TVB children's show host apologises for cynophobia

19 Jul – TVB actress Karlie Chung recently apologised for upsetting viewers by admitting that she is afraid of dogs on the variety show, "Big Boys Club".

As reported on Mingpao, the actress who also hosted TVB children's show, "Kids, Think Big", recently went on the show and revealed that she has always been afraid of dogs and will not be able to concentrate on anything she is doing if she knows there is one around.

Karlie also admitted that she is afraid of all dogs, even small ones like a Chihuahua, adding that she would rather take a different elevator than be in one with people and their dogs.

The Communications Authority revealed that it had received a total of 50 complaints about the said episode. Many criticised Karlie for her statement, saying that she could influence children to see animals as bad due to her position as a host of a children's show.

Speaking about the criticisms recently, Karlie said that she is sorry to have upset people with her interview, saying that she failed to use the proper words to convey her thoughts.

Karlie stressed that she doesn't discriminate, and that the only reason she is afraid of dogs is because she was once bitten by one when she was just a child and that it had traumatised her.

She also released a statement of apology online following the issue, writing, "After reflecting the issue deeply, I realised that as a public figure, especially a host of a children's programme, the remark I made that day was indeed very immature and lacking in social responsibility. I have learned from it and will be cautious in the future. I would like to extend my most sincere apologies to everyone."

(Photo Source: Karlie Chung Instagram)