Major brands like Prada cut ties with Chinese actor Li Yifeng after his arrest

The renowned Chinese actor Li Yifeng, who has starred in films such as The Pioneer, and The Founding Of An Army, has been charged with soliciting sex workers by Beijing Police. 35-year-old confessed to the crime, per a Weibo post by the Beijing Municipal Public Security Bureau. After being detained, Chinese superstar Li Yifeng has been cut off from global brands, including Prada and Remy Martin.

The government is taking measures to curb what it calls "chaotic fan culture" and celebrity excess in China's entertainment industry. Li is the latest to find itself in legal trouble.

Beijing Police released an official statement regarding the arrest of 35-year-old male actor Li, surnamed Li, on Sunday, September 11. It said, "The individual confessed to visiting prostitutes multiple times and has been held administratively."


Under Chinese law, soliciting prostitution is illegal and is usually punished by up to 15 days in administrative detention. However, it may reduce minor offenses to five days.





Recently, Li's studio said online comments about his personal life were just rumours through a proclamation. The gossip has also been raked about on Weibo, China-based Twitter, where Li has over 60 million followers. Li claimed the rumours caused him emotional deterioration and impacted his business badly.

Only the previous month, Li was on the ramp in Beijing, walking for Prada's fall 2022 collection.

A series of slanders in recent months have taken down China's most significant entertainers, including musician Kris Wu, who was charged with suspicion of rape in August. Last year, actress Zheng Shuang was charged a $46 million tax evasion fine.

China Television Artist association said on Monday that no matter who or what an artist achieves, if they cannot keep themselves clean and out of scandal, their fame will vanish, their future will be ruined, and strict actions will be taken against them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What brands have dropped their association with the actor?
A. The scandal led several global and local brands to terminate Li's role as their brand ambassador, including fashion house Prada, watchmaker Panerai, Haleon, and the French company Remy Martin.