Jeremy Renner Denies Allegations of harassment and Unsolicited Images from Filmmaker Yi Zhou
A dispute has erupted between actor Jeremy renner and Chinese filmmaker Yi Zhou, centering on allegations of harassment and a contested personal relationship. Zhou publicly accused Renner of sending unsolicited explicit images and making threats, claims vehemently denied by Renner’s legal depiction.
The controversy began when Zhou shared screenshots on her Instagram account, purportedly showing intimate messages and photos exchanged with Renner. She alleges the contact began in June 2025 following an interview for a documentary, and escalated to include “a series of unsolicited pornographic images.” Zhou claims Renner initially presented himself as seeking a serious relationship, leading her to believe in his sincerity. She further stated that the situation deteriorated, culminating in exchanges where she called him a “pig” and he responded with a threat referencing her immigration status. Zhou asserts she possesses a “collection of photos and gifs pornographic” sent without her consent, and that Renner exploited her, denying their connection and collaborative work.
Renner’s lawyer responded with a strongly worded letter, categorically denying the filmmaker’s account of a closer relationship, characterizing any interaction as “an extremely brief and totally consensual encounter on a single occasion in July 2025.” The letter also refuted Zhou’s claim that Renner had narrated an AI-generated animated film, warning of “multimillion-dollar liability for misappropriation of my client’s valuable image rights” if she continued to use his name, image, or voice in connection with such projects.
Renner’s representatives further told TMZ that the accusations are “totally inaccurate and false,” stating Zhou “relentlessly and aggressively harassed” Renner for months without reciprocation, aside from the single encounter. they maintain any interaction was consensual and characterize Zhou’s claims as “mere retaliation for having rejected his romantic advances and not promoting his projects.”
Zhou had previously publicly denounced experiencing harassment and threats, stating she had “lived in fear for my safety and in deep anguish over the treatment I received.” The situation remains ongoing, with both parties presenting conflicting narratives.
