Key facts
- Chinese TV personality Xie Na's nationwide concert tour has been cancelled.
- The cancellation followed intense online criticism of her singing talent.
- State media questioned celebrities who gain recognition without real ability.
- Critics accused Xie Na of 'cashing in on online popularity' and chasing profits.
- The Beijing concert was cancelled, and ticket holders will receive refunds.
Xie Na, a well-known Chinese television personality, has had her upcoming nationwide concert tour cancelled following a significant backlash online regarding her singing abilities. The initial leg of the tour, scheduled for Beijing, was abruptly called off after public opinion turned against her, with critics questioning her talent and accusing her of exploiting her popularity for financial gain.
State media outlets also contributed to the controversy, publishing articles that admonished celebrities who achieve fame without possessing genuine skills, suggesting that superficial popularity can lead to downfall and questioning the motives behind Xie Na's tour, implying it was more about profit than fulfilling a dream.
While Xie Na's concerts in Chengdu in May were reportedly well-received by her fans, the subsequent announcement of a nationwide tour sparked widespread discontent. Online discussions questioned her qualifications to hold concerts and suggested she was leveraging her celebrity friends' star power. Some even claimed to have lodged official complaints.
Experts suggest the backlash reflects growing public resentment towards celebrities perceived as 'cashing in on their online popularity,' especially amid broader economic frustrations among Chinese youth, including high unemployment and a flagging economy. Celebrities, in contrast, appear to earn substantial incomes with relative ease, making them targets for public ire.
This incident is not isolated, as other celebrities have faced criticism for perceived privilege or leveraging connections. Analysts note that criticism of celebrities can serve as a 'safe' outlet for expressing frustration about competence, privilege, and social fairness without directly confronting more sensitive political topics. However, questions remain about whether such public sentiment should translate into administrative power or lead to 'cancellation power'.