Who Is Gong Li? Age, Biography and Wiki
Born on December 31, 1965, Gong Li is currently 59 years old. Over the years, she has established herself as one of Asia's leading actresses, gaining critical acclaim for her performances in films like "Raise the Red Lantern," "The Emperor and the Assassin," and "Memoirs of a Geisha." Her impactful contributions to the film industry have earned her numerous awards and accolades, solidifying her status as a cinematic icon.
| Occupation | Actress |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 31, 1965 |
| Age | 59 Years |
| Birth Place | Shenyang, Liaoning, China |
| Horoscope | Capricorn |
| Country | China |
Popularity
Gong Li's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Gong Li stands at an impressive height of 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) and weighs approximately 132 lbs (60 kg). Her measurements are often cited as 36-26-36 inches (91-66-91 cm), showcasing her elegant and statuesque figure. With her timeless beauty, Gong consistently makes a statement on and off the screen.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
As of 2025, Gong Li is believed to be in a happy and stable relationship with her boyfriend, who has maintained a relatively low profile. While specifics about her partner remain private, it is reported that they share a deep bond and mutual understanding. Gong has been previously married to Chinese director Zhang Yimou, with whom she collaborated on several groundbreaking films. However, their marriage ended in divorce, and since then, Gong has prioritized her career while nurturing her personal relationships.
She enrolled at the Central Academy of Drama in Beijing, from where she graduated in 1989. While a student at the Academy, she was spotted by director Zhang Yimou and debuted in Zhang's Red Sorghum in 1987.
Gong and Zhang's professional and personal relationship received much coverage in the Chinese-speaking world, as they continued to collaborate on a string of critically-acclaimed movies, including the Oscar-nominated features Ju Dou (1990) and Raise the Red Lantern (1991).
For her role in the Zhang-directed The Story of Qiu Ju (1992), Gong won the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the Venice Film Festival.
Net Worth and Salary
With an illustrious career spanning several decades, Gong Li's net worth is estimated to be around $100 million in 2025. Her earnings come from various sources, including acting roles in films, endorsement deals, and producing ventures. As one of the most bankable stars in the industry, Gong has negotiated significant salaries for her performances, reflecting her marketability and influence in the cinematic world.
Career, Business and Investments
Gong Li's career has been marked by a diverse array of roles that showcase her versatility as an actress. She has not only acted in films across different genres but also ventured into producing. Beyond her film career, Gong has made strategic investments in the fashion industry and has associated herself with high-end brands as a brand ambassador. This entrepreneurial spirit has allowed her to expand her influence beyond acting, making her an established businesswoman.
Gong was the head of jury at the 2000 Berlin Film and the 2002 Venice Film Festivals, the first Asian to hold such a position for either event.
Over the course of her career, Gong won several accolades, including four Hundred Flowers Awards, a Hong Kong Film Award, two Golden Rooster Awards, a Berlin Film Festival, two Cannes Film Festival and Venice Film Festival honors and a David di Donatello Award nomination.
She was appointed as a Commander (Commandeur) of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by the government of France in 2010.
Social Network
Gong Li has a significant presence on social media platforms, where she engages with fans and shares glimpses of her life and work. Her Instagram account boasts millions of followers, reflecting her enduring popularity. She often uses her platform to promote her films, fashion collaborations, and philanthropic endeavors, further endearing her to a global audience.
In 1992, Gong starred in the rural drama The Story of Qiu Ju, which won the Golden Lion award at the 49th Venice International Film Festival. Gong's portrayal of rural woman Qiu Ju not only won the Golden Rooster Awards and the Japanese Movie Critics Awards for Best Actress, but also helped her named Best Actress at the 49th Venice Film Festival.
Education
Gong Li received her formal education at the Shanghai Theatre Academy, where she honed her acting skills and developed a deep appreciation for the craft. This rigorous training laid the foundation for her successful career, allowing her to excel as a performer and gain recognition in prestigious film circles.
In 1987, while at college, Gong was discovered by Zhang Yimou, who cast her for the lead role in Red Sorghum, his first film as a director. The film won the Golden Bear at the 38th Berlin International Film Festival, becoming the first Chinese film to win this award. It also won the Golden Rooster Awards and the Hundred Flowers Awards for Best Picture in 1988.
