Ding Yuxi, one of the most talked-about actors in recent months, after finding fame for his on-screen chemistry with Esther Yu Shuxin in their hit drama Love Game in Eastern Fantasy, has suddenly found their respective fans at odds. Their couple pairing (CP), aptly named “Yu Zhou Zhong Xin” (禹宙中欣), a play on the phrase “center of universe” and a combination of their names Ding (Yu)xi and Yu Shu(xin) has amassed many fans who rejoiced even more to see the two stars interacting sweetly outside of their drama. They were well on their way to have the most amicable fandoms who’re just happy to see their idols.
Esther Yu’s Nickname Online is Fish
However, a seemingly innocent comment by Ding Yuxi has left some divided. When a fan posted a picture of a fish dish on social media, asking, “Do you like fish?” Ding replied, “I’m afraid of fish with bones.” While the response appeared harmless, some connected “fish” (鱼, pronounced yu) to Esther Yu, whose nickname on social media is “Fish.” This led to some believing that Ding Yuxi’s comment was subtly alluding to his CP with Esther Yu. It’s now gotten Netizens digging his past posts from 2019, interpreting them as subtle jabs at Esther and her fandom, nicknamed “Little Pomegranates” (小石榴). But then, there’s literally a clip explaining why he doesn’t like fish. Previously on a show, Ding Yuxi related to fellow actor Zhai Xiaowen as both said they had incidents in their youth where a fish bone got stuck in their throats. Luckily, gulping down vinegar helped.
Allegations of Purifying a CP
Ding Yuxi is accused him of “backstabbing” and trying to “purify” his image by distancing from their CP. In Chinese entertainment slang, “purification” (提纯) refers to a actor stepping back from an on-screen pairing to focus on their solo career, often to avoid being typecast or linked romantically offscreen. The term even trended today. Nonetheless, many simply hope for the fighting to stop and for the two stars to maintain their friendship and collaborate for a third time.
Photos: Yu Shuxin, Ding Yuxi / Weibo
IamAnon
How do people even make the connection? Do y’all not see how sweet they were at the new years event, Tencent Starlight awards, and Weibo night 😭 These two are literally so cute together.
Cc
I think he’s answering in a literal sense and people are making a big fuss out of it. He has said previously that he doesn’t like fish with bones because he’s had it stuck in his throat before. DYX and YSX are obviously very close and on very good terms. They are ridiculously cute together!
Магда
только не третье сотрудничество, пусть оставит ЮйШусинь в покое. Не нужно ей такое КП. Как она вообще на это подписалась???
Didichan
Man thr high level od sucide amongst celebrate is no joke with this level is scrutiny… There is no bE who would be normal. Even something a simple as this has been turned into a fan war! Like people pick up a book or get a Netflix account! Occupy yourself with something other what these actors are doing
Alina
Lmao, they made a far reach with that. No wonder why some idols are not that active on their social. Western idols hire people to manage their social to avoid things like this. Some fans are impossible to please. Please leave your idols alone and just support their work, buy their merch if you can. I read about all the horrible treatments they got from agencies, even toward famous actors and I’m more worried about them being abused and overwork than them saying some innocent comments.