Joel Chan has brushed off criticism surrounding his recent performance in Toronto, saying the overseas job was ultimately about earning money for his family.
The Hong Kong actor was recently seen rehearsing at a Toronto restaurant ahead of a gala dinner and meet-and-greet. Photos of the rehearsal appeared to show him performing in an empty venue, prompting online discussion about the event.
Chan explained that the footage was taken during a late-night rehearsal after customers had left, so the venue was not representative of the actual event.
He also revealed that one of his main reasons for accepting the overseas engagement was to help pay for his son’s private tutoring. Chan said his son has faced increasingly demanding schoolwork since starting primary school and that additional academic support would be helpful.
The actor also rejected the idea that performing at a restaurant was beneath an established entertainer. He said artists should treat any venue with an audience as a stage and expressed gratitude for opportunities to perform overseas.
Chan added that the Toronto audience was enthusiastic and that meeting his fans was one of the most rewarding parts of the trip.
The episode offers a glimpse into the less glamorous side of show business, where even established performers continue taking different types of jobs while balancing career commitments and family responsibilities.
