Actor Simu Liu criticized Bobba founders Sébastien Fiset and Jess Frenette for culturally appropriating boba tea on a recent episode of “Dragons’ Den.” The pair pitched their bottled popping boba and alcoholic bubble tea brand, claiming to have transformed the traditional Taiwanese drink into a convenient and healthier ready-to-drink experience. However, backlash online pointed out the cultural insensitivity of commercializing a beverage with significant cultural roots.
Fiset and Frenette sought $1 million for 18% of their company, Bobba, on the show, stating that they believe the brand could be worth $1 billion in the next five years. Despite fellow Dragons expressing interest in investing, Liu expressed concerns about disrupting or disturbing bubble tea and cultural appropriation. He ultimately decided not to invest, citing the importance of upholding cultural heritage.
The episode sparked a debate on social media, with many supporting Liu’s stance on cultural appropriation. However, Liu also condemned the harassment and death threats directed at Bobba’s founders online, urging for a more constructive conversation about cultural appropriation. He stressed the need to educate and raise awareness on these issues rather than resorting to aggression.
In the end, Fiset and Frenette accepted an investment offer from another Dragon, Manjit Minhas. Despite the controversy, the founders of Bobba defended their product, claiming that the popping boba made it distinct from traditional bubble tea. The situation highlighted the complexities of cultural appropriation in the business world and the importance of respecting cultural origins when developing new products.
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