Hong Kong actress apologises after brownface portrayal of Filipino domestic worker in TV drama sparks outrage
- Franchesca Wong offers apology on Wednesday, a week after episode of broadcaster TVB’s Barrack O’Karma 1968 series aired
- Show sparked online debate and criticism from Philippine consul general after Wong portrayed character who used voodoo and lied to her bosses
A Hong Kong actress who darkened her skin to play a Filipino domestic worker in a prime-time television drama has broken her silence after a week to apologise.
“I genuinely have no intention to disrespect or racially discriminate [against] any ethnic group, please forgive me for getting it wrong,” Wong said on her Instagram account. “It has been a challenging experience to be at the centre of a lesson that art reflects deeply entrenched social attitudes.”
Canadian-born Wong played domestic helper “Louisa” in Jie Jie Part 1, the first of two parts. Louisa displayed spooky behaviour, used voodoo and lied to her employers in the drama, which was broadcast last Tuesday.
Wong said she had taken some time over the past few days to process her emotions, reflect, speak to members of the community and listen to those who had reached out to her.
“Open sharing, if handled well, can surely only be good in raising awareness of issues that need to be discussed,” she added. “I am committed more than ever to using my acting for the good of the community.”
Wong’s fans were quick to offer their support following the apology, with some saying there was no problem with the episode and others praising the star for her courage in accepting responsibility for her acting.