Actor's Democracy Doubts Spark Backlash in Taiwan

Veteran actor Li Tian-chu, known for his role as the eunuch Su Peisheng in the Chinese drama "Empresses in the Palace," has sparked controversy with his remarks questioning Taiwan's democratic system. A video clip circulating widely on July 13 showed the 69-year-old actor intensely asking, "Democracy? Are we truly democratic? Everyone, touch your conscience, are we truly free?" The clip reportedly showed media personnel remaining silent.

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Democracy? Are we truly democratic? Everyone, touch your conscience, are we truly free?

In response, lawyer Lin Chih-chiun posted a screenshot of Li's interview, directly challenging his statements. "Taiwan has the right to vote, and you call it undemocratic? Taiwan can criticize the president, and you call it not free? The stock market is over 40,000 points, airports and department stores are crowded, and you call it not prosperous?" Lin wrote. He urged Li to voice such opinions in China, adding sarcastically, "How about you go say that in China?"

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Taiwan has the right to vote, and you call it undemocratic? Taiwan can criticize the president, and you call it not free?

Lin further commented, "You acted so well as a eunuch, are you still stuck in the role?" Some netizens echoed this sentiment, with one commenter stating, "Taiwanese collaborator Li Tian-chu: Where is my special privilege? ... It is precisely because he is enjoying democracy and freedom that he can stand on this land and say that this place is not democratic and not free. Thank you, Li Tian-chu, for proving democracy and freedom with your lack of understanding."

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You acted so well as a eunuch, are you still stuck in the role?