TLDR: A 75-year-old Chinese man, identified as Jiang, sought a divorce from his wife due to his deep obsession with an AI-generated avatar he encountered on social media. His wife became distressed by his constant phone use, leading to arguments and his demand for divorce to dedicate himself to the virtual companion. His adult children intervened, explaining the nature of AI avatars, which eventually led him to recognize the illusion. This incident highlights a growing trend in China where ‘virtual digital people’ target lonely seniors, simulating affection while promoting products, raising concerns about emotional manipulation and financial exploitation.
In a peculiar case from China, a 75-year-old man, identified only as Jiang, reportedly initiated divorce proceedings against his wife of several decades, driven by an intense infatuation with an artificial intelligence-generated avatar. Jiang became deeply attached to this digital woman, who offered daily greetings, flirted on command, and, unlike real companions, never aged.
According to reports from Beijing Daily, Jiang’s fascination began after he stumbled upon the AI avatar on social media. Despite noticeable imperfections such as ‘stiff expressions and awkward lip-sync,’ the elderly man found himself captivated. He eagerly awaited her pre-programmed messages, which affectionately addressed him as ‘brother’ and expressed gratitude for his companionship. For Jiang, this simulated intimacy was potent enough to overshadow his long-standing marriage.
His wife grew increasingly distressed by his constant engagement with his phone, leading to heated arguments. The situation escalated when Jiang ultimately demanded a divorce, intending to fully commit himself to his virtual partner. The illusion, however, was eventually shattered by the intervention of his adult children, who explained the mechanics and artificial nature of AI avatars, prompting Jiang to confront the reality of his obsession.
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This incident is not an isolated one but rather indicative of a burgeoning industry in China that preys on the loneliness of seniors. These ‘virtual digital people’ are designed not only to simulate affection but also to subtly promote various products, ranging from camel milk to calcium candy, often with dubious health claims. Experts have voiced concerns, stating that ’emotional manipulation and false propaganda targeting the elderly may lead to economic losses and emotional dependence,’ as reported by Sinchew. While Jiang eventually accepted the truth, his brief devotion to an AI persona underscores a troubling trend where parasocial relationships with artificial avatars are blurring the lines of human connection, sometimes to the extent of dismantling real-world relationships.
