry ventures with her then‑husband, Singaporean businessman Huang Youlong. By 2019, their combined fortune was estimated at 4.5 billion yuan (about US$625 million), earning her a spot on the Hurun China Rich List.

Her business decline follows persistent speculation that she was “banned” from China's entertainment industry after August 2021, when her films vanished from video platforms, her name was removed from award portals, and brands distanced themselves from her online.

At 49, Zhao has been noted in recent photos to look visibly weary, a stark contrast to her past vibrant image. She confirmed late last year that she and Huang had divorced years earlier, further highlighting the dramatic shift from her former wealth and influence.

Stephen Colbert's “The Late Show” will end next May, but his first new episode since the announcement is expected to draw extra attention. Monday's show will feature Sandra Oh and Dave Franco, with Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro appearing later in the week.

CBS attributed the cancellation to financial reasons amid declining late-night ratings and advertising revenue, though speculation has swirled about political motives given Colbert's frequent criticism of Donald Trump. Some insiders doubt a political link, noting CBS is keeping the show on air for ten more months, while others suspect Paramount's merger pressures and recent settlement with Trump may have played a role.

Colbert has spoken graciously about CBS despite the surprise timing, with analysts noting he likely wants to protect his 200 staffers and avoid burning bridges. Writers Guild leaders and some former CBS figures have questioned whether the decision was influenced by Trump-related negotiations, but CBS maintains it's purely business.

Reactions have been sharply divided: pro‑Trump outlets mocked the show's losses, while others view the cancellation as troubling for free satire. Trump celebrated on Truth Social, claiming credit and hinting Jimmy Kimmel might be next.

The move comes as advertisers shift away from late-night TV, raising questions about the future of shows like Kimmel's and Fallon's. For now, Colbert remains on air, and viewers will be watching closely for his trademark subtle jabs and commentary during the show's final months.