China’s biggest #MeToo case between Zhou Xiaoxuan and CCTV host Zhu Jun delayed amid claims of online harassment

Zhou Xiaoxuan, also known as Xianzi, 28, is suing CCTV anchor Zhu Jun for forcibly kissing her in 2014

It is rare in China for such cases to reach trial and many women are still reluctant to come forward

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Zhou Xiaoxuan, centre, weeps as she speaks to her supporters upon arrival at a courthouse in Beijing for the first hearing in her sexual harassment case. Photo: AP

Guo Ruiin GuangzhouandPhoebe Zhangin Shenzhen

Published: 6:00pm, 21 May 2021Updated: 10:25pm, 23 May 2021

The second hearing in a landmark sexual harassment case between a #MeToo survivor against a prominent TV host was abruptly cancelled on Friday.

The cancellation has illustrated the difficulties faced by sexual harassment victims in China who seek legal justice.

Zhou Xiaoxuan, also known as Xianzi, 28, is suing CCTV anchor Zhu Jun for forcibly kissing her in 2014. She is demanding a public apology from Zhu and 50,000 yuan (US$7,600) in damages.

The first hearing was held on December 2 at the Haidian District Court in Beijing, with no immediate verdict given.

Supporters of Zhou Xiaoxuan display posters outside the Haidian District People’s Court in Beijing on December 2, 2020. Photo: AFP

On Friday morning, Zhou and her two lawyers received a notice from the court that the hearing was postponed without any explanation given and no date set for a new hearing.

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