He Jiong recently made it to the Weibo top searches, after clips of him shedding tears during the Hunan TV’s New Year’s Eve event made rounds on the internet.
The TV personality, who has years of hosting experience, was seen holding back tears when the topic of the COVID-19 pandemic was brought up and choked up when expressing his admiration and gratitude to the medical frontliners.
“The most important people to thank is the medical staff who have been standing in front of us. You were also afraid like us, but you still rushed forward without hesitation. 2022 is about to pass, and I want to say thank you for your hard work!” he expressed.
Following the release of the clips, some netizens accused He of trying to play to the crowd and mocked him for his excessive emotions.
However, soon after, several sources came forward to defend him, alleging that He was not faking his tears as his father had just passed away prior to the said event. Another stated that He’s father was tested positive for COVID-19 some time ago and became seriously ill before he passed away on 31 December.
Neither He nor Hunan TV have addressed the said reports.
(Photo Source: He Jiong Weibo, Netease News)