LayarHijau– Mainland Chinese actor Yu Menglong reportedly died after falling from a height. Although authorities have confirmed that the case is not a homicide, various irregularities have fueled public speculation, including disturbing rumors of “torture” and “hidden connections.”
One of the main triggers of the controversy was the viral “17-person dinner party list.” Yu Menglong was reported to have attended a gathering at a friend’s house the night before his death. More than ten people were present, including actors, directors, producers, and actress Song Yiren. Although there is no evidence directly linking the gathering to his death, the public associated the list with the incident, sparking widespread rumors.
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Song Yiren’s name on the list drew significant attention. As a result, her new drama, The Moment I Met You, which was scheduled to premiere at the end of September, reportedly faced a delay. The postponement followed the withdrawal of several sponsor investments and broadcasting platforms suspending their airing decisions due to the uncertainty sparked by the controversy.
Song Yiren subsequently released an official statement through her lawyer, denying the false information circulating on Weibo, Xiaohongshu, and Douyin that linked her to Yu Menglong’s death. The statement highlighted extreme allegations such as being a “murderer,” “arranging drinking companions,” “fleeing abroad,” and “acting as a pimp,” which severely damaged her reputation. Legal action is being prepared to counter those spreading the defamatory claims.
Nevertheless, the heated public opinion prompted some netizens to launch a “Reject Song Yiren’s Works” movement. The delay of The Moment I Met You is also seen as a precautionary measure by sponsors and platforms to avoid reputational risk.
Meanwhile, other individuals named in the list, including director Cheng Qingsong, sought to deny involvement. He shared a conversation transcript on social media showing that he had other plans that night. However, his denial was refuted by actress Tian Hairong, who later filed a lawsuit, further intensifying the controversy.
Rumors in overseas communities even suggested the involvement of major entertainment industry investors, though these claims remain unconfirmed. As the case continues to unfold, not only are audiences in China demanding transparency, but international media outlets, including the BBC, have also begun covering the story, signaling that the controversy is far from over.
Source: World Journal
