Marvel introduces Asian superhero played by Simu Liu, but Awkwafina’s supporting role spurs backlash

by Anagha Srikanth | April 19, 2021 | Apr. 19, 2021

Story at a glance

Simu Liu, known for his role in “Kim’s Convenience,” is starring in Marvel’s “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.”
Comedian and rapper Awkwafina, who has been accused of cultural appropriation, is playing a supporting role in the film.
The film will be released in the United States on Sept. 3.

While Simu Liu admitted he was “pretty f—ing angry” about the cancellation of “Kim’s Convenience,” the sitcom that brought him international fame, a starring role in a Marvel superhero film is quite a consolation prize. On the Canadian actor’s 32nd birthday, the comic company released the trailer of Liu’s upcoming film, “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.”

Whoever said that you could only RECEIVE presents on your birthday? Today, I’m giving you your VERY FIRST LOOK at the teaser poster for @ShangChi and the Legend of the Ten Rings!!

Coming to theatres September 3rd (trailer drops in a few weeks).

WE’RE ALMOST THERE, PEOPLE!!!! pic.twitter.com/Kzgkg8djeQ

— Simu Liu (@SimuLiu) April 19, 2021

Liu will play Shang-Chi, also known as the Master of Kung Fu and Brother Hand in Marvel comics, in the character’s live-action debut, set for release on Sept. 3. The role had special meaning for Liu, who shared in a video that as a struggling actor playing superheroes for childrens’ birthday parties, he was only allowed to play characters with masks because of his race. So when Marvel announced its plans for Shang Chi, he tweeted at Marvel, “Hey are we going to talk or what?”

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They did him one better, offering him a role in the Marvel cinematic universe that even got Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau talking.

Thanks to Canadian Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau for a truly epic sendoff.

Here’s to continuing to advocate for diversity, equality, and inclusion on screen and in life.

As the sun sets on our humble little show, may its legacy and its values live on. #OKSeeYou https://t.co/ATYCW0QB3u

— Simu Liu (@SimuLiu) April 14, 2021

The symbolism of an Asian superhero comes as reports of anti-Asian hate crimes are surging in the United States — but was undercut to some by the appearance of Awkwafina, who plays a supporting role in the film, in the trailer. Online, critics of the former comedian and rapper decried her casting, noting past accusations that the actress culturally appropriated Black culture without credit, including a “Blaccent,” or an accent modeled after African American Vernacular English.

Reminder: awkwafina built a career using Blaccent, then she dropped it to get into acting. https://t.co/pVZ93pDQ22

— Thad (@will_thad) April 19, 2021

oh Awkwafina is going to hell………. @voIcanicloves pic.twitter.com/R4y8o6ubiH

— 5TEPH (@blkvrsce) April 19, 2021

America is changing faster than ever! Add Changing America to your Facebook or Twitter feed to stay on top of the news.

Still, the trailer’s reception was overall positive and the trailer had over 3 million views on YouTube by the afternoon.

First look at #ShangChi, “a sweeping superhero epic that combines emotional family drama with gravity-defying martial arts action.” Cannot wait!!! https://t.co/N5ey6jnXLH pic.twitter.com/ZAfOAAisc9

— Nancy Wang Yuen 王嵐芝 (@nancywyuen) April 19, 2021

The shots in this first #ShangChi teaser are outstanding. I have a feeling these fights are going to give us some of the best action we’ve seen in a Marvel movie yet. pic.twitter.com/45Bg8AAmXk

— Erik Davis (@ErikDavis) April 19, 2021