Filmmaker Yi Zhou publicly accused Marvel star Jeremy Renner of sexual misconduct and intimidation after confronting him about inappropriate behavior. Zhou claims Renner threatened to report her to U.S. immigration authorities following their disputes. These allegations surfaced in June 2025 when Zhou detailed her experiences on social media.
Details of the Alleged Misconduct and Relationship
Yi Zhou, who collaborated with Renner on a documentary about Disney’s legacy and an animated feature, later entered a romantic relationship with the actor. Zhou revealed that Renner initiated contact by sending unsolicited explicit images through direct messages and WhatsApp.
“In June 2025, out of the blue I received 2 photos of Jeremy Renner and then a string of unwanted / unsolicited pornographic images of himself via DM and Whatspp, that was his introduction to me,”
Zhou wrote on Instagram.
She further accused Renner of using similar methods to approach other women. Zhou shared screenshots of explicit messages including an image accompanied by a drooling emoji, denying fan claims that these interactions were fabricated using artificial intelligence.
Renner’s Denial and Zhou’s Continued Accusations
A spokesperson for Jeremy Renner responded to these claims stating,
“the accusations being made by this individual are totally inaccurate and untrue.”
Despite this rebuttal, Zhou continued to publish WhatsApp conversations to support her account.
She alleged that Renner was under the influence of alcohol during a two-hour outburst where he shouted at her, causing her to feel “so scared for my life” and seek refuge in her room. Zhou insists she did not pursue the relationship, but he initiated it and subsequently rejected both her and their collaborative work.
“He used me and denied me and denied our work,”
she stated.
Claims of Threats and Impact on Asian Female Filmmakers
Zhou revealed exchanges where Renner allegedly threatened to report her to immigration authorities. In one message she shared with the Daily Mail, Renner purportedly warned,
“immigration will be notified of your-”
though she withheld the remainder of the message.
Zhou expressed profound frustration with Hollywood’s treatment of women, particularly Asian female filmmakers, suggesting a systemic effort to silence and discredit victims.
“This experience really shows the dark side of Hollywood and the smear campaign to deter women and Asian female filmmakers and women in general,”
she wrote.
“I’m appalled but happy to read also many support from friends and media that will continue to uncover domestic abuse, abuse of women and the unwanted unsolicited porn attack against innocent young women. I love Hollywood, but we need to stop the cover up for misconduct affecting other women.”
Significance and Future Implications
The allegations against Jeremy Renner highlight ongoing challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. Zhou’s case underscores concerns about abusive power dynamics and intimidation tactics used to silence victims. As these accusations circulate, they may prompt further scrutiny of misconduct within Hollywood and inspire more survivors to come forward with their stories.
