Simu Liu Slams Hollywood’s “Risky” Label for Asian Actors Despite Box Office Success

Simu Liu has publicly criticized Hollywood‘s ongoing reluctance to cast Asian actors in major roles. The Canadian star of Marvel’s Shang-Chi made the comments while promoting his new espionage series. He argued that Asian-led projects are still unfairly seen as financial risks.

This perception persists even after multiple critical and commercial hits. According to Liu, studios default to familiar formulas, limiting opportunities.

Data Shows a Troubling Decline in Representation

Liu’s critique is supported by recent industry data. A notable study tracked speaking roles for Asian characters in Hollywood films. The share of these roles fell significantly from 2023 to 2024.

This decline occurred as roles for white actors increased. The numbers contradict the proven success of films like Everything Everywhere All at Once. Liu pointed to that film and others as clear evidence of audience demand.

His new show, The Copenhagen Test, mirrors this real-world bias. He plays an intelligence agent whose heritage makes him a “risk” within the story. Liu stated this fictional dynamic reflects a genuine barrier many actors face.

A Persistent Gap Between Success and Opportunity

The core issue is a hesitation to greenlight projects with Asian leads. Liu explained that decision-makers view such casting as inherently more risky. This creates a frustrating cycle for talented performers.

Despite the challenges, Liu’s career continues to ascend. He is set to return in the upcoming Marvel film Avengers: Doomsday. He will also make his Broadway debut next year.

The industry’s slow progress remains a point of contention. Advocacy for consistent, meaningful representation beyond sporadic hits is growing louder. The data suggests there is still a long way to go.

The call from Simu Liu highlights a stubborn disparity in Hollywood. Real change requires moving beyond seeing diversity as a risk. The consistent success of Asian-led stories proves it’s a sound investment.

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What did Simu Liu say about Hollywood?

He stated that Hollywood still sees casting Asian actors in lead roles as a financial risk. He called this unfair, pointing to the success of several major Asian-led films.

Has representation for Asian actors improved?

Recently, data shows it has declined. A study found speaking roles for Asian characters dropped from 18.4% to 13.5% in top films from 2023 to 2024.

What movies did Simu Liu use as examples?

He cited *Crazy Rich Asians*, *Minari*, *The Farewell*, and *Everything Everywhere All at Once*. These films were both critical successes and popular with audiences.

What is Simu Liu’s new show about?

*The Copenhagen Test* is an espionage thriller. Liu plays a Chinese-American agent whose mind is hacked, exploring themes of trust and perception.

What are Simu Liu’s upcoming projects?

He will reprise his role as Shang-Chi in *Avengers: Doomsday*. He is also scheduled to make his Broadway debut in the play *Oh, Mary!* next year.