Netizens Complained About the Lack of Masks at Star Awards; Artistes Said They Were Wearing Masks Off-Screen

You may have been wondering why artistes were going mask-less on screen at yesterday night’s Star Awards 2021. 

Indeed, it hadn’t gone unnoticed by netizens that artistes were seen not wearing masks when they were on camera. 

Here’s what went down. 

Netizens Complained About Lack of Masks at Star Awards; Artistes Said They Were Wearing Masks Off-Screen

Audience members of Star Awards 2021 took to social media platforms to express their concern over the lack of mask-wearing as shown on television during the event. 

Some expressed anger that the celebrities seemed to be given “special treatment”. One accused them of setting a poor example for members of the public. 

After the ceremony, several celebrities stepped forward to clarify the issue in interviews with the media. 

Local Chinese publications had brought up questions to the stars regarding the discussions that were sprouting online over the alleged lack of mask-wearing. 

Hong Ling and Bonnie Loo, who were in the Top 10 Most Popular Female Artistes category, were on the receiving end of such questions.

They responded by saying that all safe distancing regulations were followed during the event, and that artistes had worn masks or face shields when they were not on camera. 

Dennis Chew, Marcus Chin and Chen Shucheng had received similar queries. 

Chen shared that Mediacorp had actually been rather strict in enforcing safe distancing regulations. He also informed a reporter that actors had been wearing masks in the car on the way to the Walk of Fame, and their masks were only removed when they had reached the place and it was time to appear on screen. 

According to this article by CNA, media personnel at the site had overheard a manager telling artistes not to touch anyone, and that they were not allowed to help an actress even if she fell down. 

But of course, no one fell down.

Additionally, it was reported by CNA that hugs and handshakes could not be exchanged, and artistes could not gather in groups, eat or drink, or take wefies together. 

Lest you’re not aware, during filming, talents can remove their masks for the shoot.

Actor Terence Cao Charged for Breaking COVID-19 Rules at Jeffrey Xu’s Birthday Party

Actor Terence Cao was charged under the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) Act on 2 Mar 2021 for breaching safe distancing rules at fellow Mediacorp actor Jeffrey Xu’s 32nd birthday celebration in 2020. 

Fellow actor Shane Pow and deejay Sonia Chew were also present at the party. 

Pictures of the unmasked partygoers had gone viral online, leading to much backlash and criticism from netizens. 

You can read more about it here. 

Featured Image: YouTube (Mediacorp Entertainment)