A Chinese movie star has been denied bail following an alleged sexual assault in Sydney.
Yunxiang Gao, 36, will remain behind bars after his appeal for bail was denied at Sydney's Central Local Court on Tuesday.
The actor pleaded not guilty to two counts of sexual assault, following an alleged incident involving a 36-year-old woman at Sydney's Shangri La hotel on March 27.
Another man, 35, was charged over the alleged incident.
Magistrate Sharon Freund refused bail based on the seriousness of the allegations, which carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"The facts alleged against Mr Gao by the prosecution make a very sobering read," she said.
Gao's lawyer argued that his client, who he referred to as "the Hugh Jackman of China", would be happy to comply to strict bail conditions.
The court heard that the alleged victim contacted police immediately following the incident and that bruises were found on her legs.
The court room was "absolutely at capacity" during the hearing, the NSW Justice department told the ABC.
A scrum of Chinese journalists were forced to wait outside of the court room due to the lack of space, and there were even reports of scuffles between reporters for access to the room.
The case continues.
