Keanu Reeves faces backlash, boycott threats from Chinese nationalists over Tibet independence stance
By Ryan General
Hollywood superstar Keanu Reeves has earned the ire of Chinese nationalists after they found out that he will participate in the upcoming Tibet House US Annual Benefit Concert.
“Little Pinks” – young social media users who are known for their avid support for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) – have criticized Reeves and warned of a potential boycott of his latest film, “The Matrix: Resurrections,” reported Variety.
“How can Keanu Reeves not understand this and take part in a pro-Tibet independence concert?” a pro-China Weibo account reportedly asked. “Aren’t these celebrities afraid of losing the China market?”
“These high school graduates in Hollywood can’t even identify where Tibet is on the map, but they ‘care’ if people there are leading a good life,” a Weibo user wrote.
“The film can be taken down now,” another user declared. “Get out of the Chinese market, thank you.”
The negative responses came after it was revealed that Reeves will be part of the virtual concert by Tibet House U.S. on March 3. Other artists set to join include Patti Smith, Laurie Anderson, Trey Anastasio and Jason Isbell, with renowned composer Philip Glass as the virtual event’s artistic director.
Tibet House US is a nonprofit organization founded in New York in 1987 by supporters of the Dalai Lama, the foremost spiritual leader of the Tibetan people.
Chinese officials have long claimed that Tibet is an integral part of China and consider Tibet House US to be a pro-Tibetan independence group.
Since its release in China on Jan. 14, “The Matrix: Resurrections” has so far earned an underwhelming 78 million yuan (approximately $12.3 million) at the local box office. It also earned low scores from fans and critics on local movie review websites.
Featured Image via Warner Bros. Pictures
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