Simu Liu’s Parents Disappointed He Is Not Dr. Shang-Chi

“Even the Hulk has a PhD”

April 20, 2021

By: John Doe

Asian Americans across the country celebrated the release of a teaser trailer for Marvel Studio’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Marvel’s first film to feature a leading Asian American superhero. Whilst many were delighted with the film’s portrayal of Asian American life, star Simu Liu’s parents were reportedly still disappointed in the role, and by extension him. 

Liu’s father, who declined to be named, noted that while they were proud of his achievements, they did feel that he could do better. 

“Simu is a smart boy, and a good actor. I just wished that this role was more intelligent. He has so much more to achieve,” he elaborated.

“Nowadays, so many of these superheroes have advanced or post-graduate degrees, which is really what you need to be able to secure a good future for your family. Dr. Strange was the top surgeon in his field. Bruce Banner had six PhDs. The Eagle guy [editor’s note: Falcon] was clearly a mechanical engineer. Even Benedict Wong’s character was also a scholar. This is just another let-down.”

Liu’s father cleared his throat loudly and continued to stand with his arms crossed in dismay.

“You know, the real Chinese superhero is Wong Fei-Hung, and he was a doctor. Not only that, a traditional medicine doctor, and he also fought against the Japanese invaders in Taiwan in 1895. Why can’t this Shang-Chi be more like that? He is working as a valet. Obviously he didn’t study hard enough. He probably lives at home with the parents. When will he get married?”

Liu’s mother was more succinct in her criticism.

“All of my friends’ sons are doctors or lawyers. My son can’t even get an acting role as a doctor. Aiya, so embarrassing. Hopefully, after this time of representing the lives and struggles of immigrant Asian people to the entire world, and giving young Asian children a hero to emulate and look up to, he will settle down and find a good career or maybe go back to school.” 

Photo by Gage Skidmore on Flickr