Rainie Yang clarifies ‘criticism’ directed at Joker Xue

Rainie Yang’s comments on dance programme Shake It Up became the subject of much debate after a recent episode saw her criticising a contestant. The singer-actress is a contestant who challenges guests to dance battles, and also has the role of a judge as she is allowed to critique and vote for contestants.

In that episode, Chinese singer Joker Xue went up against Chinese actor Peter Sheng in a contest. After Joker finished his routine, Rainie said, “Mr. Joker Xue was here for his performance. What you saw earlier on was his concert, and that was his midway routine!” After saying her piece, she voted for Peter.

While Joker did not respond to her comments on the programme, he later said in an interview, “I think there was a misunderstanding. This choreography wasn’t a part of my concert routine. This was arranged for Shake It Up. I wouldn’t take something that was made by someone else or adapt it slightly, because I don’t think this is the right thing to do.”

Netizens quickly started a discussion on this, with some harbouring negative feelings towards Rainie for her comments. Seemingly aware of what was brewing online, Rainie quickly posted a clarification on Weibo.

“I just watched this week’s episode. What I meant was that Joker’s dance, performance and aura made me feel like he was having his personal concert. I didn’t mean to say that he was performing something that he’s done at his concert before,” she wrote. “I know that every participant prepares a brand-new choreography just for the show, but I couldn’t express that in the way that I wanted to, which could have easily caused a misunderstanding. After watching (the programme), I felt uncomfortable too, which is why I wanted to make things clear here. Thank you.”

After reading her clarification, many netizens lauded her for her quick response to the controversy, with some suspecting that it was malicious editing on the broadcaster’s part in a bid to make the episode controversial and dramatic.

Photos: PBE Media

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