Singaporean actress Eleanor Lee, who has been active in China, is facing intense backlash over a leaked audio clip allegedly featuring her making derogatory remarks about Chinese people. Despite her denial, Chinese netizens remain furious.
On May 10, Singapore’s Straits Times and other outlets reported that Eleanor Lee had been removed from the cast list of the Chinese historical drama “The Journey Of Legend” due to the controversy. The storm erupted after a 31-second audio clip was shared online by someone claiming to be Lee’s former manager. The clip allegedly included statements such as “I’m doing this not for honor but for money” and “Most Chinese people are stupid.”
Lee took to her personal social media to explain, saying, “I was shocked when I heard the audio. I have never said such things.” She added, “I was born in China and moved to Singapore at 16. Now at 26, I’ve spent nearly half my life here. China gave me opportunities, support, and the chance to shine doing what I love. I feel only affection and gratitude for this country.”
Her Chinese agency also came to her defense, asserting that the audio was fabricated and announced plans for legal action.
Nevertheless, Chinese netizens remain unconvinced. Online comments range from “This is intolerable” to calls for Lee to be removed from all Chinese productions and expelled from the country. Some accused her of being arrogant and ungrateful, intensifying the controversy.
Despite the actress’s clear denial and claims of voice manipulation, the incident has reignited broader concerns in China about respect from foreign-born celebrities and the consequences of public mistrust in the digital age.
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