The 2025 Cannes Film Festival is drawing global media attention. As the world’s most prestigious film event, Cannes is a stage for celebrities to affirm their fame and status.
But this year, the festival has become the center of heated controversy as several Asian stars were hurried off the red carpet by Cannes security. Some are calling it racial discrimination, but is that truly the case?
Social Media Erupts over Stars Being Ushered Off at Cannes
The most viral incident involved Tiffany Tang, a top-tier Chinese actress, who was visibly rushed off the red carpet by staff for lingering too long. Dressed elegantly and exuding poise, she was interrupted mid-walk by staff urging her to move up the stairs. Though she maintained a smile, her expression betrayed visible surprise and discomfort.
The clip of the actress being interrupted mid-pose sparked online debate about whether Asian celebrities, particularly Chinese stars, are being unfairly treated at international entertainment events.
While Western stars strolled the red carpet with confidence, basking in photographers’ flashes, many Asian stars were cut short. There was no physical aggression, but the stern expressions and hurried gestures from security staff made several Asian celebrities’ red carpet moments feel like awkward retreats rather than grand entrances.
Wan Qianhui, a musical actress, was reportedly the most “removed” guest this year, being rushed off the red carpet on two separate days. On opening night, her voluminous gown and slow movement prompted multiple warnings. By day four, four Cannes staff members escorted her out simultaneously as she ignored repeated instructions.
Following suit were actresses Wen Zhengrong and Zhao Yingzi, who lingered on the carpet despite lacking press attention, frustrating event staff.
Why are Asian Celebrities “Whistled Off” Cannes’ Red Carpet?
Cannes has long been known for its strict red carpet rules. Each guest, regardless of status, has less than one minute to walk 60 meters to avoid delaying film screenings. With over 2,000 attendees per day, organizers prioritize red carpet time based on celebrity status and official participation.
A-listers or stars with films in competition are given extended posing time and even assistance from staff to adjust gowns for the perfect shot. In contrast, Asian celebrities attending as brand ambassadors without official festival roles are typically allotted just 30–60 seconds.
If these guests slow down or attempt prolonged posing, staff will promptly usher them forward. This has led to routine incidents of Asian stars being subtly rushed off, sparking discomfort and debate year after year.
In 2024, stars like Yoona, Han So-hee, and Guan Xiaotong were also hastily moved along by Cannes staff, sometimes mid-pose on the iconic red stairs.
Even international fashion icon Fan Bingbing, a Cannes veteran, wasn’t spared. In 2015, she was reportedly warned three times after taking nearly four minutes to complete her walk. Fellow star Li Bingbing faced six to seven warnings during one year, receiving public backlash despite her global status.
Racism or Red Carpet Rules?
While accusations of racism surface often in these contexts, industry insiders suggest it’s more about protocol than prejudice. The issue lies in misaligned expectations Asian stars often push the limits of posing time, unaware that Cannes prioritizes flow and order over photo ops.
Though the rules apply to all, the perception of unequal treatment remains, especially when media optics show Western stars enjoying more relaxed red carpet experiences.
Until Cannes updates its protocol or offers clearer communication for non-competing guests, this clash of expectations may continue to cast shadows over what should be a celebration of global cinema.
