“Mortal Kombat” Actor Hit With Backlash Over Unrecognizable Visual Transformation

In 2021, a live-action film based on the Mortal Kombat video game series was released. Serving as a reboot of films previously released in the 90s, Mortal Kombat (2021) starred a host of Hollywood names, including Lewis Tan in the lead role as MMA fighter Cole Young.

| Warner Bros

On May 8, the second film in the series is set to be released, with many actors returning to reprise their roles. However, ahead of the film’s release, some have expressed shock over the visuals of one actor and the changes since the previous film.

In 2017, a live-action Power Rangers film introduced many actors to the world, including Ludi Lin, who played the Black Ranger.

Ludi Lin as the Black Ranger | Lionsgate

Born in China, Lin has a unique background, having moved several times during his youth. Though Power Rangers did not perform as well as hoped, many were charmed by Lin’s acting and his handsome visuals, which continued when he was featured in an episode of the highly popular Black Mirror.

| Netflix

Following other roles, mainly in TV series, Lin was cast as Liu Kan, the main character of the video game series, who aids the film’s leads.

| Warner Bros

In December 2022, the actor reported that he had a “gnarly” jaw injury that turned into an infection, shortly after fans noticed a visual change. In comments, many accused him of using the injury to disguise jaw implants, along with other changes.

Recently, the first red carpet premieres for the new film began, and the official Mortal Kombat account posted a video of Lin in collaboration with Warner Bros.

Liu Kang always brings the heat. 🔥 #MortalKombatMovie

♬ original sound – Mortal Kombat

Many commenters expressed confusion over Lin’s visuals, expressing that he looked different than remembered.

Mortal Kombat II will be released on May 8.