Fans Respond After His Emotional TikTok Post
Marvel star Simu Liu recently addressed a viral cultural appropriation controversy surrounding his appearance on CBC’s Dragons’ Den. The incident, which took place on the October 10 episode, has sparked widespread debate, leading Liu to release a detailed TikTok statement in response to the backlash.
What Happened on Dragons’ Den?
Simu Liu was featured as a guest investor on Dragons’ Den, where entrepreneurs Sebastien Fiset and Jess Frenette from Quebec City pitched their company, Bobba, seeking $1 million for an 18% stake in their ready-to-drink bubble tea business. The company claimed to have a healthier and more convenient version of the popular Asian drink, featuring innovations like the first alcoholic bubble tea and a grab-and-go popping boba option.
However, Liu raised concerns about the lack of Asian representation within the company, questioning the cultural authenticity of the product and its marketing approach. Despite the entrepreneurs stating that they collaborated with a Taiwanese partner for recipe development, Liu was dissatisfied, pointing out that no clear acknowledgment of the cultural origins of bubble tea—Taiwan—was made on their product packaging.
In his own words:
“There’s an issue of cultural appropriation. There’s an issue of taking something that’s very distinctly Asian in its identity and quote, unquote ‘making it better,’ which I have an issue with.”
— Simu Liu
Liu ultimately decided not to invest in the business, emphasizing that while he wanted to see bubble tea reach a wider audience, it should not be at the expense of its cultural significance:
“I want to be a part of bringing boba to the masses, but not like this. So, for that reason, I’m out.”
— Simu Liu
Backlash and Fan Reactions
After the episode aired, the debate over the cultural appropriation of bubble tea gained attention online. Many fans supported Liu’s concerns, criticizing the lack of cultural respect from the business owners. Some also expressed disappointment in the other investors, suggesting they had not fully backed Liu’s stance during the pitch.
Simu Liu’s TikTok Response
On October 12, Simu Liu took to TikTok to address the situation, expressing his dismay over the harsh comments and even threats that the Bobba founders had been receiving. He urged fans to focus on constructive criticism and education, rather than resorting to hateful remarks:
“I have overnight felt myself on the other side of the internet dogpile, and it’s one of the worst things you can go through.”
— Simu Liu via TikTok
Liu also took the time to explain the role of his fellow investors, clarifying that the fast-paced nature of filming sometimes leaves little room for extended discussion. He reassured fans that both the show’s crew and the other investors were supportive of his concerns, even if it didn’t fully come across on camera:
“We have such a short time to formulate our responses… Actions that happen in a blink of an eye and we can’t take them back because the camera’s rolling. I can tell you for a fact that the show, producers, and crew were so supportive of what I had to say.”
— Simu Liu via TikTok
His video quickly gained attention across social media, especially on TikTok, with many fans thanking him for addressing the controversy and continuing to advocate for cultural sensitivity in business ventures.
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