Top Actress Announces Divorce From Film Maker Husband

A top actor in the Chinese entertainment industry, Yao Chen, has shocked the public by announcing her separation from cinematographer Cao Yu.

On March 16, Yao Chen revealed through an official statement that their marriage had already come to an end several years ago. She explained that she had remained silent about the divorce in order to “protect the family and provide a stable environment for the children to grow up in.” They also have an art film company together.

“Although our relationship as a married couple has ended, we still share precious memories of running an art film company together. We have now decided to remain as friends, like family.”

Yao Chen and Cao Yu first met in 2011 through the film Love in Color. In November 2012, they surprised many by holding a private wedding in New Zealand with only close acquaintances in attendance. The couple welcomed a son in 2013 and a daughter in 2016, becoming parents of two. Beyond being a married couple, they also co-founded a film production company and took the lead in supporting art films. They were often seen attending award ceremonies and official events together, earning a reputation as a model couple.

However, prior to her marriage with Cao Yu, Yao Chen had been married once before to actor Ling Xiao Su. The two were classmates from the Beijing Film Academy’s class of 1999 and developed a romantic relationship during their school years, registering their marriage shortly after graduation. At the time, both were relatively unknown, and their marriage drew significant attention. However, they abruptly announced their divorce in 2011. Following the divorce reports, an acquaintance of Ling Xiao Su claimed that “Yao Chen had cheated four times during their marriage,” and Ling Xiao Su himself responded sharply, saying, “Yao Chen is the person I hate the most in my life.”

Born in 1979, Yao Chen is a leading actress in the Chinese entertainment industry. Known for her bold image and confident personality, she is considered a role model by many Chinese women. She has received widespread love for her roles in hit works such as the film My Own Swordsman and the drama Latent.