Many stars have received punishment for crimes, but Chinese actor Zhang Yiyang (张艺洋) recently shocked netizens with the severity of his punishment. It was recently reported that the star was executed late last year for murdering his girlfriend.
The Xianyang Intermediate People’s Court in Shaanxi recently disclosed details of the murder case that involved Chinese actor Zhang Yiyang. The incident occurred on 26th February 2022 during the actor’s birthday celebration. According to reports, the then-31-year-old had intentionally killed his 16-year-old girlfriend after she wanted to break up with him. He reportedly attacked her in the neck with a folding knife, causing severe injuries that led to her death.
After the attack, Zhang Yiyang attempted to stage his girlfriend’s death as a suicide. He had also tried to take his own life but was unsuccessful. The public figure was later arrested and charged with intentional homicide. According to the court ruling, Zhang Yiyang’s actions were extremely violent and caused social harm. The court also revealed that the actor has a long history of emotionally manipulating the victim during their relationship.
Zhang Yiyang was then sentenced to death and was executed by firing squad on 18th December 2024, at 33 years old. This case marks the first time an artist in Mainland China’s entertainment industry was lawfully sentenced to and underwent capital punishment, highlighting its severity. However, it’s unknown why the case wasn’t publicised months after the execution took place.
Nevertheless, the case’s exposure sparked heated discussions among Chinese netizens. Many argued that Zhang Yiyang wasn’t included in the Chinese government’s official blacklist of disgraced artists, despite his sentencing. Some also lamented that his works are still accessible to the public, suggesting a double standard within the entertainment industry. Others also expressed disgust at the age gap between him and the victim.
While Zhang Yiyang has already received his punishment for his crime, netizens still want his name and work on the official blacklist as a reminder for other artists in China. What are your thoughts on this?
Sources: China Press, Dimsum Daily
