Simu Liu has voiced support for Hudson Williams and criticized BuzzFeed over its coverage of the rising actor following a resurfaced photograph that sparked widespread online debate. Williams, who recently gained prominence through HBO Max's 'Heated Rivalry,' has faced renewed scrutiny after an image circulated online appearing to show him as a teenager with a swastika drawn on his forehead.
Social Media Reactions
The photograph prompted intense discussion across social media platforms, with users divided over its context, significance, and whether it should affect public perceptions of the actor. Responding to the controversy on Threads, Liu suggested the backlash reflected a broader pattern he has observed involving public figures from minority backgrounds.
Liu's Statement on Threads
Liu wrote: 'Soo I have this very specific trauma attached to people on the internet fabricating things about me and twisting things into a massive hate campaign when I first broke out. I began to recognize patterns whenever people of colour specifically had a moment of visibility. It happened like clockwork and I see it happening now. The internet is insane. Bad actors are everywhere. If you're here, be careful. Be smart.'
Criticism of BuzzFeed
In a separate post, Liu sharply criticized BuzzFeed's reporting. He stated: 'for an organization that has become synonymous with clickbait to never grow, never evolve, never have a moment of self awareness, and just carry on publishing vile sensationalist bullshit like this is just sad. stop picking on people of colour for absolutely nothing. no wonder your IPO failed so miserably. you're on par with TMZ at this point.'
Williams' Response
Sources close to Williams told TMZ that he was unaware of what had been drawn on him at the time and that the markings did not reflect his beliefs or values. Williams has not publicly commented on the photograph. The image resurfaced weeks after separate online discussion surrounding allegations linked to an alleged social media burner account. No independent verification of the photograph's origins or circumstances has been made public.
