Following the backlash over her portrayal of a Filipina in the TVB series, “Barrack O’Karma 1968”, actress Franchesca Wong recently took to social media to express her apology.
On 20 April, the Canadian-born actress posted a note on her Instagram account, revealing that she had taken a few days to process her emotions, reflect, and listen to the many people who have reached out to her regarding the controversy.
“I sincerely apologise to all who have been negatively affected in any way by the seventh chapter ‘Jei Jei’ of the Barrack O’Karma 1968 drama series, and my role in it,” she expressed. “I genuinely have no intention to disrespect or racially discriminate any ethnic group, please forgive me for getting it wrong.”
“I am truly sorry that my insensitivities have offended and hurt. I am committed more than ever to using my acting for the good of the community,” she added.
Franchesca, who was praised for her performance in the episode, also found herself receiving the backlash from many, after many realised that the woman who played the role of a Filipino domestic helper was actually a local Hong Kong actress.
It was further fuelled by the circulation of a video which showed Franchesca applying brown make-up to her legs and speaking in what sounded like an exaggerated Filipino accent.
TVB has already apologised for the mistake, saying that it was never their intention to discriminate any nationality.
(Photo Source: Franchesca Wong Instagram)