Zhang Yimou Admits to Having Multiple Children

Film and 2008 Olympics opening ceremony director Zhang Yimou admitted Sunday that he has three children with his current wife, in defiance of China's standing one-child policy.

The admission, made through Zhang's Weibo account, stated that "Zhang Yimou and his wife Chen Ting confirm they have two sons and a daughter, and welcome an investigation by the Hubin District [part of the city of Wuxi in Jiangsu province] Family Planning Office." Zhang also used the statement to reject claims that he had seven or eight children, and that one or more of his children was mentally challenged.

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Best known as the director of the 2008 Olympic Games' opening ceremony, rumors that he had multiple children circulated earlier this year and resurfaced recently, forcing Sunday's confession. Chen is Zhang's second wife. He was previously married to Hua Xie from 1978-1988, with whom he has a daughter, although Zhang's best known relationship was that with his leading lady, Gong Li, who became the top Chinese actress of her generation via his films, including Red Sorghum and Raise the Red Lantern.

Zhang could be liable for a fine of up to RMB 160 million, according to the Xinhua News Agency.

The move comes against the backdrop of a slight loosening in the policy, giving more latitude for some couples to have a second child.

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Image: tasteofcinema.com