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Actor Jiang Houren Defends Girlfriend Amidst Online Scrutiny

From Liberty Times · () Chinese

Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • Actor Jiang Houren, 71, confirmed his relationship with his 24-year-old girlfriend, Tong Xin, who has a strong academic and professional background.
  • Jiang fiercely defended Tong Xin against online accusations of faking her credentials and past relationships, calling critics to focus on their own families.
  • He stated their connection is spiritual and that he aims to support her talents, dismissing speculation about seeking companionship or being deceived.

Veteran actor Jiang Houren, 71, has publicly confirmed his relationship with his 24-year-old girlfriend, Tong Xin, a move that has ignited a firestorm of online speculation and criticism. Tong Xin, who claims a high IQ and multiple master's and doctoral degrees from National Taiwan University, along with extensive experience in the US tech industry and ownership of five companies, has become the focus of intense scrutiny.

Originally, I just wanted to share a small story with everyone, but I didn't expect the media's amplification to cause such a huge wave. Even I, an old hand in the entertainment industry, was caught off guard.

— Jiang HourenResponding to the media attention and public reaction to his relationship.

Despite the couple's initial public display of affection, netizens have delved into Tong Xin's past, questioning her academic credentials and personal history. Accusations have ranged from fabricated degrees to past relationship issues. In response to the overwhelming online backlash, Jiang posted a lengthy statement defending Tong Xin and addressing the controversies.

"Originally, I just wanted to share a small story with everyone, but I didn't expect the media's amplification to cause such a huge wave. Even I, an old hand in the entertainment industry, was caught off guard," Jiang wrote. He defended Tong Xin's academic achievements, stating that having multiple degrees is not a significant feat in today's world. He also clarified that her name changes were minimal and that "Tong Xin" was a name he personally gave her.

Now that master's and doctorates are everywhere, what's the big deal about having a few degrees!

— Jiang HourenDefending his girlfriend's academic qualifications.

Jiang vehemently refuted claims that Tong Xin was involved in infidelity, stating his ex-wife has a good character and they remain friends. He dismissed accusations of being deceived, humorously suggesting he might be the one "tricking" her, given she earns a US salary. He also pushed back against personal attacks, including being called "senile" or "infatuated," advising critics to focus on their own parents instead.

Heh, what nonsense are you talking about? Trying to gain traffic?

— Jiang HourenResponding to accusations that his girlfriend was a 'mistress'.

He explained their connection as a spiritual recognition, stating that "practitioners or those with special abilities can recognize each other." Jiang sees himself as a protector for Tong Xin, aiming to help her develop her talents rather than seeking a traditional partner. He concluded by urging the public to view their relationship positively and expressed his love for Taiwan, hoping to contribute to its society.

Tong Xin earns a US salary, maybe I'm the one tricking her?

— Jiang HourenHumorously refuting claims that he is being financially exploited.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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