Renowned wuxia director Zhang Jizhong, 73, and his wife Du Xinglin recently made a vlog addressing rumors about their son, Martin. Du Xinglin began by saying, “Hi everyone, today we decided to share a few things that you have always been curious about. Our Martin (Ma Ding)—who’s son is he? Many online often speculate that Martin is director Zhang’s illegitimate son. In reality, Martin is my son.” This revelation trended on Chinese social media under the hashtag “Zhang Jizhong husband and wife’s response on mixed-race son’s identity (#张纪中夫妇回应混血儿身世#).”
Having More Kids at Their Advanced Age: 70s and 40s
Du Xinglin continued, “That year, because I didn’t have an appropriate partner but I liked kids a lot, I decided to have my own child through IVF. On my own, I can give my child and myself a very good life.” Speaking fondly about her director husband, she said, “Luckily, my Martin has a very loving and responsible father. He helps Martin with homework, teaches him swimming and horseback riding, and often puts Martin to bed when he’s occasionally afraid of the dark.”
The 73-year-old wuxia director said that he doesn’t usually mind online rumors but hopes to provide a healthy and happy environment for their child. “My wife and I both love kids very much, but unfortunately, my previous marriage that lasted 13 years didn’t give me a child. I have deep regrets and felt lacking.” He explained that’s why at 73, and his wife at 42, they’re having more kids. He added, “I feel like kids are not just the succession of life but also the vitality and source of happiness in the family.”
His 3rd Marriage
Du Xinglin is Zhang Jizhong’s third wife. He has an eldest daughter from his first marriage, and his second marriage, which lasted almost 30 years, did not produce children. Many thought that Martin was Zhang Jizhong’s son with another woman, but it turns out he’s Du Xinglin’s eldest son. She’s now expecting her fourth child.
Du Xinglin shared, “Since I revealed I was pregnant in March, many netizens were shocked and questioning it, even coming up with ridiculous rumors to say it’s the driver’s son… We did not respond because we feel it’s our private matter. Recently, a fan sent a message that resonated deeply with me. She wasn’t able to have a child with her husband of 10 years…” Hence, they decided to share their story as older parents, and hope to inspire others as well.
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