Will China’s First Lady Outshine Her Husband?

Step aside Michelle Obama and Carla Bruni-Sarkozy. A new first lady could be heading for fame on the global stage — one who’s not just a singing superstar and AIDS ambassador, but also a major general in China’s People’s Liberation Army.

Nicknamed “The Peony Fairy,” Peng Liyuan, 50, has been in the public eye for decades, best known for her annual appearances on the most watched television program in the world, the Chinese New Year gala.

She is married to Xi Jinping, who recently ascended to the country’s top leadership post. But will China’s new first lady be allowed to shine?