Donnie Yen complains about being discriminated against during gala
HONG KONG: Martial arts actor Donnie Yen has complained that he was discriminated against during a recent gala here, apparently referring to the fundraising event known as amFAR.
The hosts from an overseasbased organisation seated Donnie and his family among non-celebrities.
Offended by the snub, Donnie and his family walked out. His pal Ray Lui quickly came to calm him down.
Donnie’s wife Cissy has written about the incident on Instagram. She wrote: “One of my favourite films this year is (Green Book). So much to learn from human kindness, respect, arrogance, racial discrimination and dignity. Never would I imagine to experience certain aspects of his film, in this day and age, especially in our own hometown. Tonight we experienced discrimination by an organisation from overseas. Prioritised and supported a charity but in return was shocked by the treatment.”
The following day, Ray Lui, who was also a guest at the charity, recalled the previous night’s events to the press: “I was still outside doing photos when I saw Donnie and his wife walking out of the ballroom looking angry. He told me that he was leaving, and when I asked him what was wrong, he said that he was being discriminated against by foreigners. As his friend, of course I left with him. I immediately booked a table for dinner. I told him to be calm. When we go back home, I’ll open a fresh bottle of good wine.”
Ray added that as an overseas organiser doing an event in Hong Kong, they should be respectful to the people of the host city.
According to Ray, staff members during the gala had also responded rudely to Donnie. After leaving the venue, Donnie received a call from the event organisers, apologising to him on behalf of the staff and expressing that they had changed his seating arrangement. Despite the apology, Donnie decided not to return.
“This isn’t his first time,” said Ray. “He’s definitely experienced discrimination when doing Hollywood movies. All Chinese actors who have worked overseas could relate to this. This is why I believe our country needs to stay strong so that we’ll be respected.”