Xiang Tai Denies Burning Stepdaughter, Cites Difficulties of Being a Stepmother
Translated from Chinese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Chen Lan, also known as "Xiang Tai," has responded to accusations from her stepdaughter, Xiang Yongheng, that she used a cigarette butt to burn her.
- Xiang Tai denied the allegations, calling them "ridiculous" and expressing the difficulties of being a stepmother.
- She stated that she had always treated Xiang Yongheng like her own daughter, providing support throughout her life, including during business failures.
Hong Kong entertainment figure Chen Lan, widely known as "Xiang Tai," has vehemently denied accusations made by her stepdaughter, Xiang Yongheng, that she once burned her with a cigarette. In a recent video addressing past controversies, Xiang Tai described the claim as "ridiculous" and lamented the challenges of being a stepmother, suggesting the accusation was a misunderstanding that had unfairly tarnished her reputation and efforts over the years.
This statement is truly ridiculous.
Xiang Tai asserted that she had consistently cared for Xiang Yongheng as if she were her own child, recalling instances of spoiling her and offering support during significant life events. She mentioned helping Xiang Yongheng with university applications and assisting after her entrepreneurial ventures failed, emphasizing her continuous involvement in her stepdaughter's life. Xiang Tai reiterated that she never physically harmed Xiang Yongheng and refuted the exaggerated claims circulating about her behavior.
Her husband, Xiang Huaqiang, publicly supported Xiang Tai, expressing anger at the accusations and stating, "Xiang Tai is very good to the children." This public defense underscores the couple's united front against what they perceive as unfair criticism. Xiang Tai's emotional appeal highlights the personal toll such accusations can take, especially when they contradict her self-portrayed role as a caring and supportive maternal figure.
It's not easy to be a stepmother.
From a cultural perspective within Chinese communities, the concept of a "stepmother" (後母) often carries historical baggage, sometimes associated with harshness or neglect. Xiang Tai's plea of "it's not easy to be a stepmother" resonates with this cultural context, as she seeks to counter negative stereotypes. Her insistence on her own kindness and dedication aims to reshape the narrative, presenting her actions in the best possible light and seeking empathy from the public. The controversy, while seemingly a private family matter, touches upon broader societal views on family dynamics and the complexities of blended families.
You (Xiang Tai) are very good to the children.
Originally published by Liberty Times in Chinese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.