Michelle Chen Faces Backlash Over Misleading “Imported” Product

Like many celebrities, Michelle Chen who has shifted much of her career to mainland China in recent years, has also gone into livestream selling. However, the 42-year-old actress was caught in a controversy for promoting a health supplement brand that has now been accused of misrepresenting its origin as an “imported” product.

The brand was recently exposed for promoting itself as “imported from Australia” when it was domestically manufactured. In response, Michelle Chen’s studio issued a public apology, acknowledging oversight in vetting the product during their November 9, 2025 livestream. As part of the remedy, the studio announced a full refund for all affected consumers, regardless of whether the product had been opened or used. Additionally, the studio provided customer service channels, including email support, to process claims and committed to prioritizing consumer protection over brand partnerships. It also stated that cooperation with the implicated brand would be suspended and that stricter internal review standards would be implemented for future collaborations.

Despite the swift response, criticism intensified. Chinese state media subsequently published a commentary warning that celebrities engaging in livestream commerce must adhere strictly to advertising laws. Health products are particularly sensitive, as misleading claims can impact not only consumer rights but also personal safety. It stressed that influencers must not engage in “false or misleading commercial promotion.” Given their public influence, celebrities who fail to properly vet products are described as “accomplices” to unethical merchants, and cannot simply deflect responsibility with claims of ignorance or apologies. The commentary went further, cautioning that celebs’ involvement not only undermined public trust but risked crossing legal boundaries.