Jeremy Renner Denies Harassment Allegations Made by Yi Zhou

Jeremy Renner has categorically rejected filmmaker Yi Zhou’s harassment allegations, describing them as “totally inaccurate and untrue.” The “Avengers” and “Hawkeye” star responded after Zhou published a series of detailed accusations on Instagram, where she used hashtags including “#CancelJeremyRenner” to draw attention to her claims.

Zhou alleges that her interactions with Renner began in June when, according to her posts, the actor sent her “a string of unsolicited pornographic images” through direct messages and WhatsApp. The filmmaker claims Renner initially presented himself as genuinely interested in her professionally and personally, which she described as a calculated effort to “seduce” her.

In her most serious allegation, Zhou detailed an encounter on August 20 during which she claims Renner became “violent” after consuming alcohol. According to her account, the situation escalated to the point where she felt compelled to lock herself in a room out of fear for her safety.

Speaking through a representative to Variety, Renner firmly denied all accusations. “The allegations being made are totally inaccurate and untrue,” the statement read. His legal team has not provided additional comment on the matter, maintaining a limited public response to the accusations.

The controversy emerges during what was apparently a period of professional collaboration between the two. Industry sources indicate Renner and Zhou were involved in multiple projects together, including “Chronicles of Disney,” a documentary under Zhou’s direction, and an animated feature titled “Stardust Future: Stars and Scars,” which was to feature Renner in a voice acting role.

According to Variety, “Stardust Future: Stars and Scars” had been scheduled for a limited theatrical release in November, intended to qualify for awards consideration. The report noted that proceeds from the film were earmarked for the Rennervation Foundation, Renner’s charitable organization which gained prominence following the actor’s near-fatal snowplow accident in January 2023.

Zhou has continued to document her perspective on social media, framing her experience as representative of “the dark side of Hollywood.” In subsequent posts, she claimed to have been “destroyed by a set-up of smear campaigns” while noting she has received support from industry colleagues and friends.

The allegations come at a sensitive time for Hollywood, which continues to reckon with power dynamics and misconduct in the wake of the #MeToo movement. While high-profile accusations have decreased in frequency since the movement’s peak, industry observers note that the entertainment sector remains under scrutiny regarding workplace conduct and accountability.

Neither Zhou nor Renner has made additional public statements since their initial comments. Representatives for both the filmmaker and actor have not responded to requests for further clarification on the status of their previously planned collaborative projects.

Renner, 53, has been gradually returning to public life and professional commitments following his lengthy recovery from the snowplow accident that left him with more than 30 broken bones. The Oscar-nominated actor recently completed filming the third season of “Mayor of Kingstown” and has been increasing his public appearances at industry events.

The controversy highlights the complex intersection of personal and professional relationships in the entertainment industry, particularly in situations involving established stars and emerging filmmakers. As the situation develops, industry stakeholders will be watching closely for potential legal proceedings or additional statements from either party.