Simu Liu is making it clear where he stands when it comes to online pile-ons.
The actor, who has become one of Hollywood’s most outspoken advocates for Asian representation and accountability in media, recently stepped in to defend fellow Asian-Canadian actor Hudson Williams after a resurfaced photo sparked controversy online.
Williams, the 25-year-old star of Heated Rivalry, found himself at the center of social media discussion after an old image began circulating online, prompting criticism and debate. As headlines spread and commentary intensified, Liu took issue not only with the reaction itself but also with how certain outlets chose to frame the story.
The Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings star voiced his frustration on Threads, where he criticized what he viewed as sensationalized coverage surrounding Williams.
“for an organization that has become synonymous with clickbait to never grow, never evolve, never have a moment of self awareness, and just carry on publishing vile sensationalist bullsh-t like this is just sad,” Liu wrote. “stop picking on people of colour for absolutely nothing.”
The post quickly gained attention, with many fans praising Liu for speaking out and calling attention to what he believes is a recurring pattern in online discourse.
While Liu did not elaborate extensively on the specifics of the resurfaced photo itself, he made it clear that his reaction stemmed from something deeper: personal experience.
Shortly after his initial post, the actor expanded on his thoughts while responding to followers, explaining why situations like this resonate so strongly with him.
“Soo I have this very specific trauma attached to people on the internet fabricating things about me and twisting things into a massive hate campaign when I first broke out. I began to recognize patterns whenever people of colour specifically had a moment of visibility. It happened like clockwork and I see it happening now. The internet is insane. Bad actors are everywhere. If you’re here, be careful. Be smart.”
For many fans who have followed Liu’s career, the comments echoed challenges he has previously discussed regarding life in the spotlight.
Since emerging as a global star through Marvel’s Shang-Chi, Liu has frequently found himself navigating the unpredictable nature of internet discourse. Like many public figures, he has faced periods of intense scrutiny, online criticism, and viral misinformation.
His latest comments suggest those experiences have shaped how he views similar situations involving other performers.
Rather than staying silent, Liu appears determined to use his platform to support artists who may be experiencing the same kinds of attacks he once endured.
That commitment became even more evident when one fan thanked him for publicly backing Williams.
Another commenter expressed sympathy for Liu’s own experiences with online harassment.
The actor’s response was blunt and direct.
“nah don’t worry I’m good now! But I absolutely f-cking refuse to sit back and let it happen to other people.”
Liu has developed a reputation for speaking candidly about issues that matter to him, whether those conversations involve representation, racism, industry practices, or media accountability.
In recent years, he has repeatedly used social media to challenge narratives he believes are unfair or misleading. Back in late 2025, he publicly pushed back against criticism aimed at superhero films and later criticized what he described as Hollywood’s retreat from progress on Asian representation.
Those moments reinforced an image of Liu as someone willing to engage in difficult conversations, even when doing so invites criticism of his own.
