Disney’s live-action remake of “Mulan” has angered longtime fans once again. The studio’s latest crime? The removal of fan-favourite character Li Shang.
This comes after it was announced that Donnie Yen has signed on to play the Mulan’s mentor, Commander Tung. Instead of including the original main antagonist Shan Yu, the live adaptation will introduce a powerful evil witch played by Gong Li. In addition, Jet Li will play the emperor of China.
Twitter User @nerdyasians, who is known for Asian American news, announced that the beloved Li Shang has been cut out of the “Mulan” film. Based on a casting notice, it is believed that Li Shang has been replaced with a new character name Chen Honghui. It is rumoured that Chen Honghui will be Mulan’s salty hater rival but eventually develops feeling for her.
Many fans have speculated over the years that Li Shang is bisexual. As Mulan’s superior, Li Shang initially despised her for her incompetence. However, he grew to respect her after witnessing the brave warrior fight for her country. The pair eventually blossomed into a couple at the end of the animated movie.
This piece of new information is obviously not sitting well with a lot of fans. Take a look at their reactions below:
https://twitter.com/nerdyasians/status/985901721678303233
Screw Disney for taking Li Shang out of Mulan. There is no excuse for that but homophobia. Who is gonna sing this, pray tell? pic.twitter.com/VN4deHLwOI
— The Distracted Tatiana (@myrcellasear) April 16, 2018
First they add Prince Anders in Aladdin, and now they erase Li Shang from Mulan!? Could you imagine a Cinderella movie without Prince Charming or BatB without the Beast!? Why??? Stop messing with Mulan! pic.twitter.com/5z3Yti9V6Q
— ferdosa (@atomicwick) April 16, 2018
Disney has not released an official statement in regards to this matter.
Do you think that replacing Li Shang is a downgrade?
Sources: Oh No They Didn’t, Next Shark.
