Speculation over the wedding of actor Dou Xiao and heiress Laurinda Ho has intensified, with Chinese netizens claiming the cost of their high-profile wedding has been repeatedly exaggerated over time, while new reports point to unresolved financial and legal tensions behind the scenes.
According to online discussions, the couple’s wedding, expected in 2021, was initially advertised as costing around RMB 40 million. The figure then increased to RMB60 million, and after recent rumors of marital discord and possible divorce circulated, the reported cost rose again to RMB80 million. Social media users criticized the alleged “marketing hype” behind the rising numbers, arguing that the focus on luxury has overshadowed deeper issues within marriage.
Hong Kong and mainland Chinese media report that the marriage has become strained due to disagreements between Dou Xiao and Laurinda Ho’s mother, Chan Yuen-lan. The Ho family reportedly insisted that Dou Xiao sign a prenuptial agreement to protect the family assets. Dou Xiao is said to have refused, provoking the couple not completing a legal marriage registrationa move believed to prevent future property disputes.
Sources say Laurinda Ho has been caught between her husband and mother during the conflict, leading to growing tension between the two sides.
Although Laurinda Ho is a member of the influential Ho family, observers note that her position within the clan is not on par with key heirs. Laurinda is the daughter of the third wife of the late casino magnate Stanley Ho. Most of the power and assets had reportedly been transferred to the second wife’s branch of the family long before Stanley Ho’s death. His mother’s net worth is estimated at RMB 6.7 billion, but the Ho family’s wealth was already divided before the patriarch’s death.
Industry experts say that unlike her half-sister Sabrina Ho, who was strategically matched due to her hereditary position, Laurinda was not considered an heiress whose marriage would serve as a business alliance. Analysts also point out that the family’s long-standing disputes have made wealthy heirs wary of forming marital ties with the Ho family.
Rumors circulated suggesting that Dou Xiao hoped to strengthen his position by having a son, as producing a male heir once played a role in securing favor within the Ho family. The case of Mario Ho and Ming Xiwho received praise and rewards after the birth of his son is often cited as precedent.
However, experts point out that such speculations are no longer relevant. Since the division of assets has already been finalized, further heirs would have no impact on the distribution of the inheritance for the Ho family today.
Public sentiment online now centers on whether Dou Xiao ultimately benefited from the marriage. Many users say the actor has shouldered significant financial burdens while getting limited support or recognition from the Ho family.
