Pianist Li Yundi Prostitution Scandal Hits Fever Pitch

Beijing police detained Chinese pianist Li Yundi on October 21 on allegations of soliciting a prostitute, triggering waves of online condemnation against the international celebrity. Once a child prodigy, Li, now 29, won a place in China’s middle school English textbooks as a young role model. Shocked by the allegations against Li, many criticized him online. The shaming quickly escalated to slander, and rumors spread about Li’s private life. Unconfirmed photos of the alleged prostitute he visited circulated on Sina Weibo. However, cooler heads on social media prevailed, saying that authorities are already dealing with Li and no one has the right to abuse him or invade his privacy.