Renowned international actor and martial artist, Jackie Chan, faced public scrutiny after reports emerged suggesting that shampoos he had endorsed might contain harmful substances linked to cancer. However, Chan, widely admired for his on-screen persona and philanthropic endeavors, expressed his concern and willingness to address the issue head-on.
Over a decade ago, Chan broke his silence on the controversy surrounding his endorsement of BaWang shampoo products allegedly containing cancer-causing ingredients. In an exclusive interview, the star discussed his stance on the matter and offered insights into his decision-making process regarding brand endorsements.
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Jackie Chan claimed that someone was trying to harm him
During the interview, Jackie Chan acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and assured his fans and the public that his endorsements are never taken lightly. He emphasized his commitment to responsible brand associations and revealed that he had already initiated an investigation into the claims, enlisting a team of experts to assess the validity of the information.
Chan further revealed that he was shocked and deeply saddened by the reports, as he has always prioritized the well-being of his fans and the general public. He explained that his decision to endorse a product is based on careful research, due diligence, and an understanding of the potential impact it could have on people’s lives.
However, the Rush Hour actor, who now has an empire worth $400 million, also said that he believes someone was trying to tarnish his image along with BaWang’s. He said,
“Incidents like this, where shampoos are reported to have problems, are not new. Someone is trying to harm me and BaWang. I have always been very careful with what products I endorse “
The actor also discussed the evolving nature of the entertainment industry and celebrity endorsements. He highlighted the importance of celebrities being well-informed and cautious about the products they choose to promote, given their influence on consumer choices.
Did Jackie Chan’s explanation save BaWang?
Founded in China, Bawang Shampoo initially gained popularity for its herbal-based formulations, which were marketed as a solution for various hair concerns. The brand’s reliance on traditional Chinese medicine ingredients, claims of natural remedies, and endorsements by stars like Jackie Chan resonated with consumers positioning itself as a promising player in the competitive beauty industry.
However, the brand’s reputation began to unravel when reports and allegations emerged, casting doubts on the integrity of its products. One of the major setbacks was when the investigations found the presence of potentially harmful substances like Methylisothiazolinone in the products. Moreover, the situation worsened as government agencies in various countries launched inquiries into the safety and quality of Bawang Shampoo products, further eroding consumer confidence.
Initially, in response to the crisis, Bawang Shampoo issued statements defending the safety of their products and refuting the allegations. However, as evidence mounted and public pressure intensified, the brand eventually issued recalls of certain products found to contain the problematic chemical. These recalls, while a step towards addressing the issue, only fueled skepticism and intensified the damage to the brand’s credibility.
And this led to the downfall of Bawang Shampoo, despite the company and even Jackie Chan’s assurance. Hence, it’s safe to say that even Chan’s explanation could not help restore the faith in the company.
Source: DNA