Shi Pei Pu was a Chinese opera singer and performer known for his unique life story. Born in 1938, he gained fame in the 1960s and 1970s for his performances in traditional Chinese opera, particularly in the role of female characters, which was common in that art form. In the 1980s, Shi became widely known outside of China due to his involvement in a high-profile espionage case. He was recruited by the Chinese government to spy on the United States, leading to a controversial trial that highlighted issues of loyalty and identity.