Liu, 34, is known for playing the hero Shang-Chi in the Marvel Cinematic Universe – a franchise that is part of Disney’s production catalog. He debuted in this role with the feature film “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” (2021).

in 2024, he returns to the forefront with his participation in the biggest box office success of the year: “Barbie”. In the film starring Margot Robbie, Liu brought to life one of the most evil versions of the Ken doll.

“I am absolutely devastated that I will not be able to attend this year’s Candlelight Procession at Disney World,” he wrote on Instagram last Thursday (30). “To those who have been looking forward to seeing me, please know that I was also looking forward to your holiday festivities.”

The candlelight procession is an end-of-year tradition started by Walt Disney himself. For two nights at Disneyland in Florida, several actors join an orchestra and a large choir to tell the Christmas story. The studio’s film stars act as narrators on this occasion.

“My health and that of my family are of paramount importance to me. Ultimately, it’s the spirit of the season! So, after some health concerns, I made the difficult decision to stay home” , continued the actor. Full of hope, he indicated that his absence in 2024 could be compensated by an invitation to the 2024 edition of the event: “Fingers crossed!”

Several fans were disappointed and concerned about Liu’s cancellation because he didn’t explain what the “health scares” he went through were.

“I hope everything goes well and you can come back next year. I know a lot of people who were looking forward to seeing you,” wrote one Twitter user/X. “I am heartbroken to learn that Simu Liu has canceled his participation in the candlelight procession,” lamented another.

Some Internet users have tried to theorize about the reasons which caused the change of project. “He was on crutches a few days ago,” wrote one of them, referring to the photos published by the actor on his networks.

Since October, when he revealed he had injured his Achilles tendon, Simu has only been seen in public using protection on his right leg. However, he did not confirm if this was the reason for the cancellation.

Check out the trailers for Simu Liu’s most notable films below.

“Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”