Chinese social media broke out for shock and indignation following the execution of actor and singer Zhang Yiyangwho was sentenced to death for the brutal murder of his 16 -year -old girlfriend. The 33 -year -old was executed by the fire team on December 18, 2024, in what is now considered one of the most shocking criminal cases involving a celebrity in recent Chinese history.
Zhang YiyangOften indicated as a “Celebrity of Level 18”-a colloquial term for entertainers with minimal fame-avea worked in the sector since 2012. It appeared in low-profile TV programs, musical competitions and has released a 2015 album with the name “Ghost Child.” Despite his limited fame, his public profile was sufficient to make the case viral.
A crime that shook the nation
In February 2022, Zhang Yiyang He attracted his minor girlfriend in a forest in Xingping, in the province of Shaanxi, with the claim to celebrate his birthday. During a discussion, triggered by the girl’s desire to put an end to the relationship, Zhang Yiyang I stabbed it several times in my neck with a folding knife. An autopsy later confirmed that his death was caused by mechanical asphyxia due to a cut artery and trachea.
After the murder, Zhang Yiyang He tried to escape and later tried to commit suicide in a motel. The authorities quickly arrested him and an investigation revealed a disturbing story of emotional manipulation and psychological abuses, including used suicide threats to control the victim.
One of Zhang Yiyang’s Post on social media finals: “It doesn’t matter what happens from now on, I’ll love you, it doesn’t matter what” The day of the murder was published and re -emerged as a chilling test.
Public reactions and streaming disputes
While Zhang Yiyang’s The rapid execution marked him as the first Chinese celebrity in the recent memory to be condemned to death for such a violent crime, the Netizen expressed confusion and anger for the continuous availability of his previous TV and music apparitions on streaming platforms.
This turned on a wider conversation on double standards in the Chinese entertainment sector. Critics point out that many celebrities were in the black list for much more mild crimes – such as tax evasion or personal scandals – Zhang Yiyang’s The content remains accessible despite its atrocious crime.
A request for reform
The case raised urgent questions about the supervision of the media, on the regulation of streaming and on the responsibility of celebrities in China. He also rekindled public concern for the exploitation of minors and potential dangers of parasocial relations in the culture of fans.
The commentators now ask for a more coherent application of the sector standards, stronger protections for young people and clearer guidelines on how platforms should manage the content of dishonored public figures.
While the dust is deposited, Zhang Yiyang’s The execution is remembered not only as a criminal proceeding, but as a moment that has exposed profound defects in the intersection between fame, power and justice in China.
ZNEWS
