diff --git a/clutter/clutter-text.c b/clutter/clutter-text.c
index 63b245149..ef24c9c04 100644
--- a/clutter/clutter-text.c
+++ b/clutter/clutter-text.c
@@ -2003,7 +2003,7 @@ clutter_text_paint (ClutterActor *self)
     }
 
   /* don't bother painting an empty text actor */
-  if (n_chars > 0 && (!priv->editable || !priv->cursor_visible))
+  if (n_chars == 0 && (!priv->editable || !priv->cursor_visible))
     return;
 
   clutter_actor_get_allocation_box (self, &alloc);