Male Idol Loses Fans Over Alleged Leaked Kiss With Female Idol

An actor’s popularity has reportedly taken a hit due to behind-the-scenes content that became a hot topic on social media.

Chen Linong is a Taiwanese singer and actor best known for being a member of the Chinese boy group Nine Percent. He went on to debut as a soloist and is pursuing an acting career. Now, he’s being swept up in a controversy that began shortly after the filming started on June 8 for his upcoming film, Huo Jiu Jiu.

The film features Chen Linong and idol-actress Zhang Yifan as a married couple, who face hardships after Zhang’s character is diagnosed with a serious illness. As such, it’s not surprising that the film features kiss scenes, but some fans aren’t happy about it. Before any official trailer was released, alleged behind-the-scenes content of the pair began circulating online, sparking unverified claims that the kiss required several takes.

Some fans, particularly those who identify as “girlfriend fans” of Chen, reportedly announced their departure from his fandom, saying his image no longer matched the version they originally supported before his acting debut. Chen Linong’s on-screen chemistry with Zhang Yifan also reportedly raised eyebrows and received criticism from fans.

In response, Chen’s management issued an official statement on June 9, rejecting the circulating rumors, screenshots, and claims as fabricated content or real content taken out of context to stir controversy. They also emphasized that hiring people to secretly photograph the set and/or interfere with the filming process is prohibited.

They asked the public not to spread unofficial set information and to keep an appropriate distance away from the cast and crew during filming.  Chen’s management added that they would collect evidence against accounts spreading false information and pursue further legal action where necessary.