Fang Shaoli, a 49-year-old from rural Shandong, has become a cult figure in China's standup comedy scene. Her jokes about daily life, from marriage to sexism, resonate with millions of women across the country. Dressed in a yellow hoodie and jeans, she performs in small Beijing theaters to packed crowds, mostly women.
Rise of Female Comedians
Standup comedy has exploded in China, with shows increasing by over 50% in the first half of 2025 compared to 2024, and box office revenues up 135%. Women like Fang, Wang Xiaoli, and Xi Ha are at the forefront, using humor to tackle issues like marriage pressure, dress codes, and gender roles.
Navigating Censorship
While comedy offers a space for sensitive topics, performers must avoid politics, LGBTQ+ issues, and criticism of the state. Officials have warned against stirring gender discord. Despite this, female comics subtly expand public speech, as noted by professor Rose Luqiu: they echo themes of independence and individualism.
- Fang's jokes about her daughters' marriage prospects highlight sexism.
- Xi Ha mocks impractical dress codes for flight attendants.
- Yang Li faced backlash for a joke about male confidence.
Fang's ex-husband even supports her online. As she says, "Now when I get attacked online, he secretly jumps in to help me fight the haters."
