29-6-2023 (TAIPEI) Taiwanese singer and former member of girl group Blackie’s Teenage Club, Tina Chou, has accused television host Charles “Blackie” Chen of sexually harassing her during a work trip to Hong Kong in 2012. Chen and his wife, Taiwanese singer Christine Fan, have filed a civil lawsuit against Chou seeking NT$10 million in compensation and a public apology.
Chou made the allegations on her Facebook page on 27th June, claiming that Chen attempted to sexually assault her in her hotel room and only stopped after she physically resisted him. Chou further alleged that other victims of Chen’s harassment were afraid to speak out due to concerns about being blacklisted in the industry. The allegations have sparked controversy and drawn attention to issues of sexual harassment and abuse in the Taiwanese entertainment industry.
However, there have been some notable voices speaking out in support of Chou and other victims of harassment and abuse in the industry. A well-known Taiwanese entrepreneur and owner of a group buying website has publicly criticised Chen for his behaviour and offered to pay for Chou’s legal fees if she needs a lawyer. This gesture has been seen by some as a sign of solidarity and support for Chou and others who have been victimised in the industry.
Another former member of Blackie’s Teenage Club, Candy Chen, has also weighed in on the controversy. In a cryptic social media post, she wrote “Karma always comes around” in reference to the allegations against Chen. This has led some to speculate that Candy Chen may have knowledge of the situation or may have been a victim of harassment herself.
Chou’s allegations have also shed light on the pervasive culture of silence and fear that exists in the entertainment industry, particularly among young performers who may feel pressured to stay quiet about abuse in order to protect their careers. However, the public attention that this case has garnered may help to break down these barriers and encourage more victims to come forward and seek justice.
