Man Sues Ex-Wife After Claiming Their Children Are ‘Ugly’

A sensational story involving a man who divorced and sued his wife over the appearance of their children has resurfaced and sparked considerable debate online. In a case that first emerged in 2004, a Chinese man named Jian Feng allegedly took legal action against his ex-wife after she gave birth to what he described as an “ugly baby.”

Initially, Feng suspected his wife of infidelity, believing he could never father an unattractive child. When a DNA test confirmed his paternity, the situation took an unexpected turn. His wife revealed that she had undergone extensive cosmetic surgery, reportedly costing around $100,000, prior to their marriage. This revelation led Feng to claim that she had deceived him regarding her true appearance.

He subsequently filed for divorce and sued his ex-wife for $120,000, citing false pretenses. According to reports from the Irish Times, a judge agreed with Feng’s argument, ruling in his favor. Feng stated, “I married my wife out of love, but as soon as we had our first daughter, we began having marital issues. Our daughter was incredibly ugly, to the point where it horrified me.”

Unpacking the Viral Sensation

The case gained notoriety globally, especially after it went viral around 2012. Various media outlets, including MSN and FOX, reported on the story, often accompanied by a family photograph that purported to illustrate the “ugliness” of the children. However, the image featured in these articles was not actually related to Feng’s family. Instead, it originated from a Taiwanese advertisement for a plastic surgery clinic, featuring model Heidi Yeh. The ad promoted cosmetic procedures and included digitally altered images that misrepresented the children’s appearances.

The misleading portrayal led Yeh to file a lawsuit due to misappropriation of her image, which she claimed damaged her career. The story’s viral nature was fueled by the combination of sensational claims and the misattributed photograph, ultimately resulting in widespread misconceptions regarding both the family and the legal case.

The Source of Controversy

The original story was published in the Heilongjiang Morning Post, a publication known for spreading urban legends without sufficient fact-checking. It has since issued an apology for the misinformation. Such narratives often take on a life of their own, evolving into cautionary tales that sometimes blur the lines between fact and fiction.

As with many urban legends, the tale of Jian Feng has become a cultural touchpoint, illustrating societal perceptions of beauty and the pressures surrounding parenthood. It serves as a reminder of the need for critical engagement with sensational stories circulating in the media.

In conclusion, while Jian Feng’s story captivated audiences and raised questions about beauty standards, it is essential to recognize it as part of a broader narrative rather than a verified account. The interplay of media, public perception, and personal grievances continues to shape how such stories are interpreted and believed.