Who is Yi Zhou? Jeremy Renner Faces Misconduct Allegations Amid ICE Threat Controversy

Hollywood star Jeremy Renner, best known for playing Hawkeye in Marvel’s Avengers series, has come under scrutiny after Chinese filmmaker Yi Zhou accused him of sexual misconduct and intimidation.

Who is Yi Zhou?

Yi Zhou is a Chinese director, producer, and writer known for her short films that premiered at Sundance and the Cannes Film Festival. She has also collaborated with luxury brands including Chanel, Hennessy, and Bobbi Brown. Zhou’s creative style often mixes art, fashion, and storytelling.

The filmmaker recently worked with Renner on two projects — the documentary Chronicles of Disney, which released on October 17, 2025, and an upcoming animated movie titled Stardust Future, expected later this month.

Yi Zhou’s Allegations Against Jeremy Renner

On November 4, 2025, Yi Zhou posted a detailed statement on Instagram, claiming that Renner had sent her “personal and intimate photographs” after contacting her in June 2025. She said that they began dating soon after and that he signed an agreement with her Italian production company, allowing them to use his image and social media content for their projects.

Zhou alleged that after the release of Chronicles of Disney, Renner refused to promote the film and used fan accounts to spread false rumors that the documentary was made using AI-generated content.

When she confronted him about the matter and his “past misconduct,” Zhou claimed that Renner threatened to call ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) on her.

Claims of Abuse and Intimidation

In an interview with The Daily Mail published on November 6, Zhou described an alleged incident at Renner’s home. She claimed the actor drank heavily and screamed at her for two hours, leading her to lock herself in the bathroom out of fear.

Zhou provided photos to the outlet showing Renner appearing intoxicated beside a wine bottle. She also shared screenshots of text messages she sent to a friend during the incident, reportedly seeking help.

The filmmaker further claimed that during their Oscar campaign for Chronicles of Disney, she asked Renner to speak out against online hate directed at her, but he allegedly said he “could not do anything” about it.

More Women May Come Forward

Following the publication of the article, Yi Zhou posted more photos and chat screenshots online to confirm that their relationship was genuine. In her latest update, Zhou stated that another woman had reached out, alleging that Renner was also dating her during the same time.

Zhou hinted she will soon give a second interview to The Daily Mail alongside this anonymous woman.

As of now, Jeremy Renner has not released an official statement regarding these allegations. Zhou claims the actor has launched a smear campaign using fake social media accounts to discredit her.

The controversy continues to grow, with Hollywood insiders awaiting a response from the actor or his representatives.