Chinese grandma writes love letters to AI “bossy president” and wants to marry him

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An 84-year-old woman in China has become an internet sensation after developing romantic feelings for an AI chatbot designed to play the role of a demanding leader. She’s even written him love letters and is thinking about marrying him.

Zhang Yulan, a woman from Hubei province, is said to spend over 10 hours each day watching videos of AI-created men on platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels.

Her main focus is a virtual character called Jianguo, designed as a “bossy president”—a common figure in Chinese romance stories. This type of character is a powerful, controlling man who reserves his affection exclusively for the person he loves.

Reports indicate that Zhang genuinely believed she was in a romantic relationship with the AI. She didn’t just text it; she even wrote a heartfelt love letter in February, apologizing for a disagreement and asking if it was angry with her.

AI president shut down after grandma spends over $1,000 on it

Her family grew worried when they found out she’d spent more than 7,000 yuan (about $1,000) on things from the AI character’s online store. They were especially concerned because many of the items were much more expensive than they were elsewhere.

Things got worse in March when she bought 1,200 yuan worth of books the virtual character suggested. This led her granddaughter to report the account to the police.

Even after regulators closed the account to fight online scams, similar AI-powered profiles are still popping up and seem to be targeting people who are easily tricked.

This situation is raising worries about AI-created content and how it affects older adults. Studies show that as people age and their thinking skills change, combined with feelings of loneliness and a desire for connection, they may be more likely to develop strong emotional bonds with AI characters.

AI chatbots aren’t just attracting the attention of older adults. A recent study by the Center for Democracy and Technology revealed that about 20% of high school students either know someone or have personally experienced a romantic connection with an AI chatbot.

Another survey found that 40% of adults would date an AI chatbot and have already flirted with one.

Chatbots are only a small part of what’s possible with artificial intelligence, and things are advancing quickly. Recently, a company in China developed a highly realistic robot intended to be a companion. This robot, which responds to human touch and emotion, is projected to cost about $173,000.

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2026-03-27 18:49