On September 18, Faye Wong (王菲) made an official statement on Weibo to clarify the on-going rumors regarding her divorce from ex-husband Li Yapeng (李亞鵬). Faye emphasized that no third party was ever involved and that their decision to separate was mutual and amicable. The former couple also vowed to continue their support for their charity organization, and appeared civil and friendly in their online exchanges. Ever since Faye and Yapeng publicly announced their divorce on September 13, gossips spread quickly regarding reasons behind their separation. Some believe that Yapeng was cheating on Faye with mainland actress Miao Pu (苗圃), who was caught sharing meals and holding hands with the married man. Others speculate conflict between Faye and her mother-in-law. Still others pointed fingers at Yapeng’s failed business ventures, saying that he has lost nearly 100 million RMB from investments in real estate, his production company, as well as his musical project. Although his reputation went downhill overnight, Yapeng refrained from making any public comments and only addressed the press with a smile. Meanwhile, Faye appeared solemn and teary-eyed when reporters caught up with her at the Beijing airport. Sources claimed that Faye has been reciting Buddhist sutras every night since her divorce, and has even traveled to India to seek advice from religious leaders. Her actions prompted speculation that she is planning to give up all of her worldly troubles and possessions to pursue the peaceful life of a Buddhist nun. In order to quickly stop the spread of false reports and to help salvage Yapeng’s public image, Faye broke her silence on yesterday to debunk some of these popular myths. She wrote, “I was the one who wanted to divorce. There is no third party. There are no conflicts with my mother-in-law. This also has nothing to do with financial problems. This is not some typical, melodramatic tragedy. We have separated in peace, and have chosen to get along in another way. To our children, we are still a family. Thank you Li Yapeng for tolerating all of this with love and a rational mind. I am grateful”. Faye added that she will continue to support the Smile Angel Foundation, a charity she founded with Yapeng that aims to help children suffering from cleft lips and palates. She also flatly denied plans to become a nun. Thankful for Faye’s words, Yapeng re-shared her statement on Weibo, adding, “My child’s mother… I will love you forever!” Creds: Ming Pao
