Actress Michelle Chen is facing mounting controversy in China after a livestream product scandal erupted, prompting a public apology and swift damage control measures. The issue gained widespread attention after China Central Television exposed a health product brand for allegedly fabricating parts of its brand story and award credentials, sending shockwaves across the livestream e-commerce scene.
Chen, who had previously promoted the product during a livestream in November 2025, issued a formal apology through her studio, expressing deep regret over “insufficient supervision” in product selection. Emphasizing her responsibility as a public figure, she pledged to fully protect consumer rights and handle the aftermath with “the most proactive and accountable attitude.”
Alongside Chen, several other Taiwanese celebrities including Ming Dao and Annie Yi were also implicated for having promoted the same product, leading to a wave of apology statements across social media.
To address the fallout, Chen announced a full refund policy for all consumers who purchased the product through her livestream or personal platforms, offering unconditional reimbursement via official channels. She also confirmed the termination of cooperation with the brand, adding that she would personally advance compensation regardless of the brand’s next steps.
Despite the apology and compensation plan, public reaction in China has remained critical. Many netizens argued that “the damage has already been done,” calling for stricter regulations on livestream commerce and harsher penalties for influencers who promote problematic products. Some suggested that any host found selling counterfeit or misleading goods should face temporary bans from livestream selling.
The controversy comes at a particularly difficult time for Chen, who has recently faced a series of personal and professional challenges, including a reported injury that required surgery and a temporary halt to her work schedule. The overlapping incidents have intensified public scrutiny over her activities in the Chinese market.
As the livestream industry continues to expand rapidly, this incident underscores growing concerns about product vetting standards and the accountability of celebrities involved in online sales.
Sources: Netizenbuzz
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