ABSTRACT
This chapter examines media constructions of failed celebrity intercultural marriages in the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) in four stages. It discusses negative constructions of celebrity intercultural marriage as marked by a high incidence of divorce. Secondly it looks at media speculation surrounding failed celebrity intercultural marriages, helping to explain the fascination of media, celebrities and readers alike. The media is able to capitalize on sensationalist news to increase profits, driven by demand from readers for 'info-tainment' stories and the opportunity to indulge in narratives in which celebrities lose their godly status and become 'ordinary' persons dealing with the earthly problems of divorce and relationship breakdown. The chapter analyses positive constructions of celebrity Chinese-foreign divorce, revealing that they are framed as characterized by the amicable severance of marital relations and ongoing displays of exemplary parenting. Finally it shows that positive constructions of celebrity Chinese-foreign divorce often turn on notions of female autonomy and empowerment.
