Once famous for her stunning looks and huge social media following, streamer Zhang Xiangxiang recently became the center of controversy after a fan accused her of exploiting his feelings to get him to keep spending money.
The fan claims that after spending more than 500 million VND (about $21,000), he only got to meet his idol once for less than 10 minutes.
According to the fan, he started following the streamer through her livestreams and quickly became a loyal supporter.
After some time interacting, they moved to messaging apps, and he began to believe their relationship went beyond a typical streamer-viewer connection. During their chats, Zhang Xiangxiang often promoted products and personal projects. Wanting to support her, the fan kept buying items and sending gifts through the livestream platform.
He said he spent a large amount on photo shoots promoted by the streamer and continued purchasing other products she advertised on social media. Adding donations during live broadcasts, the total reportedly exceeded 500 million VND. However, despite his long-term support, he only got one brief in-person meeting with Zhang Xiangxiang that lasted less than 10 minutes before they parted ways.
Whenever the fan asked for another meeting, Zhang Xiangxiang declined citing busy work schedules or job-related rules. Their communication gradually faded until it almost stopped. Feeling emotionally used, the fan believes Zhang Xiangxiang’s words and interactions misled him about their relationship, causing him to keep spending money hoping for something more.
Meanwhile, Zhang Xiangxiang denies the accusations. She insists all purchases and gifts were voluntary from fans. She says she never promised any romantic relationship or asked anyone to pay for chances to meet her.
After the story went public, it sparked heated debate online. Some say the fan had unrealistic expectations about his relationship with an internet idol. Others argue that streamers and influencers should be more careful in how they interact with fans to avoid misunderstandings.
Regardless of who’s right, this case highlights the delicate line between admiration, emotional expectations, and huge spending in today’s livestream culture. Even simple caring messages or encouragement can lead fans to hope for more, only to be disappointed when reality doesn’t match their dreams.
