The film and TV industry is undergoing a thrilling transformation, embracing diversity and showcasing the incredible talent of Asian actors. Hollywood is buzzing with excitement as Asian-American actors take center stage, captivating audiences with their performances. Not only are actors from different Asian countries gaining well-deserved recognition, but they are also securing leading roles in movies.
Prepare to be amazed by the rising stars lighting up the silver screen. From the unforgettable performances in the blockbuster hit Crazy Rich Asians to the hilarious antics of the sitcom Fresh Off the Boat, Asian roles are gaining immense popularity. The likes of John Cho and Ken Watanabe, seasoned actors with a wealth of experience, are leaving their mark alongside the fresh and vibrant talents of Constance Wu and Awkwafina.
So, which Asian actors are currently stealing the spotlight in Hollywood? Let your imagination run wild and join the conversation!
1. Jackie Chan
Jackie Chan, the famous martial artist and actor, is famous for his amazing stunts and creative fight sequences. He was born in Hong Kong and began his career as a stuntman. However, he quickly became a sensation thanks to his charismatic on-screen persona. You’ve probably seen him in blockbuster hits like the Rush Hour series, Drunken Master, and Police Story.
2. Ken Jeong
Ken Jeong is a seriously talented guy. Not only is he an actor and comedian, but he’s also a licensed physician. Pretty impressive, right? He first caught everyone’s attention on the hit TV show Community, and then he blew us away with his hilarious performances in the Hangover movies. The guy just knows how to make people laugh.
But Ken isn’t just about the laughs. He’s also all about quality. He keeps churning out amazing content that never fails to entertain. Case in point: his Netflix stand-up special called You Complete Me, Ho. Trust me, it’s a riot.
So, whether he’s cracking jokes or saving lives, Ken Jeong is a force to be reckoned with. He’s got the skills, the talent, and the charm to keep us entertained for years to come.
3. Lucy Liu
Lucy Liu, an American actress of Chinese descent, gained fame through her role as Ling Woo on the popular TV series Ally McBeal. She then went on to star in the successful films Charlie’s Angels and Kill Bill Vol. 1, impressing audiences with her martial arts abilities and captivating on-screen presence. Beyond her acting career, she has also excelled as a voice actress, producer, and director.
4. Michelle Yeoh
Michelle Yeoh, a Malaysian-born actress, is widely recognized for her exquisite elegance and impressive physical abilities. Her remarkable talent was showcased in the martial arts masterpiece Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, where she left a lasting impression on audiences. Yeoh’s ability to embody strong and intricate characters has continued to captivate viewers in movies such as Memoirs of a Geisha and Crazy Rich Asians. In addition to her accomplishments on the big screen, she also ventured into television, taking on a prominent role in Star Trek: Discovery.
5. Randall Park
Randall Park is one talented actor who can do it all. He’s got that amazing comedic timing and a gift for making characters come alive on screen. You might recognize him from his breakout role in the hit TV series Fresh Off the Boat, which is based on chef Eddie Huang’s memoir. But that’s not all, folks! Park also showed off his writing and acting chops in the critically acclaimed film Always Be My Maybe.
6. Steven Yeun
Steven Yeun, a Korean-American actor, gained fame for his portrayal of Glenn Rhee in the popular TV series The Walking Dead. He’s one talented and versatile performer who has graced both the big and small screens. You might have seen him in some fantastic movies like Okja and Minari, which received high praise from critics. Yeun’s performances are often deep and thought-provoking, delving into topics such as identity, family, and the immigrant experience.
7. Benedict Wong
Manchester-born Benedict Wong has made quite a name for himself in the entertainment industry. His unique presence has graced numerous film and television projects throughout the years. From his memorable roles in Prometheus, Doctor Strange, and The Martian, it’s clear that he’s a force to be reckoned with as a character actor. And just when you thought he couldn’t impress us more, Wong has now joined the cast of the hit television series Snowpiercer, proving his acting versatility once again.
8. Sandra Oh
Sandra Oh, a Korean-Canadian actress, is truly breaking new ground in the entertainment industry. She first caught the attention of critics with her phenomenal portrayal of Dr. Cristina Yang on the popular TV show Grey’s Anatomy. Since then, Oh has gone on to play the leading role in the highly acclaimed series Killing Eve, aired on BBC America. This remarkable performance has not only garnered her numerous award nominations but also a few well-deserved wins.
Oh’s talent knows no bounds. Her ability to portray a wide range of characters and convey deep emotions has truly set her apart. As an Asian actress in Hollywood, she is making history and paving the way for more diversity in the industry.
9. Awkwafina
Awkwafina, also known as Nora Lum, is a multi-talented star who has made quite a name for herself in the entertainment industry. With her infectious charisma and sharp sense of humor, she has captivated audiences as an actor, comedian, and rapper.
Initially gaining attention through her viral rap videos, Awkwafina quickly made a smooth transition into acting. She stole the show with her standout performances in movies like Ocean’s 8 and Crazy Rich Asians, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
However, it was her lead role in the film The Farewell that truly made history. Awkwafina became the first Asian-American to win a Golden Globe for Best Actress, a remarkable achievement that solidified her talent and broke barriers in the industry.
Overall, Awkwafina’s journey from rap sensation to acclaimed actor has been nothing short of impressive. Her undeniable talent and ability to connect with audiences have made her a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment world.
10. Henry Golding
British-Malaysian actor Henry Golding quickly became a household name thanks to his captivating performance as the leading man in the hit movie Crazy Rich Asians. Since then, Golding has been making waves in the film industry, starring in notable films like A Simple Favor and Last Christmas. With his ability to effortlessly adapt to different roles, Golding has proven himself to be a versatile performer. It’s no wonder that his charm and undeniable presence on screen have made him a highly sought-after actor in Hollywood.
11. Ken Watanabe
Japanese actor Ken Watanabe is widely recognized for his commanding presence and impressive range in the entertainment industry. He has a knack for playing complex and intelligent characters, which has made him stand out among his peers. Movies like Inception, The Last Samurai, and Godzilla have presented his remarkable talent to audiences around the globe.
Not only is Watanabe a star on the silver screen, but he is also an accomplished stage performer. His portrayal of the King of Siam in The King and I received critical acclaim, showcasing his versatility and skill beyond the realm of film.
