Overseasidol.com — Chinese TV host and actress Zhu Dan faced intense criticism online after revealing on a reality show that she placed her son and daughter in the same mixed-age kindergarten class, sparking accusations of favoritism toward her son.
She explained that the intention was to let her daughter help care for her younger brother, prompting many netizens to accuse her of “valuing sons over daughters”.
On June 18, Zhu Dan issued a public statement to address the controversy.
She clarified that her daughter was never held back a grade, and that both children are enrolled in a legal mixed-age educational system (ages 3–7).
Zhu apologized sincerely for the misunderstanding caused by her words, acknowledging the discomfort her remarks may have brought viewers.
She admitted her expression was flawed and promised to reflect and improve.
“Peach Blossom Dock was a dream utopia for me,” she wrote, referring to the show.
Zhu added, “But my nervousness during the early days affected how I came across. I never intended to give off a bad impression,”.
She ended her note by thanking viewers for their criticism and support, and emphasized her sincerity in participating in the show.
