Taiwanese actress Lisa Wang has sparked major online discussion after revealing that she has entered the adult livestreaming industry to clear debts reportedly linked to a failed restaurant business.
The 49-year-old actress, also known as Wang Li Ren, was once a familiar face in Taiwanese entertainment during the early 2000s. She appeared in several popular television programmes, including the variety show Kangsi Lai Le and drama series such as Spicy Teacher.
Recent reports from Taiwanese media outlets revealed that Wang has started appearing on adult-oriented livestreaming platforms in an attempt to rebuild her finances after allegedly being saddled with debts exceeding S$200,000.
Her sudden career shift has shocked many fans and netizens across Asia, particularly because of her former celebrity status and academic background.
Livestream Sessions Draw Attention Online
Wang reportedly appeared on the entertainment platform SWAG during livestream sessions held on Apr. 25 and 26.
During the broadcasts, she wore revealing outfits while interacting with viewers and promoting livestream sales content. One of the sessions reportedly featured her participating in a massage-themed programme alongside a male actor, while another stream focused on couples yoga content.
According to Taiwanese media reports, Wang’s online popularity has translated into significant subscription earnings. Her Instagram account alone is believed to generate between NT$700,000 and NT$1.09 million monthly, which converts to approximately S$28,333 to S$44,126.
The estimate was reportedly based on subscriber numbers paying around NT$450, or about S$18, per month for exclusive content access.
Her social media platforms mainly feature fitness clips, exercise routines, and lifestyle-related videos, which continue attracting paying followers despite the controversy surrounding her latest business direction.
Failed Restaurant Business Allegedly Triggered Financial Crisis
Reports indicated that Wang previously allowed a friend to use her name in opening a Japanese restaurant business venture.
However, the arrangement allegedly turned disastrous after the chef involved reportedly disappeared due to financial problems. Creditors subsequently pursued legal action against Wang, leaving her responsible for debts said to total around NT$5 million, or approximately S$203,700.
The actress has since defended her decision to join adult livestreaming platforms, stating publicly that she is earning money honestly rather than committing crimes or deceiving others.
Her remarks generated mixed reactions online. Some netizens criticised her move, while others expressed sympathy, arguing that financial hardship can force individuals into unexpected career changes.
Netizens Surprised By Her Academic Background
Part of the online fascination surrounding Wang’s story comes from her educational achievements. She reportedly graduated in English studies from Barnard College, an institution linked to Columbia University in the United States.
Many social media users commented that her transition from actress and university graduate to adult livestream personality was unexpected.
The story has also reignited wider discussions about celebrity finances, failed investment partnerships, and the risks involved when public figures lend their names to businesses operated by friends or associates.