Simu Liu Critiques Bobba's Cultural Appropriation

Simu Liu, appearing on Canada's Dragons' Den, criticized Quebec entrepreneurs Sébastien Fiset and Jess Frenette for cultural appropriation of bubble tea, a Taiwanese drink, with their company Bobba, which offers alcoholic versions. Liu challenged their claim of 'making it better' without acknowledging its cultural roots, leading to viral backlash online against the entrepreneurs and some investors. Despite some Dragons showing interest, Liu declined to invest, emphasizing the importance of respecting the drink's Asian heritage. The entrepreneurs later apologized, acknowledging the harm and vowing to reevaluate their branding to honor bubble tea's origins. Liu condemned the harassment the entrepreneurs faced, urging for education on cultural respect rather than threats. The incident sparked a broader discussion on cultural appropriation and its implications in business.