Theres no denying that Hollywood has a representation problem when it comes to Asian actors. According to a 2016 diversity study , Asian actors nabbed only 3.9 percent of speaking roles in film a stark contrast from the 73.7 percent white actors received.
It always has, too. From the silent era onward, the film industry has a long history of whitewashing, or, casting white actors in stories about Asians or Asian Americans.
Case in point? Katharine Hepburns yellowface and exaggerated taped eyelids in 1944s Dragon Seed, and Mickey Rooneys ridiculous buck-toothed neighbor in 1961s Breakfast at Tiffanys.
Still, actual Asians were working in Hollywood at the time, paving the way for the likes of present-day actors like Constance Wu and John Cho .
Below, we remember 11 badass old-school Asian actors that you should know about if you dont already.
CORRECTION: This article misstated that Umekis character was married to Marlon Brandos character in Sayonara. She married the character played by Red Buttons.