 |
| Actor Chen Linong Faces Growing Fan Frustration Over Alleged Kissing Scene and Billing Row. (Credits: Weibo/Sina) |
A behind-the-scenes romantic scene from Chen Linong's upcoming film Huo Jiu Jiu (活久久) has unexpectedly become one of Chinese social media's hottest entertainment discussions this week, with some supporters announcing their departure from the fandom while others are rallying behind the singer-turned-actor. What began as a few alleged behind-the-scenes images quickly evolved into a wider debate about celebrity image, acting careers, fan expectations and even film billing credits.
The controversy emerged shortly after filming for Huo Jiu Jiu, directed by Chen Guohui, began in Wenzhou on 8 June. The film stars Chen Linong alongside Zhang Yifan and tells the emotional story of a married couple navigating life's hardships while holding onto love and hope.
However, before audiences had even seen an official trailer, alleged set photos reportedly showing a romantic scene between the two stars began circulating online.
 |
Soon afterwards, claims spread that the scene required multiple retakes. While none of these allegations have been officially confirmed, the rumours gained momentum across social platforms and pushed the phrase "Chen Linong kissing scene" into trending discussions.
For some fans, it was simply another day in the entertainment industry. For others, particularly long-time supporters who first followed Chen Linong during his idol years, it became a surprisingly emotional topic.
A section of fans expressed disappointment, arguing that the actor's image had changed significantly from the one they originally supported. Some self-described "girlfriend fans" openly stated they were stepping away from the fandom.
The reaction prompted plenty of raised eyebrows among C-netz, many of whom pointed out that Chen Linong is now 25 years old and has repeatedly spoken about wanting to build a long-term acting career.
 |
| Fan Backlash Grows as Chen Linong's Alleged Kissing Scene Triggers Follower Drop |
As several comments joked online, actors playing married characters without romance would make for a rather short film. Yet the frustration was not solely focused on the reported romantic scene. Many supporters argued that deeper concerns had been building for some time. One major discussion centred on billing.
Fans questioned why Chen Linong was reportedly listed after Zhang Yifan despite previously leading projects such as Soul Snatcher. Others criticised what they perceived as insufficient communication from his management team regarding production rumours and online speculation.
The growing attention also placed a spotlight on the chemistry between Chen Linong and Zhang Yifan. Some fans felt recent interactions between the pair appeared unusually friendly and interpreted promotional activities as an attempt to market a new screen pairing.
Meanwhile, many neutral viewers saw nothing unusual, arguing that actors promoting a film together is hardly groundbreaking behaviour. In the entertainment world, two co-stars smiling in the same direction can sometimes generate enough theories to fill an entire discussion forum.
As debate intensified, Chen Linong Studio released an official statement on 9 June. The studio firmly rejected circulating rumours, screenshots and claims related to the production, describing them as fabricated information intended to create controversy.
 |
The statement urged the public to avoid spreading unverified content and reminded people that unauthorised behind-the-scenes material should not be treated as reliable information.
The studio also addressed behaviour that could disrupt filming operations, including unauthorised photography, following production activities and sharing materials from restricted filming areas.
Representatives stressed that such actions affect both the production process and performers' ability to focus on their work. They further stated that evidence would be collected against accounts responsible for spreading false information and that further action could be considered where appropriate.
 |
Despite the controversy, many fans have continued to support Chen Linong's transition from idol to actor. Across Weibo and other platforms, supporters argued that taking on more mature and emotionally demanding roles is a natural step for someone hoping to establish a lasting career in film.. that the real test will come when audiences finally see the finished performance rather than judging a project based on fragmented reports from a film set.
For now, Huo Jiu Jiu remains in production, and much of the discussion surrounding the film continues to be driven by speculation rather than official footage.