Simu Liu, despite reaching high levels of fame akin to Marvel’s success, expresses his frustration with Hollywood and his career trajectory. The Canadian actor contends that the industry still views Asian-led projects as risky endeavors, despite the proven track record of recent box office hits such as “Crazy Rich Asians,” “Minari,” “The Farewell,” “Past Lives,” and “Everything Everywhere All at Once.” Liu emphasizes that these projects have been both critically acclaimed and financially successful, debunking the notion of risk associated with them.
Moreover, Liu highlights the success of his role in the 2021 Marvel film “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” which grossed $432 million globally, making it one of the standout hits during the pandemic. Alongside his acting career, Liu has ventured into voice acting, music, reality TV, and hosting various award shows.
Despite his diverse portfolio, Liu feels that securing leading roles remains a challenge as studios tend to revert to safer options amidst budget constraints. Liu elucidates that decision-makers in Hollywood predominantly consist of white individuals, which impacts the industry’s approach to diversity and risk-taking.
Liu draws parallels between his personal experiences and his character in the spy thriller series “The Copenhagen Test,” where he plays Alexander Hale, a Chinese American intelligence analyst confronting challenges related to his immigrant background. The show, created by Thomas Brandon and executive produced by James Wan and Liu, delves into themes of immigrant identity without reducing the character solely to this aspect.
As Liu reflects on the state of Asian representation in Hollywood, he notes a concerning regression in recent years, with a decline in speaking roles for Asian characters. He attributes this trend to a disconnect among decision-makers and cites examples like the delayed sequel to “Crazy Rich Asians” and the initial skepticism towards the successful film “KPop Demon Hunters.”
Looking ahead, Liu remains grateful for the opportunities he has and eagerly anticipates his return to the spotlight in upcoming projects like “Marvel’s Avengers: Doomsday” and his Broadway debut in “Oh, Mary!” He emphasizes the importance of staying true to his passion for acting amid industry challenges and frustrations.