Huang Xiaoming’s girlfriend Ye Ke says she works hard to avoid relying on others for money

Online influencer Ye Ke. Photo from Ye Ke supertopic Weibo

According to Jimu News, Ye has quickly risen as a prominent figure in China’s livestream e-commerce sector. During a three-hour livestream on July 29, she attracted over 3.7 million viewers and generated 7.5 million yuan (US$1 million) in sales, ranking sixth among the day’s top livestreamers. One bath product she promoted alone brought in more than 1 million yuan.

Her return has drawn public attention, as she had withdrawn from social media in Nov. 2024 following heavy criticism over her relationship with Huang. At the time, she stated her intention to "return to a quieter life and avoid negatively affecting loved ones."

Explaining her comeback, Ye said financial independence was her main motivation.

"I believe people need to work and engage with society," she said. "There’s no shame in earning money. As long as you’re doing honest work and not begging from others, any job is respectable."

Ye, 33, declined to answer questions about Huang. Observers noted that she now presents a more reserved and thoughtful public image. Previously known for controversial remarks—including promoting cosmetic surgery for women—Ye now encourages young women to "avoid overspending on and to prioritize saving for the future."

Huang and Ye confirmed their relationship in Sep. 2024. They reportedly began to date not long after Huang’s divorce from actress Angelababy in 2022.

A graduate of Shenzhen University, Ye has also ventured into entrepreneurship, launching her own fashion brand and opening a beauty salon.

Huang, 47, is one of China’s most prominent actors, with leading roles in major television dramas such as "The Return of the Condor Heroes," "Shanghai Bund," and "Summer’s Desire." He and Angelababy, 35, began dating publicly in 2014, married in 2015, and welcomed a son in 2017.