Speculation about a rift began in late 2024, sparked by the couple’s declining public appearances and their absence from each other’s major family events, according to Sinchew.

Dou skipped the tomb-sweeping ceremony for Laurinda’s father, casino tycoon Stanley Ho, and her mother Ina Chan’s birthday celebration. The pair also remains childless, which has further fueled public curiosity.

Laurinda’s candid comments during talk show appearances have added to the rumors. She has mentioned “moving on from love-driven thinking,” focusing more on her career, and even plans to freeze her eggs—statements interpreted by many as allusions to personal struggles.

Footage from events shows a lack of closeness between the couple, with Laurinda often walking ahead of Shawn and little sign of affection. Insiders suggest that career differences may be a source of tension, with Shawn reportedly struggling to find his footing within the powerful Ho family’s business circles.

Online rumors claim the two have been living apart for several months. There are also reports of Laurinda’s mother keeping her distance from Shawn and excluding him from family gatherings, in contrast to other in-laws like Ming Xi, who has been embraced by her branch of the Ho family.

Though the couple attempted to quiet speculation—with Shawn posting a simple “Hbd!!” on Instagram for Laurinda’s birthday on May 9 and her responding with emojis—many found the interaction cold and unconvincing.

Observers note a shift in the couple’s dynamic, from an initially public and romantic relationship to a more restrained and distant one. While they still show up for major occasions, their everyday presence in each other’s lives seems to have diminished. Reactions have been mixed—some fans defend the couple’s privacy, while others view the signs as confirmation of marital strain.

Dou, 37, first gained recognition in the acting world for his role in “Under the Hawthorn Tree,” directed by Zhang Yimou. His filmography also includes notable titles such as “Dangerous Liaisons,” “Time to Love,” and “Princess Agents.”

Laurinda, 34, is a socialite, businesswoman, and actress, with her first film project releasing its traile rearlier this month. She is the daughter of Stanley and his third wife Ina Chan.

Stanley passed away in 2020 at the age of 99. In 2019, Bloomberg estimated his net worth at around US$14.9 billion, ranking him as the 17th wealthiest individual in Asia at the time. Following his death, the majority of his fortune was divided among his daughter Pansy, his fourth wife Angela Leong, and his son Lawrence.

Meanwhile, Forbes estimates 70-year-old Chan’s net worth to be approximately US$1 billion.