Chinese-born actor Simu Liu has hit back at critics who branded him “too ugly” to play Marvel’s first leading Asian superhero.
The 30-year-old star of the Canadian sitcom ‘Kim’s Convenience’ was announced in the title role of ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings’, which is scheduled for release in February 2021, at Marvel’s San Diego Comic-Con last month.
The movie will reportedly be the first in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to feature an Asian superhero in the main role.
However, not everyone was pleased with the casting choice and YouTube channel ‘Asian Boss’, which boasts 1.7 million subscribers, took to the streets to ask Chinese women whether the Canadian actor is “too ugly” to play the lead role of Shang-Chi.
According the video report, many of the women interviewed did not think that Liu is either good looking or famous enough to play the role.
One woman even said that he looked like a “Wall Street crook” while another would have preferred to see Jackie Chan in the role despite being 35 years older than Liu.
In response, Liu said: “A lot of teachers thought I’d never amount to anything, a lot of producers, directors, writers and co-stars have questioned my acting ability, and I’ve been rejected from countless conservatories, grants, programmes, etc.
“I’ve been second-guessed at every single possible step of my career. The reason why I’m still standing is because I’m singularly focused, I have the utmost belief in my abilities and I refuse to let the opinions of others define me.
He added: “I’m still doing my thing, and I’m still over the moon happy I get this amazing opportunity.
“I sincerely hope this YouTube channel will attack topics with a bit more journalistic and creative integrity in the future.”
Liu has Chinese roots, having been born in Harbin in Heilongjiang and moved to China when he was just five years old.
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Story By: Lee Bullen, Sub-Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Asia Wire Report
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