Introduction
Since the release of the Resident Evil 4 remake, Lily Gao, the voice actress for Ada Wong, has become a victim of online harassment from some fans. This is not the first time the entertainment industry has witnessed such actions toward actors or actresses. In this article, we will look closer at Lily Gao’s background, why creepy fans are harassing her, the implications for the gaming industry, and the issue of hate towards voice actors/actresses.
Who is Lily Gao?
Lily Gao is a talented Chinese-Canadian voice actress who has voiced several video game characters and appeared in numerous movies and TV shows. Her notable works include Ada Wong in the Resident Evil 4 remake, the Resident Evil: Welcome to Racoon City film adaptation, and The Expanse TV show. Her performances have always been well-received by both fans and critics. However, her portrayal of Ada Wong in the latest installment of Resident Evil has caused controversy among some fans.
Why is Lily Gao Being Harassed?
Several players have criticized Lily Gao’s delivery of her lines in Resident Evil 4, with some claiming that her performance is unenthusiastic and uninteresting. Others have even gone as far as saying that she has ruined the game with her acting. One fan said they “wasted my money by buying the deluxe edition to get this VA [voice actress] to voice Ada.”
It’s important to note that there may be a racial and sexist element to some of the harassment, as other cast members have not received this type of abuse. It’s also essential to acknowledge that while constructive criticism is valid, online harassment is never acceptable.
Is Hate Towards Voice Actors/Actresses Common in the Video Game Industry?
Unfortunately, online harassment and hateful comments toward video game voice actors and actresses are uncommon. Voice actress Laura Bailey, who played Abby in The Last of Us 2, received death threats for her performance, as many found the story choices made in the game controversial. The developers of The Last of Us 2 also received death threats. In July of last year, studio Bungie explained that they reduced communication with players due to the dangers their staff got. The sad reality is that Lily Gao’s experience is shared by many, not just in the video game industry but in the entertainment landscape as a whole.
Has Lily Gao Deactivated Her Instagram?
Due to the thousands of hateful comments and messages that she received from fans, Lily Gao has deactivated most of her Instagram posts, leaving only one. In the remaining position, she addressed the topic of privilege, and all comments have been deleted. Her experience highlights the devastating impact that online harassment can have on individuals. It’s unclear when she will post again or whether she will abandon the platform entirely.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the harassment of Lily Gao is unacceptable, and it’s essential to remember that actors and actresses in the entertainment industry are human beings who deserve respect. While providing constructive feedback is okay, it’s never acceptable to cross the line and engage in online harassment. The entertainment industry has been grappling with this issue for years, and it’s time for fans to recognize the impact of their words and actions on those who bring their favorite characters to life.
