A tempest of controversy erupted around a Canadian beverage company when its founders ignited the wrath of a Marvel superhero during an episode of a reality TV show akin to "Shark Tank." On a recent broadcast of CBC's "Dragons' Den," actor Simu Liu graced the stage as a guest investor, ready to evaluate potential investments. Among the hopefuls was a Quebec-based bubble tea brand, Bobba, seeking funding to propel their venture forward.
Bubble tea, a Taiwanese tea-infused concoction adorned with tapioca pearls, has soared in popularity in recent times. However, the synergy between Liu and Bobba's proprietors, Sebastien Fiset and Jess Frenette, was strained from the outset of their pitch. As Frenette introduced their product, she labeled it a "trendy, sugary indulgence," hinting at uncertainty surrounding its ingredients.
Liu promptly intervened, noting, "Hold on, I'm quite familiar with its contents, but please continue." Fiset then touted Bobba as a revolutionary take on the classic bubble tea, claiming they had "reimagined this beloved beverage into a convenient, healthier, ready-to-sip experience." He boasted of "disrupting" the market with their "three simple ingredients": premium tea, fruit juice, and their signature Popping Bobba—edible pearls filled with fruity goodness, as per their website.
Liu, a proud Chinese-Canadian, took umbrage at the term "disrupting" in relation to their product, perceiving it as "cultural appropriation." He voiced his concern, stating, "There's a delicate balance in enhancing something inherently Asian while respecting its origins. I find this problematic." When Liu inquired about Asian representation within their team, Fiset and Frenette mentioned their "esteemed partner" from Taiwan who crafted their recipes. According to their website, the flavors were "artfully crafted" in Canada, while the pearls hailed from their "exclusive producer in Taiwan."
Ultimately, Liu declined the investment, emphasizing, "I aspire to bring bubble tea to the masses, but not at the cost of cultural sensitivity." He elaborated, "My venture is rooted in empowering minority entrepreneurs. I feel this opportunity falls short of that goal, and I cannot endorse a business that seemingly profits from something deeply rooted in my cultural heritage."
The encounter sparked backlash, prompting Liu, the Bobba founders, and investor Manjit Minhas (who initially pledged support) to issue statements condemning the threats and harassment directed towards Fiset and Frenette. Liu, via a TikTok video, expressed his belief that the duo approached "Dragons' Den" in good faith, acknowledging disagreements but condemning any form of harassment. "Dragons' Den" echoed this sentiment in their own statement.
Bobba issued an apology, acknowledging the harm caused by their words and actions, and embracing Liu's valid points on cultural appropriation. They vowed to reassess their branding, packaging, and marketing strategies to ensure a respectful and accurate portrayal of their Taiwanese partnership and bubble tea's cultural heritage.
Despite initial interest, Minhas ultimately withdrew her investment, citing further reflection and the need to listen to public opinion. "Dragons' Den," now in its 19th season, is inspired by a Japanese show that premiered in 2001, showcasing the relentless pursuit of entrepreneurial dreams amidst the fires of controversy.
