Zhang Ziyi sues HK newspaper

Zhang Ziyi

Actress Zhang Ziyi has sued Hong Kong's newspaper Apple Daily and its sister weekly Next Magazine over claims that she was sexually involved with senior officials and wealthy individuals for money.

The Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon star signed the suit presented to the Hong Kong High Court on Monday, saying the reports were "seriously defamatory" and "false".

"The plaintiff has been subjected to public odium, hatred, contempt or ridicule," the suit signed by the 33-year-old actress said, adding it would seek unspecified damages.

"The plaintiff's public image has also been seriously and continuously undermined, which has caused and will continue to cause loss and damage to her profession and career."

Apple Daily, a Chinese-language newspaper known for racy celebrity gossip, did not reply to requests for comment on the suit.

The story was removed from the newspaper's website after Zhang threatened to sue last month.

Apple Daily and Next Magazine are owned by Hong Kong entrepreneur Jimmy Lai's Next Media.

Apple Daily editor-in-chief Cheung Kim-hung and Next Magazine's chief editor Li Chi-ho were also named as defendants in the suit.

A spokesman for the actress, whose other films include Memoirs of a Geisha and Rush Hour 2, said in a post on Chinese social media that Zhang "will not tolerate the recent irresponsible media rumors".

"The legal proceedings mean that we have started down the road to maintaining her legal rights and interests. Justice can be expected soon," the spokesman said.