Commentary
Keanu Reeves is a rare type of celebrity. He appears to have a heart. Countless stories have been written about the actor’s compassion and lack of ego, hence the reason why he is now considered “America’s sweetheart.” Who isn’t a fan of Reeves? Well, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), for one.
Last year, as I discussed at the time, after supporting the Tibet House benefit, Reeves was added to China’s blacklist. According to the Los Angeles Times, 19 of his movies were immediately pulled from Tencent Video. Three of China’s most popular streaming platforms—iQiyi, Bilibili, and Xiqua Video—also pulled his movies. Most countries, one imagines, would welcome “The Matrix” star with open arms, but in China, he is considered a dangerous influence. Somewhat ludicrously, Lionsgate, the entertainment company behind “John Wick: Chapter 4,” hopes the action movie will penetrate the Chinese market later this year. Considering Reeves plays the role of John Wick, those at Lionsgate should not hold their breath….