Jeremy Renner accused of threatening filmmaker with ICE: What to know about the explosive controversy
Jeremy Renner accused of ICE threat against filmmaker. Image Credit: Getty Images
Hollywood actor Jeremy Renner, 54, has been accused by Chinese filmmaker Yi Zhou, 34, of threatening to report her to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after she confronted him about alleged misconduct. Zhou, who worked with Renner on two films in 2025, claims the “Hawkeye” star sent her unsolicited pornographic images over Instagram and WhatsApp in June 2025, marking the start of a turbulent professional and personal interaction.
Accordingto Zhou, the situation escalated after a meeting at Renner’s Reno, Nevada home, during which the actor allegedly drank heavily and became aggressive and intimidating. Zhou said she feared for her life and had to lock herself in a room while Renner allegedly yelled for hours. “I was so scared for my life,” Zhou told the Daily Mail, underscoring the intensity of the alleged confrontation.
Alleged Misconduct and Explicit Messages
Zhou shared screenshots of her WhatsApp exchanges with Renner, including alleged explicit video clips sent without consent. She stated that Renner pursued her despite her lack of interest and that their brief romantic involvement was complicated by his behavior. The filmmaker also accused Renner of using their professional collaborations for personal advantage while denying her contributions publicly.
Social media speculation arose after Zhou posted videos of herself with Renner near his home, prompting fans to question the nature of their relationship. Zhou’s Instagram posts highlighted her fear after confronting Renner about his alleged misconduct, claiming he threatened to use immigration authorities as a tool of intimidation, an allegation that shocked many observers.
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Renner’s History of Allegations and Legal Issues
This controversy is not the first time Jeremy Renner has faced public allegations. In 2019, his ex-wife, Sonni Pacheco, accused him of dangerous drug use and threatening behavior during a contentious custody battle. Court documents revealed claims that Renner threatened both himself and Pacheco, though he has consistently denied wrongdoing. Renner and Pacheco now share joint custody of their daughter.
Additionally, Renner survived a near-fatal snowplow accident in 2023, which left him with severe injuries and required extensive hospitalization. The combination of past personal struggles and recent allegations adds complexity to the ongoing public scrutiny surrounding the actor, raising questions about his conduct in both professional and personal settings.
Hollywood Response and Public Reaction
Yi Zhou framed her accusations as a broader commentary on how women and Asian filmmakers are treated in Hollywood. She described the situation as emblematic of ongoing industry misconduct, highlighting power imbalances and systemic challenges in film production. Zhou’s posts have sparked discussion on social media, drawing attention to alleged celebrity abuse and workplace harassment.
Representatives for Renner have not publicly responded to these claims as of now. The ongoing narrative has intensified public interest in the actor’s conduct and the broader conversation around accountability in Hollywood, especially concerning high-profile figures.
Implications for Hollywood and ICE Controversy
The alleged ICE threat has brought additional attention to Renner’s conduct, highlighting concerns about misuse of power and intimidation tactics. Zhou’s account has raised questions about how immigration status can be weaponized in personal disputes, sparking debate on social media and industry forums.
While legal authorities have not confirmed any ICE involvement, the story underscores the potential intersection of celebrity influence, workplace misconduct, and immigration fears. Industry insiders suggest the controversy may impact Renner’s reputation and professional opportunities if substantiated.
FAQ
Q1: What did Jeremy Renner allegedly do to Yi Zhou?
A1: Yi Zhou accused Jeremy Renner of sending unsolicited explicit images and threatening to report her to ICE after confronting him about misconduct.
Q2: Did Jeremy Renner threaten ICE?
A2: Zhou claims that Renner threatened to call U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on her, which she said caused significant fear.
Q3: Who is Yi Zhou?
A3: Yi Zhou is a 34-year-old Chinese filmmaker who collaborated with Renner on two films in 2025 and shared allegations of misconduct publicly.
Q4: Has Jeremy Renner faced similar allegations before?
A4: Yes, Renner’s ex-wife, Sonni Pacheco, accused him of threats and dangerous behavior during their 2019 custody dispute. Renner denied these allegations.
Q5: Are there legal consequences for Renner over these allegations?
A5: As of now, no legal actions related to the ICE threat or alleged misconduct have been reported, though public scrutiny continues.
Q6: What impact could this controversy have on Hollywood?
A6: The accusations contribute to ongoing discussions about workplace misconduct, power imbalances, and protections for female and immigrant filmmakers in the industry.
Q7: How has the public reacted to the allegations?
A7: Social media and news outlets have amplified the controversy, with discussions on celebrity accountability, industry misconduct, and ethical behavior in filmmaking.
