Ex-girlfriend releases chat logs with recently departed actor Jin Ze, with one alleging sexual assault, Entertainment News
Chinese actor Jin Ze, 33, died at his home in Hangzhou on June 2, with his management agency, Shengshi Guangnian Culture Co, confirming the news on June 6. Following his death, his ex-girlfriend Li Zifeng released screenshots on June 13 of alleged chat logs dating back to 2022, which contain claims of workplace abuse, sexual assault, and extreme overwork.
Allegations of Abuse and Overwork
The unverified messages, attributed to Jin Ze by Li Zifeng, detail a pattern of alleged exploitation within the entertainment industry. In the chat logs, the actor described being forced to attend social events to accompany high-ranking staff members at major entertainment companies and streaming platforms. He alleged physical abuse, stating, “He forced me to get on my knees, bit me and dragged me to the bed.”
Beyond the allegations of assault, the logs indicate the actor was suffering from a grueling professional schedule. Jin Ze reportedly told Li he felt “close to death” due to working hours that spanned from 6 a.m. to midnight daily. His professional portfolio reflects this intensity, with seven series released between 2025 and 2026, including microdramas featuring more than 60 episodes each, alongside three additional unreleased projects.
Before transitioning into acting with roles in Hello, Joann (2019) and Legally Romance (2022), Jin Ze—born Zhang Jia Wei in Weihai, Shandong province—began his career as a model after graduating from the Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology.
Industry and Public Response
The release of the screenshots has prompted public calls for authorities to investigate the entertainment industry’s labor practices. Netizens have expressed concern regarding the physical and mental health of performers, urging a review of the “unscrupulous” working conditions that prioritize high-volume production over the welfare of talent. Li Zifeng, who is the CEO of Hecai Culture and Media, expressed regret in her posts, stating, “Jin Ze was being bullied and I didn’t look further into it. I should’ve been there for him and helped him.”
The public reaction suggests a growing tension between the rapid-fire production cycles of modern streaming media—exemplified by the actor’s extensive microdrama output—and the human cost of such demands. When allegations of this nature surface following a sudden death, they often serve as a catalyst for industry-wide scrutiny regarding power dynamics and labor protections for performers.
What Happens Next
As of June 13, Shengshi Guangnian Culture Co has not released a statement addressing the new information published by Li Zifeng. In their initial June 6 announcement, the agency requested that the public “refrain from fabricating or spreading rumours” and avoid speculating on the cause of death to preserve the actor’s dignity. It is possible that the agency may issue a follow-up response if the allegations regarding workplace misconduct gain enough traction to warrant official intervention. Furthermore, authorities could theoretically open an inquiry into the labor practices mentioned if formal complaints are filed.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Jin Ze pass away?
Jin Ze, whose real name was Zhang Jia Wei, died at his home in Hangzhou on June 2.
What were the primary complaints mentioned in the alleged chat logs?
The logs allege that Jin Ze was subjected to sexual assault by high-ranking staff members and forced to endure daily working hours from 6 a.m. until midnight.
Has the actor’s management agency addressed the allegations?
As of the most recent reports, Shengshi Guangnian Culture Co has not responded to the screenshots released by Li Zifeng.
How should the industry balance the demand for high-volume content with the necessity of protecting the mental and physical well-being of its performers?