Long-running Taiwanese variety show “Super Sunday” (綜藝大集合) is facing a wave of criticism after a recent episode showed a controversial moment between veteran host Hu Gua and co-host Lan Lan (籃籃), a popular cheerleader-turned-TV personality.

The backlash erupted after a segment featuring the show’s signature game “投懷送抱” (“Into the Arms Balloon Pop”) aired. During the game, Hu Gua repeatedly sat on Lan Lan’s lap with force to pop balloons, as per the game’s format. However, in one instance, Hu Gua appeared to unintentionally touch Lan Lan’s chest, causing her to fall to the ground.

Netizens were quick to point out the awkward moment, with screenshots circulating online. Fans of Lan Lan expressed frustration and discomfort, especially given her public image as a “baseball cheerleading goddess.” Many felt the segment crossed a line of professionalism and appropriateness.

“This isn’t funny anymore—respect your female co-hosts,” one user commented on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), where the incident quickly gained traction.

In response, the show’s production team released a public apology:

“Super Sunday has always aimed to provide joyful and wholesome content. However, we acknowledge that in certain game segments, unintentional physical contact may occur. We sincerely apologize for the inappropriate contact during the recent episode. Moving forward, we will review our game designs and implementation more carefully to prevent such situations.”

The game segment itself is not new, having been part of the show for years, often using unstable chairs for comedic effect. But as the audience matures and sensitivity to personal boundaries increases, what once was seen as playful humor is now facing scrutiny.

Notably, Hu Gua is currently in negotiations for a new contract with Formosa TV, while Lan Lan has remained silent on the issue, reportedly choosing to handle it privately to avoid escalating the situation. Despite being considered one of Hu Gua’s favorite junior colleagues, her silence suggests a cautious stance amid growing public criticism.

The incident gained even further attention when fellow host Xiao Zhen made an unexpected remark during a separate media appearance, suggesting that Lan Lan has a boyfriend. “Lan Lan is like another goddaughter to Jacky Wu. He even gets along well with her boyfriend,” Xiao Zhen casually mentioned during a press event.

This led fans to speculate whether Xiao Zhen was confirming long-rumored ties between Lan Lan and professional baseball player Kuo Yen-Wen. However, Lan Lan quickly addressed the situation through her agency.

“That was just an unintentional touch during filming,” Lan Lan clarified via a statement. “Everyone was deeply immersed in the game, and I didn’t even notice it at the time.”

As for the rumors regarding her relationship status, Lan Lan clarified: “Perhaps Xiao Zhen mistook a dinner companion from the past for someone I was dating. There was interest at the time, but we never dated. I am currently single.”

Sources: ETtoday星光雲