What was once framed as a “peaceful divorce” between Chen Xiao and Michelle Chen is once again drawing intense public attention after a legal dispute involving one of Chen Xiao’s fans reignited scrutiny surrounding their past marriage.
The latest controversy began after Michelle Chen filed a compulsory enforcement application on April 20 against a fan account that had spent years spreading defamatory claims about her online.
Seven Years of Online Harassment
The fan account, reportedly named “Lan Lin,” allegedly posted repeated attacks targeting Michelle Chen between 2018 and 2025.
The posts reportedly included appearance-based insults and accusations involving her private life and marriage.
In December 2025, a court ruled that the account had committed defamation and ordered the user to publicly apologize on Weibo while paying approximately 40,000 yuan in compensation, including emotional damages and legal fees.
After the defendant appealed, the second court upheld the original ruling.
However, the user reportedly failed to apologize or pay compensation, prompting Michelle Chen to seek legal enforcement.
Her studio later announced that any compensation eventually recovered would be donated to charity.
Fan Group Controversy Draws Attention
The controversy intensified after online users claimed the fan was allegedly connected to Chen Xiao’s fan community.
Screenshots circulating online allegedly showed discussions about spreading negative narratives about Michelle Chen in order to protect Chen Xiao’s public image.
While Chen Xiao has not publicly commented, reports claim his team has filed complaints against multiple online articles discussing the controversy.
Funeral Absence Debate Resurfaces
One of the most sensitive issues revived by the dispute involves the death of Michelle Chen’s father in late 2024.
At the time, Chen Xiao faced criticism for not attending the funeral.
According to complaint records cited by online discussions, his team reportedly argued that no public funeral had been held, therefore claims that he “refused to attend” were inaccurate.
That explanation sparked renewed criticism online.
Some users also resurfaced past messages allegedly sent by Michelle Chen’s father, in which he had warmly spoken about Chen Xiao.
Denial of “Cold Violence” Claims
Another major issue involves long-running rumors that Chen Xiao engaged in emotional neglect during the marriage.
His team reportedly denied those claims, stating that the couple had mutually agreed to divorce peacefully and would continue co-parenting their child.
They also denied allegations that he had abandoned his family or neglected his child.
Career Comparisons Fuel More Debate
The situation has also been amplified by comparisons between the former couple’s recent projects.
Michelle Chen’s drama Sniper Butterfly (狙击蝴蝶) reportedly performed strongly in late 2025.
Meanwhile, Chen Xiao’s historical business drama The Great Merchant (大生意人) received more mixed discussion regarding its performance.
Online comparisons between their careers have further fueled tensions.
A “Peaceful Divorce” Under Scrutiny
When Chen Xiao and Michelle Chen announced their divorce in February 2025, both sides used nearly identical language describing the split as peaceful.
Now, ongoing legal battles, resurfaced family controversies, and fan-related disputes have complicated that narrative.
Neither side has directly addressed each new allegation in detail, but the situation continues to generate widespread discussion online.
