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Huang Zitao (Chinese: 黄子韬; pinyin: Huáng Zǐtāo; born May 2, 1993), also known by his stage name Tao, is a Chinese rapper, singer, producer and actor. He is a former member of the South Korean-Chinese boy band Exo and its Chinese sub-unit, Exo-M. After leaving Exo, he made his solo debut in China in 2015 with the mini-album TAO, under the stage name Z.Tao. Huang made his acting debut in the romantic movie You Are My Sunshine, followed by TV series Negotiator and The Brightest Star in the Sky.

Key Information

Huang ranked 25th on Forbes China Celebrity 100 list in 2017,[1] 35th in 2019,[2] and 37th in 2020.[3]

Early life

[edit]

Huang Zitao was born in Qingdao, Shandong on May 2, 1993.[4] As a child, he undertook Wushu training and became a student athlete.[5] In late 2010 he was scouted by a representative from SM Entertainment at a talent show.[6]

Music career

[edit]

2011–2015: Exo and lawsuit against SM Entertainment

[edit]
Huang Zitao (Z.TAO) at the Fashion Kode 2014

On December 27, 2011, Huang was formally introduced as the third member of Exo (with the stage name Tao).[7]

In late 2013, Huang took part in filming for MBC's celebrity diving program Splash!, but withdrew due to injuries,[8] and the show was cancelled due to injuries to multiple other contestants.[9]

He featured in two songs from Zhou Mi's album Rewind, which he penned the rap lyrics to;[10] and appeared as a cast member of the Solomon Islands edition of the SBS reality television program Law of the Jungle in 2014.[11] He left the show early due to a foot injury on a coral reef during filming and other scheduled commitments.

In June 2015, Huang set up a Chinese agency, 黄子韬Z.TAO Studio.[12] On August 24, he filed a lawsuit against SM Entertainment to terminate his contract.[13] Huang claimed the 10-year contract had unjust terms and said he lacks freedom due to the long contract period.[14] However, the Supreme Court dismissed Huang's appeal on March 15, 2018. The exclusive contract between SM Entertainment and Huang was considered valid until his contract's conclusion in 2022.[15]

In China, SM Entertainment filed a lawsuit against Huang regarding his solo activities. Chinese courts ruled that Huang was entitled to use his name and image for solo activities in China, and dismissed the lawsuit.[16]

2015–present: Solo career and mainstream popularity

[edit]

On July 23, 2015, Huang made his solo debut with a digital EP titled TAO,[17] which sold 670,000 digital copies in its first week.[18] The album was followed up with a second EP, Z.TAO, which was released for free on August 19 with the title track "Crown".[19] The music video for "Crown" was presented in the style of a 7-minute short film, directed by Nick Lentz and featuring Jessica Gomes.[20] Huang performed the stunts and martial arts sequences for the action scenes in the music video.[21] Huang held his first solo concert Z.TAO Mini Concert at the Beijing Exhibition Center Theater on August 23, as part of a benefit concert for those affected by the Tianjin explosions.[22][23]

Huang Zitao (Z. Tao) at Is Blue Concert in Shanghai, June 15, 2019

On October 15, Huang released the single "Reluctantly", a ballad composed by himself and Andros Rodriguez.[24] At the 2015 Migu Music Awards, Huang won the "Best Stage Performance" award and performed the single.[25] As part of an endorsement deal with the game I'm the Sovereign, Huang composed and released the single "I'm the Sovereign".[26] The song topped China's Billboard chart for the week of December 5, 2015.[27]

On January 12, 2016, Huang won the "Most Influential Male Singer" award at the 2016 Mobile Video Festival (Miopai Awards).[28] He was later invited to perform as a headliner for the SoYoung 2016 Live Concert Tour on January 29, which featured young rising musicians in China.[29]

Huang's first album The Road was announced in March 2016. It was recorded partly in Los Angeles in collaboration with Nick Lentz.[30] The lead single "The Road" was released on April 22.[31] On May 1, Huang commenced a concert tour Z.Tao The Road Concert for the album in Nanjing[32] and released a music video for the single "Hello, Hello", featuring Wiz Khalifa.[33] Another single, "Adore" was released the same month and sold over 30,000 copies, receiving the platinum certification.[34] The Road was released on August 22 was sold with 8888 pieces limited edition. After one minute of pre-sale opening, the sale profit reached 500k rmb; and the album reached number one on the sale charts.[35] At the end of 2016, Huang won the Most Influential Male Singer award at the Tencent Star Awards.[36]

In April 2017, Huang was named Promotional Ambassador for the 17th Top Chinese Music Awards, where he also won the "All-Round Artist" award.[37] He embarked on his first Asia Tour, Z.Tao Promise Concert Tour which kick-start in Beijing on April 30; and also released a single of the same name.[38][39]

In 2018, Huang joined the dance-oriented variety show, Street Dance of China.[40] It was also announced that Huang would be the head producer and MC on the Chinese version of Produce 101.[41] The same year, Huang embarked on his fourth concert tour, Z.Tao 2018 IS GOØD Concert Tour.[42]

Artistry and musical style

[edit]
I'm the Sovereign
"I'm the Sovereign" combines rap, EDM, and Chinese musical instruments.
Problems playing this file? See media help.

Following his departure from Exo and return to China, Huang stated that he made a decision to pursue his career in the ailing Chinese music industry, expressing a desire to continue as an artist with the goal of seeing C-Pop receive global recognition.[43][44] He is involved in songwriting and composition, drawing inspiration from his experiences.[45][46]

Although he is primarily a rapper, he has also performed Mandopop ballad songs. His music combines elements of hip hop, EDM, and Chinese musical instruments.[47] He cites Jay Chou as his musical inspiration, having listened to his music growing up.[48]

Acting career

[edit]

Huang made his film debut in romance film You Are My Sunshine alongside Huang Xiaoming and Yang Mi. The film was released on May 1, 2015.[49]

In 2016, Huang starred in the action comedy Railroad Tigers directed by Ding Sheng, alongside Jackie Chan.[50]

In 2017, Huang starred in the martial arts film The Game Changer,[51] directed by Gao Xixi,[52] as well as the romantic thriller Edge of Innocence. The same year, he played the monkey king in the web drama A Chinese Odyssey: Love You A Million Years, adapted from the film A Chinese Odyssey.[53] The series garnered over 5 billion views online during its run.[54] In November, he was announced as one of the two leads in action drama Forward Forever alongside Jackson Yi.[55][56]

In 2018, Huang starred in Negotiator, a spin-off of the 2016 hit drama The Interpreter.[57] The same year, he was cast in the youth period drama The Files of Teenagers in the Concession.[58]

In 2019, he acted as a Chinese pop star in the music romance youth drama The Brightest Star in the Sky.[59]

Other activities

[edit]

Endorsements and brand ambassadorship

[edit]
Huang Zitao (Z.Tao) at Is Blue Concert in Shanghai, June 15, 2019

In June 2017, Huang collaborated with Jonathan Anderson, Loewe's creative director, on the "Fire of Youth" campaign,[60] becoming the first Asian artist invited to collaborate with LOEWE.[61]

In July 2017, Hanhoo appointed Huang as their Brand Ambassador.[62] The brand later partially sponsored The Brightest Star in the Sky, a hit drama of Huang with product placement in the drama.[63]

In September 2017, Huang was named Yves Saint Laurent's beauty ambassador and participated in the second season of YSL's web series Before the Light.[64][65]

Shenwu3, a turn-based MMORPG game by Duoyi Network which is the 4th biggest game company in China, has announced Huang as their brand ambassador.[66] They collaborated further and Huang released a song called "Silently(默默)" under the branding of Shenwu3 in July 2018.[67]

In January 2018, Huang began promoting a China phone brand, Sugar Phone, and attended the press conference for Sugar Phone S11.[68] In April 2018, Sugar Phone supported Huang's IS GOØD Concert Tour as the main sponsor.[69]

Huang has also been appointed as brand ambassador for YSL Eyewars in January 2018.[70]

Jif Jaf Kraft,[71] Tencent Weishi Application[72] and Xiao Zhu home rental application[73] have also appointed Huang as their first brand ambassadors respectively in first half of 2018. In second half of the year, Huang has endorsed KFC,[74] EVISU,[75] Tuborg,[76] Skechers,[77] and Baidu mobile application,[78] as their brand ambassador.

In September 2018, Huang worked on the Chinese version of Stay Open, a promotional song for Tuborg originally released by Diplo and MØ.[79]

Sephora launched their first ad campaign in China with Huang as their brand ambassador in September 2018.[80]

In August 2019, Huang also endorsed Hershey's[81] and Nescafe Dolce Gusto[82] as their brand ambassador. Kappa headlined Huang as their brand ambassador for the campaign "I make my own trend" in the same month.[83]

Lacoste appointed Huang as the company's first brand ambassador for Asia Pacific region and launched "Crocodile Inside" campaign in September 2019.[84] In 2021, Huang cut ties with Lacoste because the company had not issued a global statement affirming that they were not boycotting Xinjiang cotton.[85][86]

Businesses

[edit]

On July 17, 2018, Huang established his own agency called L.TAO Entertainment.[87] Apart from managing Huang's own work, L.TAO has also signed other artists including Xu Yiyang, a former trainee of SM Entertainment.[88]

Huang has expanded his business further by opening a restaurant called "Hao Shi"[89] and an architecture and design company called L.TAO Architecture and Design[90] in June 2019.

Domyway

[edit]

In May 2025, Hunag launched a brand of sanitary pads called "Domyway" in response to a scandal in China, which found some companies were repackaging defective sanitary pads discarded by well known brands.[91][92]

According to Hunag, Domyway sanitary pads are produced in a factory by fully automated production lines, which can produce up to 1200 pads a minute[93]. The pads feature a QR code on the packaging which consumers can scan to track and view the production process.[94] The first batch of Domyway sanitary pads sold out in 30 minutes[95].

Initial complaints were made by consumers stating that the sanitary pads contained 'black specks.' Following these complaints Hunag responded in an online statement that "Some protruding fibers were scorched by heat during manufacturing, resulting in black specks" and that according to the "industry’s standard tolerance for such imperfections" the pads were safe to use.[96]

Z.TAO's Man

[edit]

Z.TAO's Man, a comic and 2D animation character that represents many elements of Huang, was launched in April 2019. Z.TAO's Man is a superhero character whose power is C-pop, the music genre Huang has been promoting and pursuing since the beginning of his solo debut.[97] Huang has collaborated with SunMei Group which is a hospitality business group that owns Thank U hotel chain to create Z.TAO's Man.[98]

Its weekly episodes are released on Sina Weibo's comic platform and a 2D animation is set to release.[citation needed]

Personal life

[edit]

Marriage

[edit]

In May 2020, Huang joined Produce Camp 2020 as a mentor, while Xu Yiyang, an artist signed to his company, participated as a contestant. Shortly after, they sparked dating rumors, though they did not confirm their relationship until July 14, 2024.[99] The couple announced their engagement on August 16 and their marriage on December 2 of the same year.[100][101]

Discography

[edit]
Main article: Z.Tao discography
See also: Exo discography
  • The Road (2016)

Songwriting

[edit]
Year Song Album Lyrics Music
2014 "Rewind" (Chinese Version)[102] Rewind Green tickY (with Zhou Mi, Zhou Weijie)
"Love Tonight"[102] Green tickY (with Zhou Mi)
2015 "T.A.O"[103] T.A.O Green tickY (with Chen Hongyu) Green tickY
"One Heart"[103] Green tickY (with Dai Yuedong)
"Yesterday"[103] Green tickY
"M.O.M"[104] The Road Green tickY Green tickY
"Crown (皇冠)"[105] Z.TAO Green tickY (with Osamu)
"Cinderella Girl"[105] Green tickY Green tickY (with Palace Court)
"Feel Awake"[105]
"Alone"[105] Green tickY Green tickY
"Intro (Vox Up)"[106] N/a Green tickY Green tickY
"Reluctantly (舍不得)"[107] The Road Green tickY Green tickY
"I'm the Sovereign(我是大主宰)"[108] Green tickY (with Wang Yunyun) Green tickY (with Palace Court)
2016 "The Road"[109] Green tickY Green tickY
"Underground King"[110] Green tickY Green tickY
"Hello, Hello"[110] Green tickY (with Daryl K, Kenn Miel, Wiz Khalifa)
"Adore"[111] Green tickY (with Daryl K, Andie Sandoval) Green tickY (with DarylK, Andie Sandoval, Calvin C)
"Mystery Girl"[112] Green tickY Green tickY
"19(十九岁)"[113] Green tickY (with Wang Yunyun)
"Black White (AB)"[114] Green tickY Green tickY
2017 "New Day"[115] Green tickY Green tickY
"Promise"[116] N/a Green tickY Green tickY
"Collateral Love"[117] Green tickY Green tickY
"Uncover(揭穿)"[118] Green tickY Green tickY
"Still in Time(還來得及)"[119] Green tickY Green tickY
"You(想成为你)"[120] Green tickY (with Wang Yunyun) Green tickY
2018 "Beggar"[121] Green tickY Green tickY
"Hater"[122] Green tickY Green tickY
"Misunderstand"[123] Green tickY Green tickY
"Silently(默默)"[124] Green tickY
"Stay Open"[125] Green tickY Green tickY
"KOC"[126] Green tickY Green tickY
"Break Up (分手不分離)"[127] Green tickY Green tickY
2019 "Single (单身)"[128] Green tickY Green tickY
"Once Beautiful (好不好)"[129] Green tickY Green tickY
"NPNG (不劳不获)"[130] Art is Blue Green tickY (with GAI) Green tickY (with GAI)
"One (你也会像我一样)"[131] Green tickY Green tickY
"Fault (错)"[132] Music is Blue Green tickY Green tickY
"AI"[132] Green tickY Green tickY
"The Legendary Man (带风的少年)"[133]
"The Best of Us (最好的我们)"[132] Green tickY Green tickY
2020 "Wish (心愿)"[134] Green tickY Green tickY
"Ice Cream (冰激凌)"[135] Green tickY Green tickY
"The Happiest Moment (最开心的瞬间)"[136] Green tickY Green tickY
"Attack (抨击)" [137] Green tickY Green tickY
"Black Card ( 黑卡)" Green tickY (with GAI) Green tickY (with GAI)
2021 “She and You (她与你)”
“Ending (后果)”

Filmography

[edit]

Film

[edit]
Year English title Chinese title Role Notes
2015 You Are My Sunshine 何以笙箫默 William
2016 Railroad Tigers 铁道飞虎 Da Hai
2017 The Game Changer 游戏规则 Fang Jie
Edge of Innocence 夏天十九岁的肖像 Kang Qiao
2022 Moon Man 独行月球 Huang Zitao

Television series

[edit]
Year English title Chinese title Role Notes
2015 Exo Next Door N/a fictional version of himself
2017 A Chinese Odyssey: Love You A Million Years 大话西游之爱你一万年 Zhi Zunbao Web series
2018 Negotiator 谈判官 Xie Xiaofei
2019 The Brightest Star in the Sky 夜空中最闪亮的星 Zheng Boxu
Hot Blooded Youth 租界少年热血档案 Wu Qian
2020 Forward Forever 热血同行 Chong Liming
2022 Legally Romance 才不要和老板谈恋爱 Lu Xun
2023 New Vanity Fair 春日暖阳 Song Yang
Loving You 甜蜜的你 Ke Mi

Variety show

[edit]
Year English title Chinese title Role Notes
2015–2016 Charming Daddy 闪亮的爸爸 Cast member [138]
2016 Law of The Jungle 我们的法则
Takes a Real Man 真正男子汉 [139]
2018 Street Dance of China 这就是街舞
Produce 101 创造101 Presenter
2019 The Protectors 小小的追球 Cast member [140]
2020 Produce Camp 2020 創造營2020 Mentor [141]
Rap For Youth 说唱新时代 Rap manager [142]

Music videos

[edit]
Title Year
"Rewind" Zhou Mi (Feat. ZTao) (Chinese Version) 2014
Zhang Liyin's "Agape"[143] (Feat. with Victoria)
Zhang Liyin's "Not Alone"[143] (Feat. with Victoria)
"Do You Know" (Remake; Jo Sung-mo)
"T.A.O" 2015
"Crown (皇冠)"
"Reluctantly (舍不得)"
"I'm the Sovereign(我是大主宰)"
"The Road" 2016
"Hello Hello" (feat. Wiz Khalifa)
"Black White (AB)"
"Beggar" 2018
"Stay Open" (with Diplo&M∅)
"AI" 2019

Concerts and tours

[edit]

Headliner

[edit]
  • Z.Tao Mini Concert Tour (2015)
  • Z.Tao The Road Concert (2016)
  • Z.Tao Promise Concert Tour (2017)
  • Z.Tao 2018 Is GoØd Concert Tour (2018)
  • Z.Tao 2019 Is Blue Concert (2019)[citation needed]

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Award Category Nominated work Result Ref.
2015 Migu Music Awards Best Stage Performance N/a Won [25]
2016 Mobile Video Festival Most Influential Male Singer N/a Won [28]
Tencent Video Star Awards N/a Won [144]
Weibo Night Awards Most Popular Singer N/a Won [145]
2017 The 5th V Chart Awards All-Round Artist of the Year N/a Won [146]
17th Top Chinese Music Awards N/a Won [147]
Asian Music Gala Top 10 Songs "New Day" Won [148]
2018 Baidu Baike All-Round Artist of the Year N/a Won
2019 China Music Awards Asian Influential Power Male Singer N/a Won [149]
Versatile Artist of the Year N/a Won
Golden Bud - The Fourth Network Film And Television Festival Best Actor The Brightest Star in the Sky, Hot Blooded Youth Nominated [150]
2020 The 29th Huading Awards Best Actor in a Television Series Hot Blooded Youth Nominated [151]
7th The Actors of China Awards Best Actor (Web series) Forward Forever Nominated [152]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Huang Zitao

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Huang Zitao (Chinese: 黄子韬; born May 2, 1993), professionally known as Z.Tao, is a Chinese singer, rapper, songwriter, actor, and businessman. He rose to prominence as a member of the South Korean boy band EXO and its subgroup EXO-M from 2012 to 2015, contributing as a rapper and main dancer trained in wushu. In 2015, Zitao terminated his contract with SM Entertainment, citing the agency's failure to provide adequate medical care after he tore ankle ligaments during a basketball filming incident, which led to a lawsuit against the company. Following his departure, he established a solo career in mainland China, releasing self-composed albums and starring in films such as You Are My Sunshine (2015), while amassing significant wealth through inheritance from his father's real estate and steel enterprises, estimated at over US$3 billion. His professional trajectory has included notable achievements like awards for influential male singer but has also been punctuated by controversies, including product quality issues with branded sanitary pads and disputes over promotional giveaways in 2025.

Early life

Family background and upbringing

Huang Zitao was born on May 2, 1993, in , Province, . His father, Huang Zhongdong, was a prominent businessman who amassed significant wealth through various enterprises, including founding an entertainment company to support his son's career. Huang Zhongdong, who died in 2020 at age 52, was once listed among 's richest individuals, with reports estimating his estate's value in the billions of yuan. Despite the family's affluence, Huang Zitao has stated that he was unaware of his father's status until reaching adulthood, which contributed to a grounded upbringing shielded from overt displays of wealth. This approach by his parents emphasized discipline over indulgence; for instance, Huang Zhongdong enrolled his son in wushu training during childhood to address his mischievous behavior, fostering early discipline and physical skill development. Huang Zitao's formative years in thus balanced familial business influences with personal growth through structured activities, setting the stage for his interests in performance and athletics without the immediate privileges of inherited prominence.

Martial arts training and early interests

Huang Zitao commenced intensive wushu training at the age of five, developing proficiency through disciplined practice that positioned him as a . This early regimen emphasized physical discipline and technical skill in forms, contributing to his later performance capabilities in coordinated movement and stage presence. He participated in multiple wushu competitions, including local championships in Qingdao and broader international tournaments, where he secured several awards for his achievements. These experiences honed his competitive edge and resilience, with documented successes in youth-level events underscoring the rigor of his pre-teen training. Beyond martial arts, Zitao pursued hobbies in dance and rap, drawing inspiration from hip-hop culture prevalent in urban Chinese youth scenes during the early 2000s. He earned the Top Rap Award at the Beijing 3rd Annual College Street Jam, demonstrating emergent lyrical and rhythmic skills that foreshadowed his entertainment pivot. In late , at age 17, Zitao auditioned for SM Entertainment's global casting system in , securing first place and initiating his shift toward professional preparation, though specifics of post-audition training occurred under agency oversight. This opportunity marked the culmination of his foundational interests, channeling physical and performative talents into structured career development.

Music career

Formation and time with EXO (2011–2015)

Huang Zitao joined S.M. Entertainment in early 2011 following a competitive audition process, undergoing a period of less than one year before being selected for the agency's new boy group project. On December 27, 2011, he was publicly introduced as the third revealed member of , adopting the stage name and positioned within the group's Chinese subunit, EXO-M, which targeted Mandarin-speaking audiences in . EXO was structured as a 12-member ensemble divided into EXO-K (Korean-language subunit for the domestic market) and EXO-M (Mandarin-language subunit for expansion into ), with parallel releases and joint performances to maximize regional appeal. EXO-M made its debut on April 9, 2012, releasing the MAMA, which included the title track "Mama" performed in Mandarin; the subunit's version topped several music charts shortly after launch, reflecting initial success in its despite limited crossover penetration elsewhere. Within EXO-M, Huang served as lead rapper, lead dancer, and sub-vocalist, leveraging his background in wushu (Chinese martial arts) for specialized performance elements such as stunts and dynamic choreography sequences that highlighted physical agility. The subunit's early activities emphasized promotional events, fan meetings, and regional tours in , contrasting with EXO-K's stronger charting performance on Korean platforms like and Gaon, where the Korean "Mama" version achieved moderate but broader international notice. In , as a full group gained momentum with the release of the repackaged album XOXO (Growl) on July 30, featuring the hit single "Growl," which Huang contributed to through rap verses and execution of the synchronized dance routines during live stages and music shows. -M continued parallel Mandarin adaptations and China-focused promotions, including arena tours and television appearances tailored to local broadcasters, though the subunit's output remained secondary to unified efforts, with -M versions often underperforming in global sales metrics compared to -K counterparts. During this period, Huang participated in group variety content like EXO's Showtime (filmed 2013–2014), where rigorous schedules contributed to physical strain, including minor injuries from high-intensity martial arts-infused segments. By mid-2013, underlying group dynamics surfaced amid expanding schedules, with -M members facing logistical challenges from cross-border travel and divergent market priorities; Huang later referenced overwork and inadequate recovery time in public statements, though these issues did not immediately halt his involvement in releases like Miracles in December (-M version, December 2013). The subunit's China-centric focus yielded dedicated fanbases but highlighted disparities, as full promotions increasingly prioritized Seoul-based activities, limiting EXO-M's independent momentum.

Lawsuit against SM Entertainment and departure (2015)

In April 2014, Huang sustained a injury during rehearsals, prompting a temporary hiatus from activities to recover in . His father publicly intervened in April 2015 via a letter, citing 's inadequate protection of Huang's health and demanding his return to for recovery and family support. Huang established his own management company, Z.TAO Studio, in in June 2015, signaling intent to pursue independent activities. On August 24, 2015, he filed a in a Chinese seeking to nullify his exclusive contract with , alleging unfair terms including a 10-year duration, disproportionate profit distribution favoring the agency, and neglect of his physical and amid grueling schedules. SM Entertainment countered by filing suits in both and , claiming and demanding repayment of training and advance costs, estimated in the millions. Huang immediately relocated full-time to post-filing, ceasing EXO participation and launching solo music and acting projects under his new entity, prioritizing autonomy over continued group obligations. A court ruled in January 2016 that Huang must repay SM's advances plus interest for contract violation, but subsequent proceedings in December 2016 dismissed SM's broader claims against Huang's Chinese collaborators for insufficient evidence, effectively enabling his independent career in without further legal hindrance there. No public details emerged on final financial resolutions, and South Korean courts later upheld the contract's validity in 2017–2018, though Huang's activities remained -based. This outcome underscored jurisdictional divergences, with Chinese rulings facilitating Huang's self-directed path amid documented health and contractual grievances.

Solo career establishment and evolution (2015–present)


Huang Zitao launched his solo career immediately after leaving EXO by founding Huang Z.TAO Studio and releasing the digital EP T.A.O. on July 23, 2015, which included tracks emphasizing R&B and rap fusion tailored for the Chinese audience. This debut marked his pivot to independent production and Chinese-market focus, with the EP achieving rapid digital distribution success domestically. Key tracks like "R&B Superstar" showcased his vocal range and self-production involvement, contributing to early solo momentum. Subsequent releases reinforced his adaptation to Chinese-language content, including the 2016 studio album The Road, which expanded his discography with original compositions blending hip-hop and pop elements. Huang increasingly took on producer duties for his projects, collaborating with domestic artists such as on singles like "Min Gan (LH x Z.TAO)" in 2020, which gained traction on Chinese platforms. The 2018 album Beggar further highlighted his songwriting and production evolution, maintaining chart presence in through QQ Music and similar services. Huang's visibility surged via judging roles on programs like , where his mentorship and critiques of trainees amplified his industry influence and fanbase engagement in idol training contexts. This exposure correlated with sustained streaming performance on domestic platforms, prioritizing local appeal over global circuits. Recent output includes the "30's Club" single series across 2023–2024 and 2025 releases such as "爱错" and "2025DISS Freestyle," reflecting ongoing and experimentation. Overall, his trajectory emphasizes China-centric commercial viability, with limited post-EXO international crossover despite benchmark domestic metrics like monthly listeners exceeding 80,000 on global trackers.

Artistry

Musical style and influences

Huang Zitao's musical style centers on Mandarin rap, frequently blended with R&B and hip-hop elements, reflecting his self-identified preferences for these genres. His vocal delivery features a contrast between higher-pitched in melodic sections and lower-toned rap verses, emphasizing rhythmic flow and lyrical . This approach marks a departure from the synchronized, polished structures of his era toward more individualistic expression in solo outputs, prioritizing personal narrative over group harmony. Lyrically, Huang's work often conveys emotional depth through themes of , relationships, and resilience, delivered with a mix of vulnerability and assertive bravado typical of rap traditions. He draws primary inspiration from Taiwanese artist , whose music shaped his early listening habits and contributed to a fusion of pop sensibilities with hip-hop aggression in his compositions. Additional influences stem from broader Chinese pop and hip-hop scenes, enabling a culturally rooted sound that integrates Eastern melodic motifs with Western rhythmic techniques. In live performances, Huang incorporates sequences, leveraging his wushu expertise to add dynamic physicality and thematic motifs of discipline and power, enhancing the visual of his . This element underscores a performance style that combines auditory intensity with choreographed athleticism, distinguishing his stage presence from conventional vocal-focused acts.

Production and songwriting approach

Huang Zitao has taken an active role in songwriting and production since launching his solo career in 2015, crediting himself as , , or on tracks from albums like The Road (2016) and EPs such as T.A.O. His process emphasizes drawing from personal experiences to craft narratives, often reflecting on life events to infuse with emotional depth and thematic substance, including perseverance amid career transitions and romantic introspection. In a 2016 interview, he explained, "I tend to rely on my past and personal experiences to inspire me. I’ll remember and reflect on the instances that have happened and include them in , as well as to add substance to the flow and the melody," noting that final products emerge gradually rather than instantly. After exiting , Zitao established Huang Z.TAO Studio, enabling independent oversight of recordings that blend hip-hop and EDM with traditional Chinese instrumentation, such as in select tracks evoking cultural motifs through integrated sounds like the or . A representative example is "Black White (AB)" from , where he is credited as both writer and producer via his studio, highlighting a shift toward self-directed creative control. While hands-on, Zitao's approach prioritizes collaborative input over solitary authorship, routinely acknowledging co-producers like Calvin C. and Daryl K. in credits, which underscores in achieving polished results rather than feats. His output remains measured—limited to one full studio album and four EPs by 2020—contrasting with higher-volume peers, attributable to a deliberate focus on refining personal expression amid acting and commitments.

Acting career

Initial roles and breakthrough (2015–2018)

Huang Zitao made his acting debut in the romance film , released on May 1, 2015, where he portrayed a supporting role alongside and . The project served as an initial foray into cinema, capitalizing on his visibility as a former member to secure the opportunity shortly after his 2015 departure from the group. Early performances drew mixed feedback, with critics noting limitations in emotional depth typical of idol-to-actor transitions, though his established fanbase contributed to audience interest. In 2016, he transitioned to action roles in , directed by Ding Sheng, playing Da Hai, an amateur tailor recruited into a sabotage mission against Japanese forces during , co-starring with . His wushu expertise facilitated participation in fight sequences, aligning with the film's emphasis on ensemble physicality over nuanced dialogue, though reviews described the cast's portrayals as broadly inexperienced. The movie garnered a 5.8/10 IMDb rating, reflecting modest critical and commercial reception amid reliance on star power and patriotic themes. Huang continued with supporting parts in 2017's The Game Changer as Fang Jie and Edge of Innocence as Kang Qiao, blending action and thriller elements to build versatility. His breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the television series Negotiator, starring as the spoiled heir Xie Xiaofei opposite Yang Mi in a 43-episode business-romance drama. The show topped Hunan TV's Golden Eagle ratings and ranked second among 2018's most popular dramas per Entgroup data, signaling enhanced acting proficiency and wider recognition beyond idol fame.

Expansion into leading roles (2019–present)

In 2019, Huang Zitao transitioned to leading roles in television series, leveraging his martial arts background in the action-drama Hot-Blooded Youth, where he portrayed a central character in a story set amid 1930s Shanghai's turbulent concessions era, involving youth rebellion and combat sequences. The series highlighted his physical prowess, drawing on his taekwondo expertise for fight choreography that contributed to its appeal among audiences favoring historical action narratives. Concurrently, he starred as a debuting C-pop idol in The Brightest Star in the Sky, a contemporary drama exploring fame's pressures, earning a nomination for Best Actor at the Golden Bud - The Fourth Network Film And Television Festival for his performances across both projects. These roles marked a shift from supporting parts, with Huang's involvement correlating to boosted online buzz, though specific viewership metrics for the series remain tied to broader platform data without isolated attribution. Subsequent projects expanded his range into romance and intrigue genres. In 2020's Forward Forever, Huang led as Chong Liming in a youth-oriented blending camaraderie and challenges, directed by established figures in Chinese TV production. By 2022, Legally Romance featured him as , a domineering boss in a rom-com, attempting to showcase emotional depth amid comedic tensions. This was followed in 2023 by New Vanity Fair, where he played Song Yang in a 40-episode series delving into corporate rivalries and personal ambitions, and My Precious, portraying Shen Mi in a narrative emphasizing relational dynamics and growth. These works, often under directors with track records in mainstream C-dramas, demonstrated genre versatility from action to modern slice-of-life, though public discourse noted persistent challenges in differentiating from his off-screen persona. Critical reception has been mixed, with nominations like the 2019 Golden Bud underscoring potential, yet frequent online critiques highlight perceived limitations in emotional conveyance and a tendency toward in energetic, youthful leads despite Huang reaching age 32 by 2025. Fan forums and reviews have pointed to instances where his delivery mirrors personal stylistic traits—such as emphatic rapping inflections—over character-specific nuance, as seen in backlash to New Vanity Fair for "poor skills" amid promotional efforts. No major peer-reviewed analyses exist, but aggregates reflect a divide: for physicality in action sequences versus calls for refined dramatic range, with no confirmed wins in categories post-2019 to counterbalance the scrutiny. This feedback loop, amplified by platforms like , underscores ongoing evolution in his portfolio amid China's competitive idol-to-actor pipeline.

Other ventures

Endorsements and commercial deals

Huang Zitao has secured numerous endorsement contracts with international and domestic brands targeting the Chinese market, particularly following his departure from and shift toward solo activities in . His first major solo deal came in June for the Chao Shen Zhan Dui, reportedly guaranteeing at least 10 million yuan (approximately 1.6 million USD at the time), marking a significant early financial success amid his transition from group activities. This deal underscored his appeal to gaming audiences, a key demographic in , and set a precedent for high-value partnerships leveraging his youthful image and background. Subsequent endorsements included promotional work for men's fragrance in August 2017, aligning with his masculine persona. In 2018, he became brand ambassador for China, fronting their first major ad campaign and initiatives to engage young beauty consumers. That year also saw ambassadorships for apparel and Sugar S20 smartphones, emphasizing and tech sectors popular among urban youth. By 2019, partnerships expanded to sportswear, with a campaign titled "I Make My Own Trend" promoting individual style, and endorsements for Hershey's and , broadening into consumer goods. These deals reflect a deliberate strategy post-2015 to capitalize on China's preferences, prioritizing brands with strong youth-oriented marketing in , , and tech—sectors where Huang's celebrity status drives visibility and sales among and Gen Z. While specific contract values beyond the 2015 game deal remain undisclosed, such partnerships have contributed to his estimated commercial influence, though critics have occasionally noted risks of overexposure diluting brand exclusivity in saturated celebrity markets. No verified data indicates deals with or , despite occasional speculation.

Business enterprises and investments

In 2016, Huang Zitao established Longtao Entertainment Culture Co., Ltd. (L.TAO Entertainment), a firm focused on artist management, music production, and related activities, with a registered capital of 4.5 million RMB. The company has managed Huang's solo career while signing other artists, including Xu Yiyang and Ma Zehan. Huang expanded into e-sports investments in March 2021 by partnering with GK Gaming, a Chinese organization competing in titles like , and assuming the role of co-CEO. This move aligned with his interest in gaming culture, though operational details of his involvement remain limited to strategic oversight. Leveraging inherited from his family's shipping conglomerate, estimated at billions of USD following his father's death in , Huang has funded such high-risk sectors. In 2025, Huang launched Domyway, a brand producing sanitary pads, investing hundreds of millions of RMB after public outrage over industry hygiene scandals he personally investigated. The venture emphasized in-house for , with initial live-stream sales generating over US$3 million in under 30 minutes via platforms like Douyin. Huang's promotional activities faced backlash in February 2025 over an giveaway, criticized for misleading and high costs exceeding millions of RMB, drawing accusations of hype-driven . On October 13, 2025, the Longgang District People's Court in ordered a three-year freeze on L.TAO Entertainment's equity until October 12, 2028, amid undisclosed disputes, signaling potential financial or contractual liabilities in his core enterprise.

Media appearances and hosting

Huang Zitao has hosted and mentored on multiple Chinese survival and reality programs, leveraging his entertainment experience to guide trainees. In 2018, he served as the main host (MC) and executive producer for on , a competition to form a temporary from 100 contestants, where he emphasized during evaluations, drawing from his own trainee background. He reprised similar roles in (also known as Chuang 2020), presenting the show and judging alongside Luhan, , and , with the program concluding by debuting the boy group on May 30, 2020. These appearances showcased his authoritative style, including instances where he admonished underperforming trainees for lacking commitment. Beyond survival formats, Zitao has participated in variety shows focusing on lifestyle and challenges. He featured in It Takes a Real Man in 2019, a military-themed program testing celebrities' endurance, where his physical prowess from martial arts training was highlighted. In September 2023, he joined the cast of A Perfect Match on Zhejiang Satellite TV and iQiyi, pairing with dancer Xu Yiyang in a dating-style format that explored compatibility through activities. Such programs often face scrutiny for scripted elements undermining authenticity, as participants follow producer-directed narratives rather than unfiltered interactions, a common critique in Chinese reality TV where high production values prioritize entertainment over spontaneity. In 2025, Zitao co-starred with Xu Yiyang—his spouse since December 2024—in Serendipitous Journeys on , a couple-focused travel series promoting cross-cultural immersion. The program featured six 90-minute episodes set in (premiering July 2025) and segments in , where the pair traded lifestyles with local youth, including operating a bed-and-breakfast in , , to highlight everyday cultural exchanges beyond tourism stereotypes. This format innovated by emphasizing reciprocal swaps over scripted sightseeing, aiming to foster genuine connections, though it retained reality TV conventions like edited emotional arcs.

Personal life

Family dynamics and inherited wealth

Huang Zitao is the only child of businessman Huang Zhongdong and his wife, born on May 2, 1993, in amid China's , which limited most urban families to a single offspring from 1979 to 2015. His parents maintained a supportive family environment, with his father emphasizing independence while providing guidance; Huang Zhongdong reportedly advised his son, "Don't be afraid to be bold or stubborn—just be yourself," reflecting a dynamic that encouraged personal pursuit over indulgence. This relationship was marked by proximity, as the father relocated from to around 2015 to oversee Zitao's career transition, acquiring a 35% stake in his agency and serving as its chairman to facilitate professional stability without direct interference in early trainee years. Despite the family's economic standing, Zitao has publicly disclosed learning of his father's substantial only after adulthood, having lived modestly during his pre-debut training in starting at age 11 in , which underscores a deliberate effort to foster absent early privileges. Huang Zhongdong, once ranked seventh on Qingdao's wealth list in 1997 with a reported company valued at over 20 billion RMB (approximately US$3 billion at 2016 exchange rates), owned four to five properties in the city but withheld full details of assets from his son during formative years to avoid dependency. This approach aligns with timelines indicating Zitao's career foundations were established prior to access, countering claims of undue through evidence of delayed familial economic leverage. Huang Zhongdong's death on September 11, 2020, at age 52 from illness transferred these assets to Zitao, including the Qingdao-based and , though the exact valuation remains based on the father's prior self-reported figures amid some unverified disputes over scale. The , estimated at 20 billion RMB, represented a post-adulthood windfall following Zitao's independent entry into entertainment, preserving the family's dynamic of conditional support rather than preconditioned entitlement.

Romantic relationships and marriage

Huang Zitao began a romantic relationship with singer and actress Xu Yiyang, a former trainee, around 2020 after they met through professional collaborations, though pre-2024 dating rumors linking them remained unconfirmed. The couple publicly confirmed their partnership on July 14, 2024, via social media posts expressing mutual affection and commitment. They registered their marriage on December 2, 2024, sharing their official marriage certificate on to announce the legal union. A ceremonial followed on October 16, 2025, in Beijing's Huairou district, featuring a fairytale theme with elaborate decorations, including celestial motifs, and attendance by high-profile guests from the entertainment industry. Post-announcement, the couple collaborated on joint projects, including the 2025 variety series Natural High, in which they immersed themselves in local customs during travels to and . In late June 2025, their management teams issued statements denying online rumors of or a secret child, affirming no such events had occurred and threatening legal action against rumor-spreaders. As of October 2025, Huang Zitao and Xu Yiyang have no children.

Controversies and public incidents

Contract disputes and professional attitudes

In August 2015, Huang Zitao filed a lawsuit against SM Entertainment in China to nullify his exclusive standard contract, citing its excessive 10-year duration from his trainee debut and unfair profit distribution that left him earning approximately 530 million South Korean won despite EXO's commercial success. SM countered by initiating legal action in October 2015, alleging breach for unauthorized independent activities, with the Chinese court initially ruling in Huang's favor for domestic enforcement while a Korean court in 2016 ordered him to fulfill obligations until 2022, highlighting jurisdictional tensions in cross-border K-pop contracts that prioritize company control over artist autonomy. These disputes underscored broader frictions for Chinese idols in SM's system, where hierarchical profit splits—often 7:3 or worse favoring the agency—and rigid schedules clashed with expectations of greater creative and financial independence in China's burgeoning entertainment market. Post-departure, Huang faced scrutiny for professional conduct, including arriving late to a Versus Versace runway show during London Fashion Week on September 20, 2015, where he walked casually across the active catwalk to reach his seat, interrupting models and drawing criticism from Chinese media for perceived disrespect to event protocol despite his role as a brand endorser. His representatives attributed the delay to traffic, claiming staff guidance led him onstage, but outlets like Kpop Herald reported it as emblematic of unprofessionalism amid his rapid pivot to solo ventures. Similar backlash emerged from an August 4, 2015, media interview where tardiness fueled perceptions of entitlement, amplifying narratives of attitude shifts as Huang navigated independence from SM's disciplined structure. Such incidents reflect causal strains in transitioning from K-pop's agency-centric model—emphasizing collective deference and long-term investments—to China's artist-driven ecosystem, where solo branding often prioritizes personal agency over protocol, though media amplification in both markets exaggerated lapses without equivalent scrutiny of systemic pressures.

Recent business and personal backlash

In October 2025, Huang Zitao encountered widespread criticism over his wedding ceremony to Xu Yiyang, held on October 16 in , , with detractors labeling it a marred by inauthentic elements such as fake decorations and the sale of products via livestream. The event drew accusations of extravagance and commercial exploitation, including unconventional choices like using as a bouquet, amplifying perceptions of insincerity amid the couple's prior legal in December 2024. In response, the couple's representatives refuted related claims of ticket scalping, issuing warnings about fraudulent listings to protect attendees from scams. Earlier, in June 2025, Huang faced an awkward public moment during a livestream when influencer Didi directly questioned whether he had contemplated divorcing Xu Yiyang, prompting immediate backlash against the asker for insensitivity and poor judgment. Huang firmly denied any such intentions and defended his , a stance that garnered online praise for his loyalty while highlighting ongoing scrutiny of their relationship dynamics. Concurrently, rumors of and a secret child were explicitly denied by their management team, which clarified that neither party had engaged in such practices. On the business front, on October 13, 2025, the Longgang District People's Court in , , imposed a three-year freeze on the equity of one of Huang's companies, extending through October 12, 2028, amid unspecified legal proceedings. This development fueled speculation about financial mismanagement, though details of the underlying disputes remain undisclosed in .

Works

Discography

Huang Zitao, performing under the stage name Z.TAO, contributed rap verses to -M tracks on the group's releases including the debut MAMA (2012) and the studio album XOXO (2013).) Following his exit from in 2014, he launched a solo career in , debuting with the EP T.A.O on July 23, 2015, which recorded 670,000 digital downloads within its first week. His subsequent output consists primarily of digital EPs, single albums, and standalone singles released via his independent label Huang Zitao Studio, emphasizing rap and pop styles with occasional collaborations.
TitleTypeRelease dateLabelPeak chart notes
T.A.OEPJuly 23, 2015Huang Zitao Studio670,000 digital sales (first week)
Z.TAOEPAugust 19, 2015Huang Zitao StudioFree digital release; title track "Crown")
The RoadStudio albumAugust 22, 2016Huang Zitao Studio-
揭穿 (Jie Chuan, Reveal)Album2017Huang Zitao StudioTitle track streams exceed 3.5 million on Spotify
BeggarAlbum2018Huang Zitao StudioStreams surpass 8.9 million on Spotify
Art Is BlueAlbumMay 29, 2019Huang Zitao Studio-
Music Is BlueAlbumJune 12, 2019Huang Zitao Studio-
失眠 (Shi Mian, Sleepless)Studio album2022Huang Zitao Studio-
《30's Club》Pt.1Single albumNovember 1, 2023Huang Zitao Studio-
《30's Club》Pt.2Single albumApril 13, 2024Huang Zitao Studio-
Z.TAO has issued numerous digital singles, including collaborations such as "敏感" (Min Gan, Sensitive) with in 2020, which amassed over 4.2 million streams. Recent 2025 releases encompass "N.E.W." on June 2 as the theme for a rap program, alongside "2025DISS Freestyle" and "爱错" (Ai Cuo, Wrong Love). These tracks continue his pattern of frequent, independent digital drops without major reported sales or chart data beyond streaming metrics.

Filmography

Huang Zitao made his acting debut in 2015 with the supporting role of William, assistant to the protagonist, in the romantic drama film . Subsequent film roles included leading parts in action and historical dramas, such as Da Hai in the 2016 war comedy , Fang Jie in the 2017 gangster film The Game Changer, and Kang Qiao in the 2017 mystery thriller Edge of Innocence.
YearTitleRole
2015William (supporting)
2016Da Hai (lead)
2017The Game ChangerFang Jie (lead)
2017Edge of InnocenceKang Qiao (lead)
2018Don't Forget Your Original HeartLead role
2022Moon ManA-list Idol (supporting)
In television, Huang starred in the 2015 web series as a fictionalized version of himself and took on lead roles in historical and modern dramas thereafter, including Zhi Zun Bao in the 2017 fantasy adaptation : Love of Eternity and Xie Xiaofei in the 2018 romantic series . His recent credits feature leading performances as Zheng Boxu, an arrogant idol navigating fame, in the 2019 idol drama , and , a in a legal romance, in the 2022 series Legally Romance.
YearTitleRole
2010That Love ComesKe Chuan (supporting)
2015EXO Next DoorTao (supporting)
2017A Chinese Odyssey: Love of EternityZhi Zun Bao (lead)
2018NegotiatorXie Xiaofei (lead)
2019The Brightest Star in the SkyZheng Boxu (lead)
2019Hot Blooded YouthWu Qian (lead)
2020Forward ForeverErgi Chong Li Ming (lead)
2022Legally RomanceLu Xun (lead)
2023New Vanity FairSong Yang (lead)
2023My PreciousShen Mi (lead)

Concert tours and live performances

As a member of from 2012 to 2014, Huang Zitao participated in the group's early live performances and tours, including showcases where he showcased wushu routines as a highlight. His background, developed through childhood , featured prominently in EXO-M's setlists, such as dynamic flips and staff work during songs like "Mama" at 2012 . These elements added a distinctive athletic flair to EXO's high-energy stages, drawing from Huang's competitive wushu experience. Following his departure from EXO in 2015, Huang launched his solo career with the Z.TAO Mini Concert Tour that year, marking his first independent live outings focused on Chinese audiences. In 2016, he initiated the Z.TAO The Road Concert Tour on May 1 in , promoting his album of the same name with performances emphasizing rap and sequences adapted for mainland venues. The tour expanded to multiple cities, incorporating wushu-inspired choreography to engage fans familiar with his EXO-era skills. Subsequent tours included the Z.TAO Concert Tour in 2017, which featured intimate fan interactions and covers of his hits like "." The 2018 Z.TAO IS GOØD Concert Tour, including stops in and , highlighted matured stage production with elaborate lighting and guest appearances, selling out arenas in . By 2019, the IS Concert Tour in continued this progression, blending pop tracks with segments for visually striking shows. Post-2015 adaptations emphasized larger-scale Chinese market logistics, such as extended set times and regional promotions tailored to domestic ticketing platforms. In recent years, Huang has shifted toward fan meets and guest spots rather than full tours, including a 2025 backstage appearance and onstage reunion with former member Luhan during the latter's tour. These events maintain his live presence amid solo activities, often revisiting wushu elements for nostalgic appeal. Specific attendance figures for solo tours remain limited in public records, though major stops consistently drew thousands per show based on venue capacities.

Reception and legacy

Awards and nominations

Huang Zitao has accumulated a modest number of awards and nominations in music and acting, with many music accolades emphasizing commercial influence and fan-driven metrics over critical or jury-assessed artistic achievement, as is common in Chinese entertainment ceremonies where online voting and popularity data heavily influence outcomes. In music, he won the Year's Best Stage Performance award at the 2015 Migu Music Awards for his rendition of "Reluctantly." He received the Most Influential Male Singer honor at the 2016 Mobile Video Festival (Miopai Awards), highlighting his rising solo prominence post-EXO. At the 2017 Asian Music Gala, a fan-influenced event, he earned recognition in the Top 10 Songs category for "New Day." In 2018, Baidu Baike awarded him All-Round Artist of the Year, based primarily on search trends and user engagement data rather than peer review. His most notable music wins came at the 2019 China Music Awards, where he secured Asian Influential Power Male Singer and Versatile Artist of the Year, categories blending jury input with popularity indicators amid competition from established mainland acts. In acting, nominations have centered on television roles, reflecting industry acknowledgment of his transition from idol to performer in state-backed awards like the Huading, which prioritize audience reception and production quality. He was nominated for Best Actor in a Television Series at the 29th Huading Awards in 2020 for Hot-Blooded Youth, competing against veteran leads in historical dramas. That year, he also received a nod at the 7th The Actors of China Awards for Forward Forever. No wins in major peer-reviewed categories like Golden Melody Awards appear in records, underscoring a career trajectory more aligned with commercial appeal than elite critical consensus.

Cultural impact and public perception


Huang Zitao's transition from to an independent artist under his own studio has positioned him as a trailblazer in , demonstrating the feasibility of prioritizing domestic markets over affiliations following his 2015 departure. His establishment of Huang Z. Tao Studio enabled creative control, influencing subsequent artists to pursue self-managed careers amid tensions between South Korean agencies and Chinese regulations. This shift contributed to a broader assertion of Chinese entertainment autonomy, with his solo releases and productions amassing significant streams and sales within by 2025. In , Huang maintains a robust fanbase, evidenced by his account surpassing 63 million followers as early as 2021 and continued prominence in 2025 celebrity rankings, reflecting sustained domestic engagement. Conversely, his visibility in Korea has largely faded since leaving , with public discourse there centering on past group dynamics rather than ongoing relevance. This divergence underscores his successful pivot to Chinese audiences, where his multifaceted career in music, , and production bolsters cultural resonance. Huang's entrepreneurial ventures extend his impact beyond , notably through the 2025 launch of Domyway, a sanitary napkin brand born from his public critique of industry opacity; the product sold 195,000 units in 15 minutes upon debut, highlighting his ability to leverage for consumer goods . He also founded L. Tao , managing talents and projects, which exemplifies integration of artistry with . Public perception remains polarized: admirers praise his independence and business successes as empowering for Chinese idols, while detractors cite instances of perceived entitlement, such as harsh rebukes of dissatisfied fans and attitudes linked to his family's wealth. These views, amplified by interactions, portray him as a self-made figure in yet emblematic of celebrity pitfalls in handling scrutiny. By 2025, his narrative embodies the tensions of fame in a nationalistic landscape, balancing innovation with accountability demands.

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  76. https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/china-personalities/article/3311375/china-pop-idol-live-streams-sale-own-sanitary-pad-brand-earns-us3-million-half-hour
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  87. https://www.soompi.com/article/816163wpp/tao-is-reportedly-heir-to-massive-inheritance
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