Xu Lai

Xu Lai. [Photo: People.com.cn]

Xu Lai (1909-1973), nicknamed "Oriental Standard Beauty," rose to fame acting the leading role in a silent movie in 1933. Captivated by Xu's beauty and charm, the lieutenant general Tang Shengming pursued her despite knowing that she had already married a renowned musician. Tang had Xu's personal secretary help him bridge the affair by helping the two exchange letters. One night, Xu's husband came home to find Xu, Tang and the secretary in bed together. Tang proceeded to threaten Xu's husband at gunpoint to agree to a divorce. After the split, Tang was able to marry Xu.