Yi Zhou is an acclaimed Chinese filmmaker, writer, and producer known for her innovative short films screened at Sundance and Cannes. She has also held solo exhibitions and collaborated with global brands such as Chanel, Hennessy, and Bobbi Brown.
Yi Zhou recently worked with Marvel star Jeremy Renner on two high-profile projects: the documentary Chronicles of Disney and the AI-animated feature Stardust Future. These projects initially showed great promise but later became a source of controversy.
Zhou publicly accused Jeremy Renner of sexual harassment, intimidation, and threatening to report her to ICE. She claims Renner first contacted her in June 2025 after viewing her work, sending "personal and intimate photographs" and proposing a long-term romantic relationship.
She described Renner's behavior as "intimidating" and said he threatened to call immigration authorities.
Zhou had initially welcomed Renner’s collaboration and signed agreements allowing the use of his likeness, archival material, and social media content for her projects.
The collaboration that began with enthusiasm turned into a widely publicized dispute, casting a shadow over both the projects and the reputations involved.
Yi Zhou is a distinguished filmmaker whose recent collaboration with Jeremy Renner took a troubling turn amid serious allegations of harassment and intimidation by the actor.
Author's summary: Yi Zhou’s promising projects with Jeremy Renner unraveled amid accusations of harassment and threats, revealing a troubling dynamic behind the scenes.