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Chinese actress Bai Lu has been embroiled in a widespread online debate due to remarks she made in Keep Running Season 14 (previously titled Running Man China, a spin-off from the hit South Korean variety show Running Man), which began airing in April 2026, becoming the biggest variety show controversy in recent times. It is also reported that the actress has been targeted by a malicious smear campaign from marketing accounts.
In the premiere episode of Keep Running 14, during the "Running Team vs. Teens in Times" sea relay race segment, Bai Lu made some remarks, following which she became the center of controversy.
It is reported that she voluntarily chose the banana boat activity — the least physically demanding option, which let her remain seated throughout and involved minimal exertion. In contrast, other guests, including He Jun Lin and Liu Yao Wen, completed more strenuous tasks such as swimming and rowing. Afterward, they candidly admitted on the transfer vehicle that they felt "quite tired."
Bai Lu, however, responded in a surprised tone, asking in return: "Do you really feel tired? I think it’s just the sun. It's not tiring at all." When the guests replied, "Everyone's segments are a bit different," she again questioned, "Really? Then what will you do in the name-tag ripping tonight?"
Other clips circulating online also show her teasing Zheng Kai for warming up before the name-tag ripping, calling it "kind of inexplicable" and saying "the 老人家 [polite term for old, elderly person] is too serious," and referring to Li Chen as "the elder with a fiery team spirit."
These remarks quickly sparked controversy. Many viewers felt that she was dismissing others' efforts, having chosen an easier activity herself, yet questioning others' fatigue. Others saw her remarks as lacking respect toward senior cast members, particularly in her use of terms like "old guy" and "inexplicable" to describe the traditions of the competitions.
As the controversy escalated, related topics rapidly climbed trending search lists. In response, the production team adjusted later edits to highlight Bai Lu's participation in more physically demanding segments, including a soccer match, and released behind-the-scenes footage showing her continuing to film despite an injury.
Bai Lu also addressed the issue publicly at a press event in Quanzhou on April 25, explaining that her remarks were intended to enhance the fun of the variety show. She added that Keep Running had taught her to "take every segment seriously."
Some viewers accepted the explanation, viewing it as a reflection of her straightforward personality; however, fans of the original Running Man still did not buy it, believing she had not truly understood the spirit of the show.
Then, a netizen, claiming to be a cameraman from the variety show, stepped forward to speak up for Bai Lu. At a time when editing in variety shows often easily sparks controversy, this cameraman — who has quietly captured moments of Bai Lu behind the scenes — used his words to highlight a version of her on set that many don't see. He shared photos of himself with Bai Lu on social media, along with moments from their collaboration.
He mentioned Bai Lu's easygoing nature. When the vehicle's jolting due to the bumpy road caused shots to come out blurry, she didn't complain at all. The cameraman also captured her in moments where she looked disheveled yet resilient, showcasing professionalism.
In an era where traction and popularity are often prioritized, respect and recognition from colleagues within the industry are arguably the most valuable assets for an artist. The cameraman's remarks not only helped ease some of the public misunderstandings but also allowed people to see the warm, sincere foundation of Bai Lu beyond the camera.
Following all the debate, on May 5, a rumor started circulating online that "Bai Lu is reportedly leaving Keep Running next year". Shortly after, the official Weibo account @KeepRunning made a post denying Bai Lu's departure.
Source: Sohu, Sina, Qianjiang Evening Post
