Jackie Chan Did Not Support His Daughter When She ‘Slept Under a Bridge’ – Inside Their Relationship
Jackie Chan, known worldwide as an action star, shares a challenging relationship with his daughter, Etta Ng. Etta, born from Jackie’s liaison with actress Elaine Ng, has had a tough journey. They rarely communicate, and Etta doesn’t regard Jackie as part of her life, creating a significant emotional distance.
In 2017, Etta made headlines by introducing Andi Autumn, a Canadian influencer, as her partner. This announcement marked a significant moment for her, as it followed her public coming out as gay. Despite the judgment from media outlets in Hong Kong, the couple received a heartfelt wave of support online, which deeply moved Etta. She expressed that she wished to use her experience to uplift individuals who felt unseen.
Etta Ng photographed on July 25, 2023 | Source: YouTube/Facts Verse
Autumn, older by 12 years, found Etta to be a freeing presence in her life. Yet, the couple faced severe hardships. In an April 2018 video, Etta revealed they were homeless in New York, forced to find shelter under a bridge due to lack of family support.
Andi Autumn and Etta Ng pictured on April 30, 2018 | Source: YouTube/iNTELLECTUS
Etta shared, “We’ve been homeless for a month due to homophobic parents. We pretty much slept under a bridge.” The couple sought assistance from various social services, but their pleas went unanswered, further adding to their desperation. “We just want to let people know what’s going on, because at this point it seems ridiculous that no one can help,” Etta stated.
Etta’s mother Elaine responded publicly, stressing the importance of personal responsibility. She remarked, “If they have no money, they should go find work.” Meanwhile, Jackie Chan, who had amassed an impressive fortune, remained silent regarding the matter.
In 2023, Jackie Chan appeared in “Ride On,” where he played a father, drawing a bittersweet echo with real life. A touching scene between his character and on-screen daughter drew emotional responses online, though it stirred controversy due to his estranged relationship with Etta.
Critics and fans alike questioned the portrayal, with many pointing out Jackie’s real-life estrangement from Etta due to her sexuality. Despite this, Jackie’s film portrayal as a father pokes at the emotions of many, sparking heated debates online.
Even as Jackie admitted to past infidelities while married to actress Lin Feng-jiao, with whom he shares a son, Jaycee Chan, Etta has not sought a relationship with him. She feels zero emotional connection to Jackie, viewing him merely as the actor she saw on screen growing up.
Etta Ng posing with her mother, Elaine Ng | Source: YouTube/TVB
Elaine Ng raised Etta in Hong Kong, encountering personal challenges, such as struggles with alcohol. Despite their struggles, Etta and Autumn moved, seeking a fresh start and finding independence together.
Elaine Ng spotted in public | Source: YouTube/EntertainmentEveryDay
Mother-daughter relations have seen ups and downs, yet over time, Elaine and Etta appear to have mended some sores. Nonetheless, Etta has maintained her stance on Jackie, emphasizing acceptance of her identity without relying on his fame.
Elaine Ng pictured smiling | Source: YouTube/EntertainmentEveryDay
Throughout her life, Etta’s remarks about her father may have shifted, but her view on Jackie remains constant — detached yet self-reliant. Her public revelations highlighted her determination to rise above media scrutiny and stand firm in her personal truth.
Pictured: Etta Ng | Source: YouTube/EntertainmentEveryDay
Reflecting on her earlier comments, she acknowledged certain impulsiveness. Yet, Etta reveals a maturity grown from understanding how people judged her based on her renowned father’s shadow.
Etta Ng and Andi Autumn | Source: YouTube/EntertainmentEveryDay
Jackie, when probed about their strained ties, has opted for silence, finding peace in letting nature take its course. In his book “Never Grow Up,” Jackie Chan speaks with regret about certain missteps, but notably omits any direct mention of Etta.
The relationship with his wife, Lin, has weathered storms from past affairs, with Jackie recounting their strength post-scandal. He reflects, “When I started to empathize with her, I came to respect her more and more.” Their marriage, begun under pressure due to her pregnancy, faced scrutiny over rumored infidelities.
Fraught with public interest, the affairs and family dynamics often overshadow Jackie’s cinematic accomplishments. His statements and the complex weave of his family narrative suggest ongoing tensions, dealing with remorse through reflection rather than reconciliation.
Jackie has resolved to leave his fortune to charity, stating of his son Jaycee, “If he is capable, he can make his own money. If not, then he will just be wasting mine.” Jaycee, having faced his trials, remains out of the press’ glare, pursuing quieter creative ambitions.
Jackie Chan and his son Jaycee Chan on April 1, 2009, in Beijing, China | Source: Getty Images
In summary, Jackie’s life, filled with triumphs and turmoils, illustrates the gap between public perception and personal truths. Balancing fame with family proves challenging, revealing a man striving for accountability amidst life’s complex tapestry.
