A Singaporean actor active in China has become embroiled in controversy over derogatory comments about Chinese people. As the controversy spread, the actor clarified that the voice in the leaked recording was not theirs, but the anger of Chinese netizens has not subsided.
On the 10th (local time), according to Singapore's Straits Times and others, claims have been made that actor Eleanor Lee (25) was excluded from the cast list of the Chinese historical drama 'Legendary Journey' due to the controversy over derogatory comments about Chinese people.
The controversial recording was revealed when a person identified as Lee's former manager, A, publicly shared it on social media. The 31-second recording reportedly contains comments such as, “I do this not for honor, but for money,” and “Most Chinese people are stupid.”
Lee clarified that the voice in question is not theirs. They stated on their social media, “I was shocked to hear the recording,” and “I never said such things.” They continued, “I was born in China and came to Singapore at the age of 16. Now at 26, I have spent nearly half my life in China,” adding, “I have received many opportunities and much help here and have been able to shine while doing what I love. I have only love and gratitude for this land.”
Lee's Chinese agency also noted that “the recording circulating online is a manipulated fake voice” and has warned of legal action.
However, Chinese netizens who heard the voice continue to express their anger towards Lee. They reacted strongly, saying, “I can't stand it,” “They should be removed from Chinese drama,” and “arrogant.” Some netizens even demanded that Lee leave China.