A minor character in the highly anticipated fashion-magazine comedy The Devil Wears Prada 2 has ignited a significant backlash online, even before the film has hit theaters. The controversy surrounds a 38-second clip released on social media by 20th Century Studios on April 16, which was intended to introduce the new character Jin Chao, played by Helen J Shen. In the clip, Chao is shown introducing herself to Anne Hathaway's Andy Sachs, who has returned to work at the fictional Runway magazine.
Accusations of Anti-Asian Racism
The clip has been met with furious reactions on social media, with posts accusing the character of being a "blatant anti-Asian racist" stereotype, amassing millions of views. Critics point to several elements that they say perpetuate harmful tropes. Chao is depicted wearing dowdy clothes and glasses, contrasting sharply with other characters in the clip, leading to claims that the filmmakers are relying on an outdated stereotype of Asian individuals as unfashionable or nerdy.
Stereotypical Academic Achievements
Additionally, her recitation of academic achievements—"I did go to Yale, 3.86 GPA, lead soprano of the Whiffenpoofs, and my ACT score was 36"—has drawn fire for reinforcing the "nerdy bookworm" stereotype often associated with Asian characters. Social media users have also criticized the character's name, suggesting it sounds uncomfortably close to a racist slur.
The Guardian has reached out to the film's representatives for comment but has not yet received a response. The sequel, which has also faced criticism for a brand partnership with Starbucks, is scheduled for release on April 30 in China and May 1 in the US and UK.
