This past week, several notable Asian American figures have made waves across various industries. From sports to media and entertainment, these individuals continue to break barriers and shape the narrative of Asian American representation.
Simu Liu calls out cultural appropriation from a bubble tea company
Simu Liu recently criticized a Canadian-based bubble tea called “Bobba” for cultural appropriation. Liu recently appeared on a television show called Dragon’s Den, the Canadian version of Shark Tank. During his appearance “Bobba” pitched their canned bubble tea product as a “convenient and healthier, ready-to-drink experience.”
Liu said he had an issue with the business founders ” taking something that’s very distinctly Asian in its identity and quote-unquote ‘making it better.'”
Natalie Nakase becomes the WNBA’s first Asian American head coach
Natalie Nakase made history as the first Asian American head coach in the WNBA. She was hired by the Golden State Valkyries for their inaugural 2025 season, following her successful coaching career with the Las Vegas Aces, where she contributed to their back-to-back championships. From her start as a walk-on player at UCLA to breaking barriers in both the NBA and WNBA, Nakase exemplifies perseverance and leadership.
Daniel Kim executive producing a film directed by Native Hawaiians
Daniel Dae Kim was recently named as an executive director for the upcoming film Makawalu, which is entirely created and co-written by eight Native Hawaiian filmmakers. The film will showcase eight different perspectives of a typical 4th of July “luau” in Oahu. Known for his roles in Lost and Hawaii Five-0, Kim is using his platform to elevate underrepresented voices and promote cultural awareness.
“Makawalu represents an important step in recognizing Native Hawaiian filmmakers and the power of their stories,” said Kim in an exclusive interview with Deadline.
Suni Lee is a Glamour Woman of the Year
Olympic gold medalist Suni Lee was named one of Glamour Magazine’s Women of the Year for 2024. The magazine celebrated Lee’s incredible Olympic comeback. Lee, who won a gold medal and two bronze medals at the 2024 Olympics, spent the months leading up to the games battling with kidney disease while she trained. Known for her extraordinary achievements in gymnastics, Lee has also emerged as a role model representing Asian American excellence in sports. This recognition celebrates her impact both in the gym and beyond, as she continues to inspire future generations of athletes.
Adele Lim to direct “The Princess Diaries 3”
Screenwriter and director Adele Lim, renowned for her work on Crazy Rich Asians and Raya and the Last Dragon, is set to direct the latest installment of the Princess Diaries franchise.
“As a diehard fan of the original ‘Princess Diaries,’ I’m beyond excited to be a part of bringing the third iteration of this beloved franchise to life,” Lim said in a statement per Variety.
While this project marks her continued success in mainstream Hollywood, Lim remains a key figure in championing diverse narratives, particularly through her previous works that spotlight Asian American stories.
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