Chinese actor Zhang Haowei has been officially cleared of shocking allegations involving prostitution and tax evasion, nearly a year after the scandal severely damaged his reputation and career.
In August 2024, social media was flooded with alleged audio recordings and screenshots that accused Zhang Haowei of falsifying financial records and evading taxes. The controversy escalated when an entertainment blogger released an audio clip claiming the actor had organized prostitution activities.
Although the information was never verified, the allegations spread rapidly online, causing Zhang’s public image to collapse and effectively halting his career.
According to HK01, Zhang Haowei has now been formally vindicated following a legal investigation. In September this year, the actor filed a lawsuit against a former acquaintance surnamed Mao, accusing him of defamation and reputational damage.
After an in-depth investigation, authorities concluded that Mao had used technology to fabricate audio recordings and manipulated images, which were then deliberately provided to entertainment bloggers to smear Zhang Haowei.
During the court ruling, the judge ordered Mao to issue a public apology and pay 50,000 yuan (RMB) in compensation to Zhang Haowei for emotional distress and reputational harm.
Zhang later revealed that the defendant had been a childhood friend, but the two fell out after a financial dispute. According to the actor, this personal conflict became the motive behind the malicious fabrication.
“My career suffered significant damage because of this incident,” Zhang Haowei stated. “Now that the truth has finally been revealed, I hope to return to acting and be accepted again by colleagues and audiences.”
Born in 1991, Zhang Haowei rose to prominence for his role as the Crown Prince in Joy of Life. However, after the scandal broke and he faced widespread boycotts, several dramas he had filmed were forced to undergo urgent edits or were unable to air as scheduled.
With the court’s ruling now public, Zhang Haowei’s case has become a high-profile example of how fabricated digital evidence and unverified online accusations can devastate a public figure’s life—while also highlighting the importance of legal recourse in restoring justice.
Sources: Znews