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| Esther Yu’s Father Moves to Defend Reputation Amid Business Allegations |
Chinese actress Esther Yu Shuxin has found herself at the centre of online speculation once again—this time involving allegations directed not at her personally, but at her family’s financial background. The issue has attracted significant attention across Chinese social media platforms following similar controversy earlier this year involving actress Huang Yang Tian Tian.
On 19 May 2025, a Beijing-based law firm announced that it had formally taken on the defamation case of Mr Yu Pijie, Esther Yu’s father. The legal team confirmed that they have collected evidence against a number of Weibo users who allegedly published false and defamatory claims regarding Mr Yu’s business dealings. These accusations include serious claims of improper ties with state-linked enterprises and misappropriation of funds—allegations Mr Yu firmly denies.
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Mr Yu is seeking a public apology, along with compensation for both financial losses and emotional distress. According to the firm, these steps are being taken to uphold his reputation and challenge what he views as a coordinated attempt to malign his name and his daughter’s career.
At the heart of the controversy is Huashang Mining, a private enterprise led by Mr Yu. The company holds a 49% stake in a joint venture with a steel firm—of which the majority 51% stake is owned by the latter. Supporters argue that such a structure underlines the absence of direct control, and point out that no verified evidence of misconduct has emerged.
Another topic raised online relates to whether Esther Yu’s grandfather may have had previous links to state-owned entities. Publicly available records, however, indicate that he served only as a union representative during the 1980s—without holding any executive or operational role within the firm in question.
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The online furore escalated after a post from screenwriter Zhu Ming reignited debate over perceived privilege within the entertainment industry, singling out stars with so-called “advantaged” family backgrounds. In response, Esther Yu’s studio has been quick to act, publicly rejecting the rumours and vowing to protect the actress’s interests through appropriate legal channels.
Meanwhile, fans have rallied in support of the actress, with many expressing frustration over what they perceive as a pattern of targeted defamation whenever Esther Yu appears in a high-profile production or variety show. One widely circulated fan comment noted, “This isn’t the first time Xinxin’s family is dragged into controversy whenever her career shines. When they can’t fault her, they turn to her relatives.”
Supporters also voiced concern over the emotional toll such speculation could have on Esther’s elderly grandfather, urging respect for those not directly involved in public life.
Despite the noise, industry observers note that Esther Yu’s career continues to flourish, with ongoing projects and brand endorsements showing no signs of slowing. As one fan aptly put it: “The stronger the wind, the higher she soars.”
Legal proceedings are expected to continue in the coming months, as Mr Yu’s team pushes forward with efforts to seek accountability from those accused of spreading harmful falsehoods.