Back by popular demand, Hong Kong fire service insists beloved character Anyone is here to stay despite reports of a ban
- More than 100 comments posted on department’s Facebook page within an hour in response to rumours that live-action version would be cut
- YouTube video featuring blue mannequin-like figure exceeds 130,000 views
His job is to teach Hongkongers what to do in an emergency, but the hugely popular fire service mascot Anyone had a lucky escape of his own on Wednesday, as the department confirmed the character was here to stay, just hours after reports of a possible ban.
The announcement came as internet users threw their support behind the blue mannequin-like figure, who had gone viral after demonstrating life-saving techniques at a press conference on Monday. The idea behind the name is that any member of the public can help in times of danger.
The performance by firefighters in blue suits won Anyone many fans. But detractors said it resembled a character in some Japanese porn films.
Speaking on a radio programme on Wednesday, Wade Wong Wang-leong, senior divisional officer from the Fire Services Department’s new Community Emergency Preparedness Division, assured the public that the live-action version of Anyone would continue to appear. He did not rule out Anyone visiting districts for promotional events.
“We hope residents will continue to follow Anyone’s future moves,” Wong said.