‘Nudity’: China influencer hit for profiting from live-stream of wife’s childbirth
South China Morning Post
by Yating YangFebruary 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A Chinese influencer with over 12 million followers has faced significant backlash after streaming his wife’s 23-hour childbirth on live video, including moments of severe post-partum bleeding and graphic images of her body. The husband, known as "Paul in USA," who holds a degree from Columbia University and previously worked at Microsoft, recorded the entire labor process despite his wife's distress. His actions sparked outrage, with critics accusing him of exploiting his wife’s pain for profit, even adding advertisements during the stream.
The influencer gained fame by sharing daily life videos on platforms like 163.com, initially showcasing his unique blend of a Northeastern Chinese dialect and life in Seattle as a Microsoft product manager. His following skyrocketed to over 12 million followers by February 2026. However, the childbirth video crossed a line, detailing graphic medical details such as a third-degree perineal tear, which can lead to serious complications like fecal incontinence.
The incident raises broader questions about privacy and ethical content creation, particularly in the influencer space. While some argue it provides rare insights into childbirth realities, many condemn the lack of sensitivity and consent from his wife. This controversy reflects ongoing debates about the boundaries of live-streaming and the responsibilities of influencers, not only in China but globally.
This story matters because it highlights the potential consequences of sharing highly personal and sensitive content online. It also underscores the ethical dilemmas faced by influencers and the importance of respecting privacy and consent. The fallout from this event could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, particularly in Asia where such content often draws significant attention and criticism.
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/23/2026