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| Netizen Admits Spreading False Claims About Chen Muchi After Court Ruling (Photo: Sohu) |
A sudden public apology has quietly sent ripples across Chinese social media Weibo, after a netizen admitted to spreading false claims about actor Chen Muchi for months. The apology, published in People’s Court Daily on 13 January, marks the official conclusion of a legal dispute that many fans had been following closely but cautiously.
According to the statement, the netizen confessed to repeatedly posting untrue and attacking content about Chen Hailiang, Chen Muchi’s legal name, on Weibo since October 2024.
These posts reportedly included written accusations, edited images, and pointed comments that were later confirmed to be fabricated rather than based on facts.
After a full legal review, the Beijing Internet Court ruled that the content involved distorted facts, damaged personal reputation, and caused serious negative impact both privately and publicly.
The court ordered the netizen to issue a public apology and compensate for related losses. As part of the ruling, the Weibo account used to spread the content has now been permanently closed.
In the written apology, the individual openly admitted fault and acknowledged the harm caused by their actions.
They also stressed that online speech carries responsibility, especially in digital public spaces where information spreads fast and widely.
The apology included a formal commitment not to repeat any behaviour that could infringe on Chen Muchi’s lawful rights in the future.
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Chen Muchi’s studio later confirmed the court’s decision and shared the handwritten apology, stating clearly that while genuine interest and discussion are understood, deliberate attacks and false claims will not be tolerated.
The studio also called on the public to help maintain a rational, respectful, and healthy online environment where attention does not turn into hostility.
Fans largely expressed relief following the announcement, with many saying the ruling finally cleared lingering doubts created by months of online noise.
Supporters praised the decision for restoring clarity and fairness, while some noted that prolonged false narratives can quietly affect an actor’s career even without official confirmation.
Netizen reactions, however, have been mixed. Some applauded the court for drawing a firm line and reminding users that the internet is not beyond accountability.
Others reflected on how quickly unverified claims can gain traction, urging people to pause before sharing emotionally charged posts. A smaller group questioned whether similar cases should be handled earlier to prevent long-term reputational damage.
Do you think stronger legal action is the right way to deal with online false claims, or should platforms step in sooner?