The upcoming film ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ is facing backlash in China over its depiction of a Chinese character.
According to local outlets, including China.com, criticism intensified after a promotional clip featuring the character was released on Chinese social media platforms. Some viewers questioned whether the portrayal was insensitive, particularly focusing on the character’s name.
The character, Qin Zhou, played by Chinese actor Sun Yitian, appears as an assistant to protagonist Andrea Sachs (played by Anne Hathaway). Online reactions argued that the pronunciation of the name could be associated with a historically offensive stereotype, raising concerns about cultural sensitivity.
Criticism has also extended to the character’s styling and behavior. Some viewers pointed out that the portrayal appeared inconsistent with the film’s fashion-focused setting, while others expressed concern that certain elements could reinforce stereotypes.
As discussion around the issue has grown, calls for a boycott have appeared on Chinese platforms, with some suggesting the controversy could affect the film’s reception and box office performance in the region.
‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ is a sequel to the 2006 original, starring Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, and Stanley Tucci. It is scheduled to open in Korea on the 29th and in China early next month.