On December 18, Chinese media 163 highlighted the stormy marital journey of actor Jimmy Lin and his wife, former model Kelly Chen. The couple first crossed paths in 2004 at a prom and secretly dated for five years. It wasn’t until 2009, after welcoming their first child, that they publicly acknowledged their relationship, shocking fans across Asia. Jimmy later revealed that they had been engaged since 2008. After delays, they finally held a big wedding in Thailand surrounded by family and friends.
Despite the romantic timeline, their marriage faced intense public backlash. As one of the most adored male stars in Chinese entertainment, Lin’s relationship has attracted intense scrutiny, particularly aimed at Kelly Chen, who netizens described as “not nice enough” stay with him. Some even he accused her of trapping Jimmy with a pregnancy AND labeled her a gold digger.
Appearing on a reality show, Kelly broke down in tears as she spoke about more than a decade of online harassment.
“I am emotionally fragile. For more than ten years, people have said the cruelest things: calling me ugly, talentless, and asking why someone like me would marry Jimmy Lin. Some even insulted my family.” he said.
The incessant criticism made public outings stressful, with Kelly often feeling overwhelmed simply walking next to her husband in public.
Jimmy Lin, in response, blamed himself for failing to fully protect his wife: “As a public figure, I couldn’t protect her from the hurtful things people said.”
Throughout their marriage, Jimmy was by Kelly’s side. In his autobiography, he made it clear that he was the one who courted her, and not the other way around. Since Kelly stepped away from the spotlight to focus on her family, Lin has expressed deep gratitude for her sacrifices.
With her husband’s unwavering support, Kelly slowly found peace: “I’ve learned to stop worrying about what other people say” he shared.
Today, the couple has weathered their share of public storms and built a happy family life, raising three children who are often praised for their looks, overturning previous criticisms.
