On January 30, Li Yapeng resumed live streaming after a one-week break. Although he initially encouraged viewers to consume responsibly, some netizens urged him to do so “Stop talking and just sell.” The broadcast broke records, solidifying Li’s position as one of the most influential live streaming marketers in the industry.
From 6.50pm to 1am, Li streamed continuously for more than six hours. Within just 10 minutes of the live broadcast, over 400,000 viewers had already tuned in. Sales increased steadily throughout the session, with drinks and snacks generating 6.52 million yuan, while tea products alone exceeded 160 million yuan in sales. According to QQ News, Li Yapeng has now been recognized as a “high-level influencer” in the live streaming trading industry.
After the live stream, Li’s follower count increased significantly. His account gained more than 300,000 new followers in a single night, bringing the total to 10,439 million. To date, his following on Douyin (TikTok China) has grown from 6 million to over 10.48 million.
This success follows excellent previous performances. On January 17, Li hosted a five-hour live stream that generated 25 million yuan, ranking as the highest-grossing live stream of the previous 30 days. Another session on January 23 attracted more than 100,000 viewers shortly after launch, with fans actively requesting product links and sending virtual gifts. Li then expressed gratitude on social media and announced plans to donate proceeds from recent live broadcasts to hospitals.
Born in 1971, Li Yapeng is a well-known figure in Chinese entertainment, famous for classic dramas such as The legend of the Condor heroes AND Laughing in the wind. His personal life has also attracted public attention over the years, including high-profile relationships with celebrities such as Zhou Xun and Faye Wong. Li married Faye Wong in 2005, divorced in 2013 and shares a daughter, Li Yan, with her. He later remarried to actress Haiha Jinxi in 2022 and welcomed another daughter, before the couple recently divorced.
In recent years, Li Yapeng has faced significant financial difficulties due to failed business ventures, accumulating nearly $6 million in debt. Many of his assets have been seized and he is experiencing financial difficulties. Amid the controversy surrounding the Smile Angel Foundation, however, Li has received renewed public support and donations, marking a dramatic turn in both his public image and commercial success through live streaming.
Sources: Sinchew
