Angela Phương Trinh Faces Backlash and Possible Penalties Over Controversial Statements

Vietnamese actress Angela Phương Trinh is under intense scrutiny for her recent statements on social media, particularly concerning Thích Minh Tuệ's 'khổ hạnh đầu đà' practice. The actress has been accused of spreading false information and making inflammatory remarks.

Why this matters: The controversy surrounding Angela Phương Trinh's statements highlights the importance of responsible social media use, especially among public figures. If left unchecked, the spread of false information can have serious consequences on public opinion and social cohesion.

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, along with the Department of Information and Communications, is set to investigate her statements and provide a response next week. Angela Phương Trinh's Facebook account has been locked, preventing users from commenting on her posts.

This is not the first time Angela Phương Trinh has faced backlash for her online statements. In the past, she has shared misinformation about cancer treatment and made offensive comparisons about people with disabilities. In 2021, she was fined 7.5 million VND for spreading false information about COVID-19 treatment using earthworms.

Angela Phương Trinh has been a Buddhist and a vegan for several years, focusing more on livestreaming and selling products online rather than her entertainment career. However, her recent posts have been described as provocative, using offensive language and accusing certain individuals and organizations of undermining Buddhism.

Her younger sister, Lê Ngọc Phương Trang, has publicly expressed concern over Angela's behavior. In a heartfelt letter posted on June 2, Phương Trang revealed that she is now the main breadwinner of the family and is worried about the impact of Angela's actions on their family and business. She wrote, 'Honestly, I ask everyone to calm down and think because currently, I am the main source of income for the family, taking care of the family, the vegetarian restaurant, and its employees.'

Phương Trang also shared her distress over Angela's changed behavior, stating, 'My sister is no longer the person I used to know, because what she is showing now is not like what she taught me before.'

Angela Phương Trinh's posts have attracted thousands of interactions, with many users expressing outrage and anger. She has referred to opposing views as 'dirty media' and labeled those with differing opinions as 'enemies.' Her actions have sparked widespread criticism and concern among the public and authorities.

Legal experts have weighed in on the potential consequences of her actions. Lawyer Trần Bá Học from the Ho Chi Minh City Bar Association noted that her posts contain unverified information, causing public confusion and controversy. Trinh may face a fine of 10-20 million VND and be forced to remove the false information.

Angela Phương Trinh's career has been marked by both success and controversy. She rose to fame with her roles in films such as 'Bà mẹ nhí' and 'Mùi ngò gai.' However, her personal life has been marred by scandals, including a controversial photoshoot at the age of 16 and a relationship with an older man.

In recent years, Angela has stepped back from the entertainment industry to focus on her spiritual life, practicing Buddhism and adopting a more modest lifestyle. She has expressed regret over her past actions, stating, 'I realized I wasted too much time on meaningless things.'

The Ho Chi Minh City Department of Information and Communications and the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism will discuss the case from both cultural and professional perspectives. The public awaits their decision on the potential penalties Angela Phương Trinh may face for her controversial statements.

Key Takeaways

• Vietnamese actress Angela Phương Trinh faces scrutiny for spreading false info on social media.
• She's accused of making inflammatory remarks about Thích Minh Tuệ's 'khổ hạnh đầu đà' practice.
• Authorities will investigate and may fine her 10-20 million VND for spreading false info.
• This is not her first controversy, having faced backlash for misinformation on cancer treatment and COVID-19.
• Her sister has publicly expressed concern over Angela's behavior, worried about its impact on their family and business.