Jeremy Renner Accused of Threatening to Call ICE on Chinese Filmmaking Partner

Hollywood actor Jeremy Renner faces serious new allegations from a former collaborator. Chinese filmmaker and artist Yi Zhou claims the Marvel star sent her unsolicited explicit images and later threatened her. The alleged threat involved Renner stating he would contact U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The accusations were detailed in a series of social media posts and subsequent reports. This incident adds to a history of personal controversies for the actor best known for playing Hawkeye.

Details of the Alleged Threats and Harassment

According to Zhou, the actor initiated contact with her in June 2025. She alleges he sent a string of unwanted pornographic images of himself via WhatsApp. The two had previously formed a romantic and professional relationship, working on a documentary and an animated film together.

The situation reportedly escalated during a meeting at Renner’s home in Nevada. Zhou told the Daily Mail that Renner consumed an entire bottle of wine and became “very very angry.” She claimed he yelled for two hours, causing her to fear for her safety. She reportedly locked herself in a room and shared her location with colleagues and family.

Broader Impact on Renner’s Career and Public Image

These allegations could have significant repercussions for Renner’s career and public standing. According to industry analysts cited by Reuters, studios often reconsider partnerships with actors embroiled in serious personal controversies. The specific nature of these claims makes them particularly damaging.

For the public, this reinforces a pattern of concerning behavior linked to the actor. It directly impacts the perception of a star who has worked to rebuild his image following a near-fatal snowplow accident in 2023. The trust of his fanbase is now under renewed strain.

The serious nature of the accusations against Jeremy Renner, including the alleged ICE threat, marks a pivotal moment for the actor’s legacy. The entertainment industry and the public are now watching closely for his response.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Yi Zhou, the filmmaker accusing Jeremy Renner?

Yi Zhou is a Chinese-born artist and filmmaker. She moved to Italy in her youth and was educated at the London School of Economics before beginning her career in Paris.

What exactly did Jeremy Renner allegedly threaten?

Yi Zhou claims that when she confronted him about his behavior, Renner threatened to call U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on her. She shared a truncated text message that read, “Immigration will be notified of your…”

Has Jeremy Renner responded to these allegations?

As of the latest reports, Jeremy Renner has not issued a public statement addressing Yi Zhou’s specific accusations. Major news outlets like the Associated Press have noted the lack of an official comment from his representatives.

Has Jeremy Renner been involved in past controversies?

Yes. His ex-wife, Sonni Pacheco, previously accused him of threatening to kill her and himself. She also alleged he used drugs irresponsibly around their young daughter. Renner denied those past allegations.

Why is an ICE threat considered so serious?

Threatening to call immigration authorities is widely seen as a form of intimidation and coercion. It leverages a person’s immigration status to silence them or gain power in a dispute, which is an alarming accusation for any public figure.