AI ended his acting career—now this Chinese actor sells vegetables at a local market

AI Ended His Acting Career: Chinese Actor Now Sells Vegetables at Local Market

From Spotlight to Soil

AI ended his acting career now this – Once a celebrated figure in China’s thriving short-drama scene, Xu Peng has pivoted from the spotlight to the soil. His decision to leave the entertainment industry came after the disruptive rise of artificial intelligence, which reshaped the production landscape. Now, the former actor spends his days at a local market in rural Shandong, selling vegetables grown by his grandfather. This unconventional career shift has sparked widespread discussion about the evolving role of human creativity in the face of AI.

The AI Revolution in Content Creation

Xu Peng, a graduate of the Central Academy of Drama, gained prominence through his role as a dominant CEO in short-form productions during the 2025 micro-drama boom. His transition to AI-driven content, which promised faster production and lower costs, led to a surge in demand for his services. Yet, by early 2026, nearly 95% of new short dramas—over 122,000 out of 128,000 total—were generated by machines, leaving many actors like Xu Peng struggling to find steady roles. “AI ended his acting career,” he acknowledged, as automation outpaced human talent in the industry.

The integration of AI in short dramas has not only altered production timelines but also redefined the value of traditional acting skills. While Xu Peng’s early work thrived under the trend, the reliance on algorithmic scripts and virtual actors meant fewer opportunities for human performers. Despite his efforts to adapt, the actor found himself at a crossroads, prompting a return to his family’s roots in the countryside.

A Return to Simplicity

After completing his final short drama this year, Xu Peng traded the glitz of stage lights for the quiet hum of a rural market. He now works alongside his grandfather, a seasoned farmer, to sell fresh produce grown in their family’s garden. The actor drives an electric vehicle to the market, a far cry from the luxury of film sets, but a deliberate choice to reconnect with simplicity. “The market is my new stage,” he remarked, emphasizing the shift from high-tech production to hands-on labor.

His reentry into daily work has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans were surprised to see the actor engaged in manual tasks, while others have flocked to the market to support his new venture. Xu Peng’s presence has become a symbol of resilience, blending his past as a performer with his present as a grassroots worker. The actor’s choice highlights a broader narrative about the intersection of technology and tradition in modern China.

Community and Cultural Resonance

Local media has captured the heartwarming story of Xu Peng’s transformation, framing it as both a personal and cultural phenomenon. In his hometown, the actor’s return to the market has generated local interest, with villagers and curious onlookers gathering to witness his new life. His grandfather’s vegetable farm, a legacy passed down through generations, now serves as a backdrop for Xu Peng’s efforts to balance modernity with heritage. “AI ended his acting career,” he says, but the narrative is far from over.

Interestingly, Xu Peng’s work in the market has not only provided him with a stable income but also offered a fresh perspective on the industry’s challenges. The actor has taken to social media to share glimpses of his daily routine, from sorting produce to interacting with customers. This transparency has garnered both admiration and reflection, with many questioning whether AI’s dominance signals the end of human-driven creativity in entertainment.

A New Chapter in the Entertainment World

Despite his departure from acting, Xu Peng remains deeply connected to the world he once inhabited. He has continued to engage with the entertainment industry through side projects and mentoring young actors, advocating for a hybrid model where AI and human talent coexist. “Even if my profession changes, I’m still the same person,” he stated, underscoring his belief that the essence of storytelling can transcend formats. His journey reflects a growing trend among artists who are redefining success beyond traditional metrics.

The story of Xu Peng is emblematic of the broader impact AI has had on the creative workforce. With over 128,000 short dramas produced annually, the actor’s transition highlights the need for adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry. While some fear that AI will render human roles obsolete, Xu Peng’s efforts demonstrate that creativity can flourish in unexpected places. His current work in the market, though different from his former life, has become a testament to the enduring spirit of perseverance.