Chinese Actor Zhang Linghe Faces Backlash Over Racist Comment, Variety Show Takes Swift Action
Zhang Linghe's comment about Southeast Asians sparked online backlash.
C-drama star Zhang Linghe’s latest controversy about racist remarks has a brand new development. During a game show segment, the Chinese actor referred to South East Asians in a derogatory manner, angering fans. This took place on an episode of Hello Saturday. Read about what he said, how the variety show reacted, and his apology statement below.
Chinese Star Zhang Linghe Racism: Hello Saturday Edits Contented Comment Out
On March 6, 2026, Zhang Linghe appeared on Hello Saturday, a Chinese variety show. When fellow actor Tian Xiwei drew a picture of Zhang, he commented it looked like Yang Di. For context, the Chinese comedian is not considered attractive by audience.
After this, the C-drama actor claimed that it looked like he was “born in Southeast Asia.” The original episode was released with this line intact. According to reports, the segment where he commented this has been removed. Hello Saturday’s response came after the clip had already reached far and wide. It seemed like the show was trying to save its own reputation.
International viewers had dissected the clip over and over. Many believed this to be part of a larger disdain of Southeast Asian countries by East Asian ones.
He can just say that drawing is ugly but no…he need to mention SEA which mean he automatically think SEA people = ugly. Ouhh how disappointed I am with you Zhang Linghe. https://t.co/sBLDrWydv0
— Chick • 해이ness • BUSY (@Haeinpops) March 10, 2026
Zhang Linghe has since apologised for his callousness. He said it was not his intention to appear like he was putting any culture down. Zhang added that he appreciated his Southeast Asian fans for all their support. He did not wish to make them sad over his words.
#ZhangLingHe apologized for his remarks on an episode of a variety show. He had said, “I feel like I was born in Southeast Asia.”
Context: He was jokingly commenting on the art style of the caricature, which he thought gave him a different ethnic appearance. pic.twitter.com/6TVO6ZhAgQ
— fkshi (@FKShi) March 10, 2026
The new update of Hello Saturday deleting the short clip out is one solution, but it is too little too late for many. Zhang Linghe’s words were hurtful to many Southeast Asian fans. Some feel that he apologised because he was caught.
Also Read: From Zhao Lusi To Fan Bingbing, Here’s How Your Favourite C-Drama Stars Celebrated Chinese New Year!
First Published: March 12, 2026 9:16 PM
