Actor denies being kept by wealthy woman, filming 60 kissing scenes

Chinese actor Zhong Yufei has vehemently denied widespread online rumors that he is being financially supported by a wealthy older woman, who allegedly demanded 60 kissing scenes in a 50-episode short drama. The actor addressed the allegations in a video, expressing his frustration at being the subject of such "yellow rumors."

Reports circulated on Chinese social media that a wealthy patron had financed a short drama and insisted that Zhong Yufei star opposite her, with an unusually high number of intimate scenes. This led to speculation that the actor was being "kept" by the woman.

Zhong Yufei clarified that while he accepts kissing scenes as part of his work, he objects to unsolicited advances like unwanted tongue contact. He also specifically refuted claims that his agent was the "wealthy older sister" who was supporting him. His agent, appearing alongside him, also dismissed the idea as absurd, questioning how she could possibly arrange for 60 kissing scenes and noting she did not resemble a "wealthy woman."

The actor acknowledged that the controversy had generated significant online attention, even trending on Weibo. However, he expressed anger at finding screenshots of himself and his agent on a disreputable website, falsely claiming they were in a relationship and had booked hotel rooms together. Zhong Yufei sarcastically thanked the rumor-mongers for the publicity but urged them to cease their actions, highlighting that men can also be victims of such fabricated gossip.