It appears that Simu Liu’s upcoming role as Shang-Chi won’t be his first take on superheroes. The actor will make his debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as soon as Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings will hit theaters, but his (kind of) credits include portraying a different superhero. A recent feature by Empire revealed that Liu used to wear a Spider-Man costume for kids celebrating their birthday parties. And for the actor, it is really important to finally be able to show his face as a proud Asian hero.
“As an Asian man, I could never show my face,” he said. “It was only once I put the mask on that the illusion of the superhero would be sold. The moment that I took it off, nobody would ever think I could be that. That’s something I was keenly aware of.”
RELATED: Marvel Drops New Shang-Chi Poster and Featurette
Liu is slated to portray the titular hero in the first live-action adaptation of the superhero created by Steve Englehart and Jim Starlin. The actor has opened up several times in the past about his upcoming role, stating that he loves the creative freedom with the character’s backstory. In a matter of weeks, the movie directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and penned by Dave Callaham will allow Liu to portray the superhero he wanted and to represent his cultural identity the best way he can.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings hits theaters on September 3.
How do you think Simu Liu would fare as Spider-Man? Let us know in the comment section below!
Recommended Reading: Shang-Chi: Master of Kung-Fu Omnibus Vol. 2
We are also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. This affiliate advertising program also provides a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.