Hong Kong’s Eric Tsang, Kenny Bee cut ties with rapper after group photo

Hong Kong actors Eric Tsang Chi-wai and Kenny Bee have distanced themselves from an outspoken Malaysian singer-songwriter after facing a backlash for taking a photo with the rapper known for his critical stance on mainland Chinese authorities.

Veteran actor and comedian Tsang, 72, apologised on Monday on Chinese social media platform Weibo, two days after Malaysian singer Wee Meng Chee, more popularly known as Namewee, posted his photo with the two Hong Kong celebrities. The pair were in Malaysia to perform in a concert on Saturday along with other Hong Kong stars.

“As a Chinese, I am always committed to upholding national dignity and patriotic sentiment,” Tsang’s post said.

“The photo was simply a courteous interaction in a public setting. I was unaware of the individual’s background or past actions. If I had known the situation beforehand, I would never have made any contact.

“This incident was purely an unintentional mistake and in no way represents my support or endorsement of that individual’s views.”

Tsang added that he felt remorseful about the public misunderstanding arising from the incident.