As China's anti-drug ambassador, Jackie Chan once said that what he detested most is drug use and promised to send anyone who used drugs - his son being no exception - to rehab. Because of his personal charm and influence, which extend far beyond the entertainment industry, Jackie Chan's strong anti-drug stance has been praised by one and all and prompted the public to expect the highest ethical behavior from him and his family members.

Tow years ago, Ko too had declared: "I don't use drugs." He had joined other celebrities to show his support for the anti-drug campaign. Given the "contagious effect" of their words and actions, celebrities using drugs can have a negative influence on the people. But the negative influence of the detention of Jaycee Chan and Ko will be much worse, because it will force people to question whether anyone in the entertainment industry is untouched by drugs.

That Jaycee Chan has been taking drugs for the past eight years - as he has admitted - will not only damage his star power, but also dim his chances of succeeding his father as the head of his huge entertainment empire. Although Jaycee Chan's behavior has nothing to do with his father, his detention for drug use will still embarrass him.

All celebrity drug addicts should be sent to rehabs where they can build the determination to stay away from narcotics so that they don't have to sheepishly "regret and apologize" to the public after being detained for drug use.

The author is a senior writer with China Daily. wuyixue@chinadaily.com.cn