Simu Liu Directly Addresses The Viral Cultural Appropriation Controversy
Popular Marvel star Simu Liu has spoken out regarding a cultural appropriation controversy that erupted after his appearance on CBC‘s Dragons’ Den on October 10. In the episode, Liu — who was featured as a guest investor — expressed concerns over a pitch by two Quebec City entrepreneurs for their ready-to-drink bubble tea business called “Bobba.”
The business founders, Sebastien Fiset and Jess Frenette, sought a $1 million investment in exchange for 18% equity in their company. They claimed their product offered a more convenient and “healthier” version of the popular Asian beverage, including innovations such as the first alcoholic ready-to-drink bubble tea and a grab-and-go popping boba option.
However, Liu took issue with the fact that the business had no clear Asian representation or consultation involved in its creation or marketing, something he felt was critical for a product with deep cultural ties to Asia. He highlighted his discomfort with the idea of “improving” a beverage that holds significant cultural importance to many, particularly the Chinese community.
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
@itskathleenngo i dont usually post content like this, but here I am. #culturalappropiation #bobba #simuliu #dragonsden
Although one of the entrepreneurs explained that a Taiwanese partner was involved in recipe development, Liu remained unsatisfied, ultimately declining to invest. He emphasized that while he supports bringing bubble tea to a broader audience, he would not back a business that failed to respect its cultural origins.
I am studying your can and I am looking for anything that tells me where boba came from, and where boba came from is Taiwan. You know, I started this venture company for a lot of reasons, but really, primarily to uplift minority entrepreneurs.
And not only do I feel like this is not happening here, but that I would be uplifting a business that is profiting off of something that feels so dear to my cultural heritage. 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
@cbcgem This bottled bubble tea business pitches to celebrity Dragon Simu Liu and the rest of the Dragons (📺: Dragons’ Den) #dragonsden #simuliu ♬ original sound – CBC Gem
Following the episode, the situation quickly gained traction online, with many people weighing in on both sides of the debate. Fans not only criticized the business owners but some even felt that the other investors on the panel had not been fully supportive of Liu’s concerns about cultural appropriation.
On October 12, Liu took to TikTok to address the escalating controversy. He expressed his disappointment over reports that the “Bobba” founders had been receiving hostile comments and threats, urging people to engage in education and constructive criticism rather than resorting to attacks.
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
He also clarified the reactions of his fellow investors, explaining that the rapid pace of filming doesn’t always allow for thorough responses. Liu reassured fans that both the show’s crew and the other investors were supportive of his views, even if it wasn’t fully apparent on camera.
I also wanna say that some of my fellow [investors] have been catching some strays and… 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 becasue the camera’s rolling and so.. I can tell you for a fact that the show, producers and crew was so supportive of what I had to say. And in terms of the other investors, in the break room everyone was all ears.
— Simu Liiu via TikTok
@simuliusome thoughts on boba/bobba 🧋lets be kind to each other!♬ original sound – Simu Liu
The video has since been making the rounds on social media, especially TikTok, with fans thanking Liu for intervening once again.
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