Every year, as the Chinese Lunar New Year approaches, families across the country gather to celebrate Chuxi—the eve of the New Year. It is a night steeped in tradition, one marked by joy, reunion, and reflection. Among the highlights of this evening is the grand celebration party broadcasted by CCTV, an event that has become an integral part of the festival for millions of Chinese people. The show, with its dazzling performances, heartfelt stories, and cultural displays, is a spectacle that holds great significance in our collective memory.

Yet, as the years pass, the chatter surrounding this iconic event has taken on a concerning tone. Every year, the performances are dissected and discussed in countless online forums and social media platforms. However, it is becoming increasingly evident that the focus of these discussions has shifted. Instead of celebrating the creativity, talent, and artistry of the performers, an unsettling trend has emerged: an obsession with the physical appearance of actors and actresses, particularly their age and perceived “status.”

A recurring theme in these discussions is the fixation on female actresses’ ability to maintain a youthful appearance. Elder actresses who defy the passage of time and still “look young” are showered with praise, especially if their appearance is attributed to “natural” means rather than medical interventions. On the surface, these compliments may seem harmless, even encouraging. However, they carry with them an implicit judgment: that aging naturally is undesirable, and that a woman’s worth—whether as an actress or an individual—is tied to her ability to look youthful.

At the same time, actresses who “look their age” or show visible signs of aging are often criticized for not maintaining a “nice status.” These comments, whether overtly negative or framed in a backhanded manner, reveal a troubling bias. Aging, an inevitable and natural process, is treated as a flaw to be hidden, overcome, or judged. This pressure is not exclusive to women; male actors, too, are increasingly subjected to similar scrutiny, though the standards applied to them are often less severe.

In my opinion, this preoccupation with age in the entertainment industry—and in society at large—is a form of discrimination. Whether the comments are framed as praise or criticism, they reflect a deeply ingrained bias that equates a person’s value with their physical appearance and their ability to conform to societal standards of youthfulness.

This mindset is harmful on multiple levels.

1. It Devalues Talent and Contribution: When the discussion surrounding actors and actresses fixates on their appearance rather than their performance, it diminishes their hard work, talent, and artistic contributions. The essence of a performance lies in its ability to move and inspire the audience, not in the perceived youthfulness of the performer.
2. It Perpetuates Unrealistic Standards: By praising those who appear “ageless,” we reinforce the notion that aging is something to be avoided at all costs. This creates immense pressure, particularly for women, to conform to unattainable standards, often at the expense of their mental and physical well-being.
3. It Reflects Broader Societal Discrimination: The entertainment industry is often a mirror of societal attitudes. When we judge actors and actresses based on their age, we reinforce ageism in our broader culture, sending a message that people are only valuable when they are young.

As we celebrate Chuxi and the rich traditions that bring us together, it is worth reflecting on the values we uphold as a society. The CCTV celebration is not just a show; it is a cultural touchstone that unites us in joy, nostalgia, and hope for the future. Let us honor it by shifting our focus back to the artistry, creativity, and hard work that make this event so special.

We must also recognize that age is not a flaw but a testament to experience, wisdom, and resilience. Actors and actresses, like all of us, are human beings who age naturally. Their worth should not be measured by the absence of wrinkles or gray hair, but by their dedication to their craft and the joy they bring to their audiences.

As we step into a new year, let us resolve to celebrate people for who they are—not for how young or old they appear. Let us value talent, character, and humanity over superficial standards. And let us remember that the beauty of Chuxi lies not in perfection, but in togetherness, tradition, and the shared hope for a brighter future.

Happy Lunar New Year! May we all embrace the new year with kindness, acceptance, and an appreciation for the richness of life at every stage.