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| Cheng Yi’s Safety Under Threat as Anti-Fan Harassment Escalates Into Real-World Damage (Photo: Sohu) |
What started as uncomfortable attention has now crossed into genuinely alarming territory. Actor Cheng Yi is facing a severe escalation of anti-fan behaviour, with actions that no longer stay online but directly threaten his personal safety and daily life. The situation has shaken both fans and industry watchers, raising fresh concerns about how extreme obsession can spiral into real-world danger.
On 14 January, Cheng Yi’s studio released a strongly worded statement revealing that the actor and his family have been subjected to prolonged stalking and harassment.
According to the statement, a specific individual allegedly obtained Cheng Yi’s private schedule through illegal means and repeatedly followed, surrounded, and attempted to block his vehicle, seriously disrupting his normal routines and putting lives at risk.
The situation took a disturbing turn at around 6:40 am that morning. The individual reportedly entered the area where Cheng Yi’s vehicle was parked and vandalised it with red paint, leaving behind highly offensive and hostile messages. The studio said evidence was secured immediately and the matter was reported to authorities without delay.
What shocked many even more was what followed. The studio revealed that its email inbox has been flooded with threatening messages directed at Cheng Yi.
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During police handling later that afternoon, the individual allegedly became emotionally unstable and issued provocative statements, attempting to intimidate those involved. The studio stressed that this behaviour showed clear signs of dangerous escalation rather than isolated misconduct.
In its statement, Cheng Yi’s studio made it clear that this is no longer a case of obsessive following often associated with extreme fan culture.
They described the actions as carrying a real risk of physical harm, not only to the actor but also to his family and staff. All relevant evidence has now been submitted to authorities, with the studio urging firm measures to prevent further incidents.
News of the incident quickly spread online, triggering strong reactions from fans and netizens. Many expressed anger and fear, calling the behaviour criminal rather than fan-related.
Comments describing the incident as “terrifying”, “completely out of control”, and “a wake-up call” flooded discussion spaces. Others urged stricter protection for public figures and clearer boundaries between admiration and intrusion.
At the same time, there were calls for calmer, more rational support from genuine fans. Many stressed that true support should never come at the cost of someone’s safety or privacy, echoing the studio’s appeal for respect and accountability.
What are your thoughts on where the line should be drawn between fandom and personal boundaries? Do you think current measures are enough to protect public figures and their families?