Simu Liu Details Hollywood Struggle for Lead Roles

Actor Simu Liu is speaking out about bias in Hollywood. The star of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings says getting lead roles remains an uphill battle. He reveals his new Peacock series is his first leading part since the Marvel hit.

Liu discussed his career challenges in a recent interview. He spoke with The Hollywood Reporter for its podcast. His comments highlight ongoing representation issues for Asian actors.

Simu Liu achieved global fame with 2021’s Shang-Chi. The film was a major box office success during the pandemic. It earned over $432 million worldwide.

Despite this, Liu says leading offers did not flood in. He expected more opportunities after headlining a Marvel movie. That surge did not materialize for him.

“I still very much feel like I have an uphill battle every single day,” Liu told The Hollywood Reporter. He feels the industry perceives him as a risk. This impacts the roles he is offered.

Liu states the projects he sees are often small. He is frequently offered third or fourth lead positions. Some parts are villainous, but rarely the protagonist.

“The Copenhagen Test” on Peacock marks a change. It is his first number one role since his breakout. He stars as government analyst Alexander Hale.

Industry Bias and the Perception of Risk

Liu connects his experience to a broader industry pattern. He believes decision-makers operate with inherent bias. Actors of color are often seen as riskier investments.

“This idea of what is risky and what is a safe bet… I think a lot of times that answer is rooted in inherent bias,” Liu said. He notes white actors face different standards. Their box office failures are rarely held against them.

He points to a line from his new show. A character implies his immigrant background adds “a little more risk.” Liu feels this unspoken logic is common in Hollywood. It limits opportunities for Asian actors.

The actor sees peers like Manny Jacinto facing similar walls. Audiences want to see them, he argues. But gatekeepers are slow to greenlight projects with Asian leads.

Liu has chosen to focus on creating his own path. He took a producer role on “The Copenhagen Test.” He believes entrepreneurship is key for actors of color.

A Shift in Strategy and Future Hopes

Liu’s strategy is now about controlling his narrative. He is developing skills behind the camera. He cites Dev Patel as another example of an actor who creates his own opportunities.

“You can’t just sit around and wait for a director to choose you who’s never gonna choose you,” Liu stated. “You gotta choose yourself.” His goal is to work with admired directors. He acknowledges that may require building the projects himself.

Regarding Marvel, Liu remains open to returning. He is not under a fixed contract. He says the studio will call when they have a plan for Shang-Chi.

He looks back on the film’s success with pride. Liu knows it defied low expectations during a difficult time. He hopes its legacy opens more doors, eventually.

Simu Liu’s candid interview underscores persistent barriers in entertainment. His fight for meaningful lead roles continues to define his career journey. The actor’s resolve highlights the slow march toward equitable representation in Hollywood.

Disclaimer: This article presents the perspectives of the individual interviewed. The views expressed are their own and part of an ongoing industry discussion.

References: The Hollywood Reporter.