DreamWorks’ 'Forgotten Island' trailer drops, sparking excitement among Filipino Americans

Best friends face a dilemma in "Forgotten Island" which draws on Philippine mythology.

The internet just got a little louder, and for Filipino Americans, a whole lot more familiar. 

DreamWorks Animation released the official trailer for Forgotten Island on March 25, 2026, and it’s not just the animation that’s turning heads—it’s the jeepneys, the balisongs, and the unmistakable silhouette of a Manananggal soaring across the screen.

For a community that has long waited for its moment in the mainstream animation spotlight, this isn't just a movie; it’s a cultural milestone. Directed by Joel Crawford and FilAm animator Januel Mercado, the film is a love letter to Philippine folklore wrapped in a story about the one thing that binds the diaspora together: the bittersweet pain of leaving home.

“I was so excited. You have no idea. We were in the Philippines in 2019, and my mom was trying to scare us about all these stories. I literally grew up on them. I get to share a piece of my childhood in this work and with the world,” said Wilson (aka H.E.R.).

Soberano added, “It’s been a long-time dream of mine to be able to be in a project that really represented the Philippines in a very accurate way, but at the same time, is universal enough for people to be able to relate to.” She added, “To have Filipino culture showcased by a major studio is very exciting.”

"It Hits Different"

The excitement isn’t just about seeing familiar sights; it’s about hearing familiar voices. The film features a powerhouse cast led by Grammy-winner H.E.R. (voicing Jo) and Liza Soberano (voicing Raissa), who is making a name for herself in Hollywood and gaining the attention of producers and casting agents.

Wilson, who already has a Best Song Oscar for "Fight For You" in 2021) a Bay Area native, didn't hold back on what the feature film means for her and the Filipino American community.

"I’ve always wanted to be part of a project that showcases Filipinos and Filipino culture on a global scale," she told press at the trailer launch. "Growing up Filipino and Black... and always being loud and proud... but going other places and not necessarily seeing the representation... to see it in a film, it just hits different. It’s honestly so magical.

Liza Soberano, left, and H.E.R. provide the voices of the best friends in 'Forgotten Island.'

The film’s co-director, Januel Mercado, emphasized that while the creatures are fantastical, the heart of the story is grounded in the very real Filipino experience of separation best exemplfied by poor economic conditions forcing millions of Filipinos to seek employment in other countries. 

"We really thought about what the impact and value of those loved ones in your life is and how they contribute to the life you have and the person you become," Mercado explained.

A 'Who’s Who' of Filipino talent

It’s not just the leads. The credits read like a dream roster of Filipino excellence:

Lea Salonga as the Dreaded Manananggal (yes, the Disney Legend and beloved Broadway star) is playing the monster, and we are here for it).

Manny Jacinto (The Good Place), Dolly de Leon, (Triangle of Sadness), comedian Jo Koy (Easter Sunday), and Amielynn Abellera rounding out the supporting cast.

The feature is still in production, and the producers have been rather coy about the music. Speculation is that a yet-to-be announced song will feature either Salonga or H.E.R., or both of the stars.

        FYI: Click here to view trailer of 'Forgotten Island''

Social media has been buzzing since the trailer dropped. One fan on Threads summed up the collective mood: "Filipino culture portrayed in a way that feels real... not just the visuals or the representation, it's the story about identity, roots, & what it means to grow up between cultures. As a third culture kid, this one feels personal."

Here’s what’s echoing across the feeds:

Liza Soberano (the voice of Raissa) set the tone early, sharing her excitement on Instagram: "So beyond grateful and honored to be a part of this beautiful film... A dream come true to bring a story rooted in Filipino culture to the big screen with DreamWorks!"

The A’tin (SB19’s fandom) have turned the comment sections into a digital rally. One high-profile fan account posted: "DreamWorks, the vision is right there. We need SB19 on this soundtrack. The world needs to hear the P-pop sound on the Forgotten Island!"

Filipino-American creators are getting emotional over the visuals. As one TikTok culture commentator put it: "Seeing a literal jeepney in a high-budget DreamWorks movie feels like a fever dream in the best way possible. This isn't just a movie; it's a 'we were here' moment."

Film enthusiasts are also leaning into the technical pedigree. One popular YouTube film essayist noted: "Januel Mercado coming off 'Puss in Boots: The Last Wish' to helm this? Expect the animation to be experimental, vibrant, and absolutely top-tier. Forgotten Island is the one to watch in 2026."

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news, views and chismis from an AANHPI perspective, follow me on Threads, on X, BlueSky or at the blog Views From the Edge. 

Golden Globes: 'Beef' Ali Wong, Steven Yeun win

From left, Beef's Steven Yeun, Lee Sung Jin and Ali Wong after winning their Golden Globes.

Win some. Lose some. The diversity of Asian America was on full display Sunday at the Golden Globes Awards, from the triumphs of Beef to the struggles of comedian Jo Koy, the show's last-minute host.

Beef was awarded Best Television Limited Series, Anthology Series, or Motion Picture Made for Television.

In addition, Beef’s lead factors Ali Wong and Steven Yeun took home awards for best performance by an actress and an actor, respectively.

The Netflix movie’s director and writer Lee Sung Jin, made sure to thank his counterpart in the real-life road rage incident that inspired the show. “I’d be remiss not to thank that driver,” he said. “Sir, I hope you honk and yell and inspire others for years to come.

Beef’s lead factors Ali Wong and Steven Yeun took home awards for best performance by an actress and an actor, respectively.

        FYI: Complete list of winners and nominees.

It was the first time an Asian American production won in these respective categories in Golden Globe history and Wong made history as the first Asian Amereican actress to win in that category.

The awards show also made history with its first Filipino American host Jo Koy. Unfortunately, the standup comedian’s opening monologue wasn’t his best performance. Many of his jokes fell flat in front of the show biz audience.

SCREEN CAPTURE / BBC

Jo Koy's jokes failed to hit with the show business audience. 

At one point during his monologue, Koy was met with boos prompting him to ask for the audience's understanding since he took the job only 10 days ago after several other potential emcees turned down the gig.

The morning after his hosting disaster, Koy was a gust on GMA3. Co-hosts Eva Pilgrim and DeMarco Morgan noted that Koy seemed a bit down deflated during an interview.

“I’d be lying if it doesn’t hurt,” said Koy of the reviews. “I hit a little moment there [during the monologue] where I was just like, ‘Ah.’ Hosting is a tough gig. Yes, I am a stand-up comic, but that hosting position is a different style. It’s not the same style.”

“That’s a tough gig! I’m not gonna lie,” he told the Hollywood Reporter this morning. “I really love the art of stand-up and it was cool that the opportunity came to me. Hosting is just a beast… and the crash course was really hard, too. … I literally got the call and haven’t slept since, just trying to write something, just trying to to write what we had to write. And the guys were great. Everyone was great. It’s just… that was that night. I had an off night!”

He added, “I wanted to give a little bit more of me, and I just fell a little short and that’s all.”

“It’s hard to blame the guy though given that it was not only his first time hosting an awards show but he had very little time to get his act together,” read commentary from Rolling Stone‘s Marlow Stern.

Koy tried to look at the bright side his below par performance. “That’s one thing I want to be proud about,” he said. "It was a long journey, and the opportunity came, and no one knew where the Golden Globes was gonna be, and then last second CBS picked up the show and everyone was kind of turning down the offer because of the time, and I jumped on it. I was like, ‘You know what? Let’s try it. Let’s go for it.’”

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news and views from an AANHPI perspective, follow me at Threads.net/eduardodiok, @DioknoEd on Twitter or at the blog Views From the Edge.

ABC passes on Jo Koy's Filipino American sitcom 'Josep'

INTAGRAM / TESS PARAS

The cast of the 'Josep' pilot starred Filipino American comedian Jo Koy, far right.

The world will have to wait a little bit longer for a TV series about a Filipino American family. Josep, a sitcom starring wildly popular standup comedian Jo Koy is getting picked up by ABC.

ABC ordered the pilot for Josep last year and production began (and ended) in Vancouver with an almost all-Filipino American cast playing the friends and family of a recently divorced nurse played by Koy.

Koy starred alongside Mia Katigbak, Rory O’Malley, Kimee Balmilero, Tess Paras, Jason Rogel, Kaden Alejandro. Steve Joe (Young Sheldon) penned the pilot, which was exec produced by Koy, Kourtney Kang (Doogie Kamealoha) and Randall Park.

Paras expressed her disappointment on Instagram: "The thing that hurts is the all-too-familiar pang of narrative scarcity for the Filipino American experience. For me, rooting for this movement of AAPI-led shows feels good. Rooting for a funny, Filipino-led show felt even better. Having a chance to air would have been best ... It’s the first time I’ve ever felt like the right fish in the right pond."

ABC held out a thin thread of hope, with sources saying the series could be "redeveloped," according to Variety. The network reportedly remains  high on the series concept an Koy. The comedian said in an interview if the the show is redeveloped it would retain elements of the pilot.

In the meantime, Koy's feature movie, Easter Sunday, which also centers on a Filipino American family, is set to premiere on August 5.

Koy is best known for his stand-up comedy specials. His  most recent Netflix special “Jo Koy: In His Elements” was taped in the Philippines was first aired in 2020.

Currently on his "Funny is Funny" tour, sold-out performances  will be taped for his fourth Netflix special.

ABC's earlier forays into Asian American -driven shows include Fresh Off the Boat, which finished a seven-year run and boosted the profiles and careers of Randall Park and Constance Wu, and the short-lived Dr. Ken with comedian Ken Jeong.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news and views from an AANHPI perspective, follow @DioknoeEd on Twitter.

In 2022, Hollywood doors creak open for Asian American content

The commercial and artistic success of 2018's 'Crazy Rich Asians' is credited with opening Hollywood's eyes and doors to the rich potential of Asian and Asian American talent and stories.

2022 could be a landmark year for AAPI representation in the history of filmmaking and TV production.

There are signs that Hollywood* is turning the corner in recognition of the changing demographics of the movie-going audience with a handful of Asian American theme movies in various stages of production.

The surprise hit of the winter season is Fox series The Cleaning Lady. The strong audience ratings and critical acclaim may be opening some eyes and minds of Hollywood's decision makers that the US audience may be more accepting of diverse fare and actors than previously assumed.

Whether this apparent willingness to tell AAPI stories and star AAPI characters is a permanent trend or just a merely a fad is something only time will tell.

The list might appear to be a lot of shows but when you consider Hollywood churns out hundreds of projects, many of them clunkers, the recommendations below represent just a small, small fraction of the productions. Reports about Hollywood diversity by USC and UCLA still say the vast majority of Hollywood's products are still directed at a  white audience starring white leads and AAPI representation is still lacking.

Still, what we have now is a vast improvement from just four years ago when Asian August, which premiered Crazy Rich Asians, the Every Boy I Ever Loved franchise and the John Cho starrer Searching, broke open the proverbial dam for AAPI talent in front and behind the camera. With over two dozen features and series, 2022 has the potential to be a historic year in terms of Asian representation in North American pop culture.

Have AANHPI arrived in Hollywood, the world's entertainment production capitol? Well, not quite, but the studio door is creaking open.

What's noteworthy is that many of the productions are driven by AAPI creators, from Dwayne Johnson, Daniel Dae Kim, Mindy Kaling, Miranda Kwok, Dean Devlin, Dan Lin to Awkwafina. Instead of waiting around for handouts from Hollywood studios, these writers, producers and directors are taking the bull by the horns and launching their own productions.

The problem is, despite the unprecedented output by AAPI artists, we're still at the stage where projects with AAPI themes and actors can't afford any clunkers. One bad showing and Hollywood could quickly back off on their tepid effort to diversify their output.

For those AAPI viewers looking for movies or TV series that you can identify with, here are some of the current and upcoming projects** (in no particular order) that might be of interest:

Pachinko: Based on the best-selling novel of the same name, Pachinko follows four generations of a Korean immigrant family through Korea, Japan, and the U.S. during the Japanese Occupation, World War II, and after. The saga presents a harrowing take on racism, imperialism, and immigration wrapped in a forbidden love story. Told in Korean, Japanese and English, the first three episodes will debut March 25, on Apple TV+ followed by weekly releases until April 29. Production company is Steven Spielberg's Amblin' Studios.

Kung Fu (Season 2): Kung Fu (not the David Carradine-led version) returns for another season. Set in present day San Francisco, it features an attractive cast, including Olivia Liang, Shannon Dang, Eddie Liu and the Tzi Ma as the father of the Shen family. As the title suggests: lots of martial arts featured and smart contemporary banter between the characters. The Shen's and allies continue to seek the magical artifacts that give great power to whoever possesses them. Season 2 premieres March 9, 9 p.m. on the CW network.

The Cleaning Lady: Fox got one of its highest-rated shows in this production with creator Miranda Kwok as executive producer along with Filipino Canadian Shay Mitchell (Pretty Little Liars). Launched in January, the series stars Cambodian French actress Elodie Yung as a doctor who leaves her medical practice in the Philippines to seek treatment for her son who suffers from an auto-immune disease. Along the way, she seeks employment as a cleaning lady but gets involved with the Las Vegas underworld. The Cleaning Lady is precedent-setting by telling stories from the POV of the undocumented immigrants and starring Southeast Asian actors. The series airs Mondays on Fox, 9 p.m., but past episodes can be streamed on Hulu. 

Tokyo Vice: HBO Max announced that the new crime drama miniseries will debut April 7 with 2 episodes on the network. The series, a co-production with Endeavor Content and Japanese broadcaster Wowow, is based on the 2009 memoir of the same name by Jake Adelstein, an American journalist who moved to Japan to cover the Tokyo police force. Ansel Elgort stars as Adelstein, with Ken Watanabe, Rinko Kikuchi, Rachel Keller, Ella Rumpf, Hideaki Ito, Show Kasamatsu and Tomohisa Yamashita rounding out the ensemble.

Turning Red: An animated feature from Pixar Studios directed by Domine Shi (Bao), tells the rare story of growing up from the viewpoint of 13-year old Asian Canadian, brash, self-confident, who dares to pursue her own ambition of establishing girl band but still retaining the love for her elders and heritage. Some of the voice actors include veteran actors Sandra Oh and James Hong and introduces Roslie Chiang as the central character.  Turning Red premieres March 11 after which it is can be streamed  on Disney+.

Easter Sunday: Stand-up comedian Jo Koy plays a man returning home for an Easter celebration with his riotous, bickering, eating, drinking, laughing, loving family in this love letter to his Filipino American community. Starring in Easter Sunday are Jimmy O. Yang, Tia Carrere, Brandon Wardell, Tony nominee Eva Noblezada, Lydia Gaston, Asif Ali, Rodney To, Eugene Cordero, Jay Chandrasekhar, Tiffany Haddish and Lou Diamond Phillips. The release date was originally going to be around the Easter holiday but has been moved to August 5.

The Fabulous Filipino Brothers: This film starring the four Basco brothers and their sister has been kicking around the film festivals for over a year. The comedy gives a rare peek at the sometimes complicated and not-so-subtle (but always loving) relationships in a Filipino American family as they prepare for an upcoming wedding. The Basco siblings, Dante, Derek, Dion, Darion and Arianna, star in the fictional movie about a rollicking, raucous and loving family. It also features Liza Lapira (The Equalizer) and introduces Philippine star Solenn Hausaff to Western audiences. The feature just started streaming on Amazon Prime, Vudu, Youtube, and Apple+.

Ms. Marvel: Ms. Marvel is an upcoming American web television series, based on the Marvel Comics superheroine of the same name, not to be confused with Captain Marvel, a different superheroine altogether. It is the 20th television series in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It stars newcomer, Indian American actress Iman Vellani as Kamala Khan and Ms. Marvel. With a strong Indian American influene, it also stars Aramis Knight, Saagar Shaikh, Rish Shah, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, Matt Lintz, Yasmeen Fletcher, Laith Naki, Azher Usman, Travina Springer and Nimra Bucha. The series is produced by Marvel Studios and will be released on Disney+ this summer.

Josep: A half-hour sitcom starring the busiest Asian American comedian in Hollywood, Jo Koy (See "Easter Sunday" above.) Koy will play a divorced single-father nurse navigating the dating the world with the assistance of his wacky Filipino American family and friends. The series has deep AAPI roots: The sitcom will be penned by Steve Joe (Doogie Kamealoha M.D.,Young Sheldon), while Kourtney Kang (Fresh Off The Boat), Jake Kasdan and Melvin Mar (Jumanji: The Next Level), and actor Randall Park (WandaVision) will executive produce alongside Koy. Set to premiere on ABC sometimes later this year.

Concepción: FilAm actor Reggie Lee (Grimm) is one of the first "name" actors signed onto this underworld crime series that takes place in Los Angeles' Historic Filipinotown over a 28-year span, 1992-2020. It seeks to examine the world of an Asian American "godfather"-like figure, a world of drugs and money, but also heritage and pride, viewed through origins, history, choices and consequences. Filipino American fingerprints all over this series, still in pre-production, with Yellow Rose and Lingua Franca co-producer Jeremiah Abraham and ABS-CBN and from creator Craig Obligación Wilson. No debut date announced yet.

Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens (Season 2): Starring the now acclaimed actress Awkwafina, aka Nora Lum, the sitcom is loosely based on the actress' real live in Queens, NYC before she became famous and an in-demand. Besides Awkwafina (Crazy Rich Asians, The Farewell), the series cast includes the rest of her TV family, SNL's Bowen Yang, Broadway's BD Wong and Lori Tan Chinn, who as the grandmother, is a scene stealer. The series has also been an opportunity for AAPI guest stars including Margaret Cho, Simu Liu, Harry Shum, Jr., and Ross Butler. A third season has not. been announced but, in the meantime, the first two seasons of the highly rated series is available on Comedy Central.

Everything, Everywhere All At Once: Directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, the feature film is a hilarious and big-hearted sci-fi action adventure about an exhausted Chinese American woman played by Michelle Yeoh, who can't seem to finish her taxes while being hurtled through multiple dimensions, some dominated by Asians. Cast includes Harry Shum Jr. (“Shadowhunters”), Stephanie Hsu (“Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings”), Ke Huy Quan (“The Goonies”) and James Hong (“Blade Runner” and a host of other films). The film is set to debut on March 25.

Almost Paradise (Season 2): FilAm producer Dean Devlin announced that his fledgling crime series has been picked up for a second season. Shot entirely in Cebu, Philippines, Almost Paradise follows Alex Walker (Christian Kane), a former U.S. DEA agent who, after his partner’s betrayal and a life-threatening battle with hypertension, is forced into early retirement and relocates to a Cebu, Philippines. Besides its exotic locale, the series also stars Filipino talent Samantha Richelle and Arthur Acuña, as his partners in crime0fighting. After production halts because of COVID-19, the series' return to Amazon (Prime) has not been announced.

Sour. Olivia Rodrigo: driving home 2 u: Can we get enough of Olivia Rodrigo? The Filipino American singer, songwriter is featured in a documentary about the making of her debut album "Sour." Olivia takes audiences on a familiar road trip from Salt Lake City, where she began writing her triple-platinum Geffen Records debut album “SOUR,” to Los Angeles. Along the way, Rodrigo recounts the memories of writing and creating her record-breaking debut album and shares her feelings as a young woman navigating a specific time in her life. Through new live arrangements of her songs, intimate interviews and never-before-seen footage, audiences will follow her along on a cinematic journey exploring the story of “SOUR.” The doc debuts March 25 on Disney+.

Fistful of Vengeance: The movie released this month is the followup to the 2020 TV series Wu Assassins. Iko Uwais returns as Kai Jin, the last Wu Assassin. He is joined by Lewis Tan and Jason Tobin. The locale moves from San Francisco to Bangkok as the trio of crime fighters battle the Chinese Triad for the pursuit of ancient powers. Lots of martial arts, spectacular fight choreography. The movie is currently available on Netflix.

Umma: If you're a Sandra Oh (Killing Eve, The Chair) fan (OK, I confess.) or into the horror genre, this is one film you can't miss. "Umma" is Korean for mother. Amanda (Sandra Oh) and her daughter are living a quiet life on an American farm, but when the remains of her estranged mother arrive from Korea, Amanda becomes haunted by the fear of turning into her own mother. Written and directed by Iris Shim. The movie is distributed by Sony and release is slated for March 18.

Nope: A horror/science fiction flick starring Steven Yuen (Minari, The Walking Dead), along with Daniel Kaluuya, Keke Palmer. Caretakers at a California horse ranch encounter a mysterious force that affects human and animal behaviour. Written and directed by Jordan Peele (Get Out). Nope is set to be released in theaters July 22 from Universal Pictures.

Moonshot: Lana Condor (To All The Boys I Ever Loved) leads the cast of this romantic comedy with a sci-fi twist, is set in a future where Mars is terraformed and colonized by the best humanity has to offer two very different college students wind up joining forces and sneak onboard a space shuttle to the red planet in order to be united with their significant others. Condor's co-star is Riverdale's Cole Sprouse. Release date is March 31 on HBO Max.

Bridgerton will be more colorful in Season 2.

Bridgerton (Season 2): The surprise hit of 2020, Bridgerton is a romantic period piece with a change of focus. Jonathan Bailey, who plays Anthony Bridgerton will take the lead alongside potential love interest Kate Sharma, played by Simone Ashley. The Sharma's is an Indian Brit family that shakes up London high society, thus fulfilling Shonda Rhimes' vow to diversify casting. Bridgerton returns March 25 on Netflix.

Mythic Quest (Season 2): I include this Apple+ series in its second season solely on the sterling performance of lead actress Charlotte Nicdao, a Filipino Austrialian who steals every scene she's in. She's proving to be an outstanding comedic actress in a well-written series that doesn't get enough attention and credit from the AAPI entertainment establishment because the series is not on a broadcast network. Her racial heritage is not a central focus of the series but when she sings a Tagalog lullaby in Episode 8, well I almost fell out of my seat. Seasons 1 & 2 are available for binging on Apple+.

Killing Eve (Season 4): This will be the final season for  the critically acclaimed Killing Eve, which has garnered Emmy nominations for its stars, Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer. Comer won the Best Actress Emmy in 2020. Oh was nominated (and should have won) in 2019. The cat-and-mouse game and complicated relationship between the driven British Inspector Eve Polastri (Oh) and the mentally unbalanced Russian assassin Villanelle  (Comer) has captivated audiences for four years. The series premieres Feb. 27 on BBC America and available for streaming on AMC+.

PEN15: The coming-of-age storyline is about two friends played by Anna Konkle and Emma Erskine, who also the serie's creators and writers. The actresses play two middle-school students who maneuver their way through the pitfalls that befall students at that awkward age. Even though they are much older than the characters they play, they are able to pull it off. A lot of Asian Americans will recognize the touchy issues faced by the lead teen characters. Some of the episodes confront the racism directed at Erskine's Japanese American character. Unfortunately, this is the last season for the series. It is bingeable on Hulu.

Young Rock (Season 2). The NBC sitcom follows the adventures of a young Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, a Samoan Black American and one of the most popular stars in the world. It follows the young Rock as a pre-teen, a teenager and a young adult during his time as a professional football player. One of the most fun aspects of the show is bringing in stories about some of WWF's old guard including Andre the Giant, The Iron Sheik and Randy Savage. As of Feb. 22, NBC announced the third season will premiere in January, 2023. The first two seasons can be streamed on Amazon Prime.

NCIS: Hawaii: The TV series stars a host of AAPI actors including lead, Filipino American Vanessa Manillo Lachkey, Yasmine al-bustami, Alex Tarrant, Jason Antoon and Noah Mills. As the title suggests, the setting is Hawaii with strong references to the local culture and the racial origins of each of the characters. Lachkey plays team leader Jane Tennant, who is also a single mom of two hapa children, who she helps navigate through the current era of anti-Asianism. The first season airs on Mondays, 9 p.m. on CBS; also available on Paramount for you bingers. Although it has performed strongly in its time slot, a second season has not been announced. Binge on Paramount.

Never Have I Ever (Season 3), Netflix renewed the sitcom  created by Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher and why not? It is one of Netflix's most successful series around the world. The series is loosely based on the experiences that Kaling had in her own youth. Will Devi pick hapa jock Paxton Hall-Yoshida played. by Darren Barnet or brainy white guy Ben Gross played by Jaren Lewison? Oh, the tribulations of high school from an AAPI POV. Filming Season 3 just wrapped this month. Netflix hopes to launch the hit show's third season in late Spring or early Fall of 2022.

Doogie Kamealoha, MD: A fresh take on the old Doogie Howser, MD series. Lahela "Doogie" Kamealoha is a teenaged wunderkind juggling her high school life with an early medical career. There are strong bones to this series.The sit-com was created by Kourtney Kang, who executive produced Fresh Off the Boat. It stars Disney veteran Peyton Elizabeth Lee (Andi Mack), who plays the title character, who struggles being a normal teenager and a super-smart physician. Some of the AAPI supporting cast include Comedy Central's Ronnie Chieng, Randall Park, and Jason Scott Lee and a host of cameo appearances of veteran actors, including Amy Hill and Margaret Cho. Doogie is available on Disney+.

Squid Games (Season 2): The second season of Netflix's most watched series, the science fiction/horror story about the deadly game of paying off huge debts hasn't even begun taping yet and was originally scheduled for a 2023 release. However, with its recently won three SAG acting awards, pressure may be on to hurry up production for a late 2022 release.

* I use "Hollywood" as a generic term for entertainment production, which could originate in London, Toronto, Vancouver, New York or Atlanta)

**In compiling this list, I stuck to those projects premiering or underway in 2022, staying away from productions set in 2023 or finished in 2021. I also stayed away from products where AAPI actors are secondary characters. I tried to stay away fro foreign productions, but Bridgerton and Squid Games are just too big to ignore. It is not meant to be a complete list. 

EDITOR'S NOTE: On Feb. 25, added 'Killing Eve,' and "Umma" to the list. On March 7, added "Kung Fu" and "Turning Red." On March 22, "Moonshot" waa added. For additional commentary, news and views from an AAPI perspective, follow @DioknoEd. on Twitter 

ABC commissions a pilot sitcom starring Jo Koy

Comedian Jo Koy

When you're hot, you're hot! Filipino American comedian Jo Koy's career is on fire.

ABC announced Tuesday that it ordered a pilot for a sit-com titled Josep. The projected series follows a recently divorced Filipino American nurse (Koy), as he tries to navigate dating, fatherhood and a "helpful" Filipino mother who can't help herself because he just wants what's best for her son.

Anyone familiar with Koy's standup material is probably familiar with the hilarious routines on those subjects that he often describes in his comedy routine.

Behind the camera, the series is a bevy of AAPI talent. Steve Joe is the writer and executive producer on the pilot. Kourtney Kang, who executive produced ABC's Fresh Off the Boat, will do the same job for Josep, along with The Detective Agency’s Jake Kasdan and Melvin Mar, Joe Meloche, Imminent Collision’s Randall Park, Michael Golamco and Hieu Ho.

Koy is one of the busiest Asian American entertainers in Hollywood. He's currently on his world tour, "Just Kidding." He has his fourth Netflix special slated for March and a memoir "Mixed Plate" due out March 23.

Additionally, a motion picture, Easter Sunday, based on his comedy material is scheduled to be released April 1.

The movie, produced by Steven Spielberg's Amblin' Partners and Dan Lin's Rideback Productions, will star the comedian and is loosely based on his life. According to Ambling's website Koy plays a "man returning home for an Easter celebration with his riotous, bickering, eating, drinking, laughing, loving family, in this love letter to his Filipino American community."

Easter Sunday features a bevy of Asian American talent including Tia Carrere plays Tia Theresa, Brandon Wardell plays Junior, Eva Noblezada plays Ruth, and Asif Ali plays Tony Daytona. Eugene Cordero appears as himself, as does Lou Diamond Phillips. Lydia Gaston, Jimmy O. Yang, Rodney To, Jay Chandrasekhar, and Tiffany Haddish have also been cast.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For additional commentary, news and views from an AAPI perspective, follow me on Twitter @DioknoEd.

Jo Koy draws from his Filipino American life for material for a TV situation comedyJO

Jo Koy will play a nurse in a sitcom centering on a Filipino American family

Among Filipinos and Filipino Americans, family is everything: more than country, more than city, more than community, more than one's self. 

Filipino American comedian Jo Koy is producing and starring in a TV series centering around a Filipino American family. 

Asian American families are still a rare commodity on American television.

The sitcom All American Girl starring Margaret Chol featured a Korean American family and Fresh Off the Boat centered around a Taiwanese American family. It will be the first time a Filipino family will be fully portrayed on U.S. television.

There have been Filipino characters on U.S. TV for the last few years -- Jason Mendoza (Manny Jacinto) in The Good Place and Mateo Liwanag (Nico Santos) in Superstore -- but they were individual characters whose background we barely knew. Their families were practically nonexistent.

A peek at Filipino families was given in Crazy Ex-Girlfriend where we meet the family of Josh Chan (Vincent Rodriguez III); and in The Assassination of Gianni Versace we are introduced  to the drark portrayal of Andrew Cunanan's (Darren Criss) father (Jon Jon Briones).

Currently, the Mindy Kaling production, Never Have I Ever, features an Indian American family of teenager Devi Vishwakuma played by Maitreyi Ramakrishnan.

The ABC half-hour sitcom, Josep, which is currently in development, will follow the life of a hardworking Filipino American nurse played by Koy. Written and executive produced by showrunner Steve Joe, Josep will also see its lead character navigating dating, fatherhood and his outspoken mother moving in with him.

If you've seen Koy's standup routines, you know that a good portion of his material comes from being raised by his Filipino mother and her eccentric family. 

Koy is at the peak of his popularity and his schedule reflects that. He is currently on his Just Kidding tour. Koy can also be heard on his weekly podcast, ​The Koy Pond with Jo Koy ​by Starburns Audio. Listeners can dive in each week as Koy welcomes friends and fellow comedians.

The Filipino American comedian is also producing a movie featuring a FIlipino cast, Easter Sunday. The family comedy is based on his life experiences and features Lou Diamond Phillips, Eva Noblezada, Brandon Wardell, Tia Carrere, Lydia Gaston, Rodney To, Melody Butiu, Joey Guila and Elana Juatco.

In addition, his memoire “Mixed Plate: Chronicles of an All-American Combo,” was released last March. The book shows how Koy’s mixed-race background ultimately shaped his brand of comedy and his determination not to give up on his childhood dream to be a stand-up comedian. 

“I’m not trying to pat myself on the back. It was a long road,” Koy said. “And when I finally got to this point in my career, I just looked at my manager. I was like, ‘Man, I would really like to tell people, you know, this struggle, and how hard it was to really get here.’”

Jo Koy nominated for a People's Choice Award

It has been quite a year for comedian Jo Koy. 

The Filipino American funny man's world tour "Just Kidding" has exceeded expectations. He regularly plays to sold out arenas. 

He is the first Filipino American to get a cover for Variety, the show business trade magazine. 

"I got the cover of Variety magazine, October 2020! 30 years in the game and this still feels so surreal.. Mike Miller Photo killed it with this shot," Koy posted on his social media accounts.

In addition, Jo Koy's Netflix special "In His Elements" has been nominated for the People's Choice Award as the Comedy Show of 2020. The special was filmed in Manila during which he showcased his Filipino heritage and introduced up-and-coming Filipino American comedians.

Vote for Koy here for the People's Choice Award. Fans have until Oct. 23 to vote.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Earlier versions of this post misstated the voting deadline.

This year, Koy also worked out a deal with Amblin.  Easter Sunday, a movie based on his own experiences with the holiday. Koy says he’s excited to bring the story to the big screen and adds the cast is going to be remarkably diverse. “It’s going to be filled with Latinos, white people, Black people, Filipinos. It’s going to look like my family.”

Outstanding Filipino Americans to be feted by Search to Involve Pilipino Americans

Jo Koy named "Entertainer of the Year.'

Comedian Jo Koy is gaining a new title besides "funniest Filipino American." He is being dubbed "Entertainer of the Year," during a star-studded fundraiser for Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA).

 In celebration of Filipino American History Month, SIPA will hold its 48th Annual Benefit, "Vision for Tomorrow," on Saturday, October 10, at 5 p.m. PT (8 p.m. ET.)  With the health limits caused by the coronavirus mandates -- such as the Emmy's held last Sunday -- the event will be celebrated virtually.

The all-star benefit, featuring entertainers such as Apl.de.Ap of Black Eyed Peas, Nick Cannon, Josh Dela Cruz, Ava DuVernay, H.E.R., Lea Salonga, and more, aims to raise money for one of the oldest Filipino American nonprofit organizations in the United States, based in Los Angeles' Historic Filipinotown. The virtual event will be hosted by Erin Lim, host of E! News' The Rundown and BingE! Club, and beauty guru and YouTube personality Patrick Starrr.

"The annual benefit is SIPA's most critical fundraiser of the year and typically an in-person event," said Candida Boyette-Clemons, this year's gala co-chair. "But given current rules against large gatherings, SIPA is instead creating a virtual program of stories worth celebrating this year, including notable honorees and powerhouse entertainment to uplift and inspire the entire community."

It has been a busy year for Koy, whose world tour has played to sold-out arenas and had two Netflix specials, one of which was taped in Manila. Koy will receive the Aliwan Award or "Entertainer of the Year" from filmmaker Dan Lin, founder of Rideback, a SIPA supporter whose Rideback Ranch creative campus is based in the heart of Historic Filipinotown.

L.A. Commissioner Jessica Caloza, appointed by Mayor Eric Garcetti as the first Filipina to serve on the Board of Public Works, overseeing critical services for four million residents in the city of L.A., will be honored as "Civic Servant of the Year." Caloza will receive the Lingkod Bayan Award, to be presented by award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay, founder of ARRAY, also a HiFi neighbor and SIPA supporter.

Receiving the honor of "Pinay of the Year" is Anna Marie Cruz, founder of Entrepinayship, a global organization dedicated to empowering Filipinas, and co-founder of the new media platform Entrepinay.com. Cruz will be given the Dawn Mabalon Empowerment Award by Jesse Perez Gonzales, husband of the late activist and historian, along with transgender activist and supermodel Geena Rocero, co-presenter of the award. More honorees and presenters will be announced at a later date.

"SIPA has planned an incredible evening of entertainment, as well as dinner options where you can support local Filipino businesses," noted gala co-chair Jessica del Mundo. 

"Favorites like HiFi Kitchen, LASA, and The Parks' Finest will offer special 'gala meals to go' in Greater Los Angeles, and a list of more Filipino restaurants for orders across the country is on the SIPA gala website from which registered guests can order Filipino food to go, delivery or catering services for everyone dining safely at home as they tune into SIPA's virtual gala on October 10."

Supporting small business is at the heart of SIPA's community efforts. In order to continue its mission, SIPA needs donations now more than ever. 

Due to the pandemic, SIPA's events and programming have either halted or transitioned online. SIPA is also recovering after the untimely death in June of its beloved executive director John Swing, who died from COVID-19 at the age of 48.

The fundraiser will be hosted by the E Network's Erin Lim and Youtube personality Patrick Starrr.

This year's benefit will raise necessary funds for SIPA's new headquarters and programs at HiFi Collective, located at 3200 W. Temple Street where it is set to open in spring 2022. HiFi Collective will house the future John Eric Swing Small Business Center.

Registration for the virtual gala is free, with viewing available on Facebook, IGTV, YouTube or Twitch. 

Interested parties can support SIPA today by becoming a sponsor, purchasing dinner or raffle gifts online, or making a tax-deductible donation at https://sipacares.org. 

More information about SIPA sponsorship opportunities is available through gala co-chairs Candida Boyette-Clemons at candida@sipacares.org or Jessica del Mundo at jessica@sipacares.org.

Since 1972, the community nonprofit SIPA has sought to improve the quality of life for the multicultural district of Historic Filipinotown and the greater Filipino American community. 

Donations accepted at www.sipacares.org. #sipacares #sipa2020vision

Jo Koy celebrates his Filipino heritage in Netflix special

NETFLIX

Andrew Lopez (left) and Joey Guila join Jo Koy in the Philippines for the Netflix special “Jo Koy: In His Elements.”

Taped in Manila, Jo Koy's newest Netflix comedy special is an ode to the Philippines and Filipinos. It is where he spent part of his childhood, learned to speak ride the jeepneys, a uniquely Filipino mode of public transportation, and to speak Tagalog.

"This was something I've been wanting to do since the beginning of my career. I've always wanted to do a special show in the Philippines where it was variety driven... Everything was Filipino. The venue was Filipino, the audience was Filipino," he told CNN.

"In between each segment, we get to showcase something about the Philippines — whether it be riding a jeepney or eating some food. Just highlighting our culture and our people just enough so people will get to see what the Philippines is all about," he said.

Premiering on the streaming network Thursday, June 12, the Philippines' Independence Day, was no accident.

Koy celebrates his heritage by telling jokes about life as a Filipino American while highlighting the culture of Manila. Koy uses this opportunity to shine a light on other Filipino-American performers by welcoming to the stage famed breakdancer Ronnie, Grammy-winning producer !llmind, singer/songwriter Inigo Pascual, and comedians Andrew Lopez, Joey Guila and Andrew Orolfo.

“One thing that was beautiful about going back to the Philippines is them understanding where their parents came from. When you live in America, we're spoiled. Sometimes it takes just going back and really seeing where your parents came from and what they gave up so you can have a better opportunity,” the comedian said.

Koy took his Filipino American guests went to tenements in Taguig, where residents live in cramped quarters. He said the living conditions opened their eyes to how much they can do for their countrymen.

“There was a point where we would yell ‘Cut!’ and we're all just like, damn we got to do more, we got to raise money, we got to help,” Koy told CNN.

When he returned to the US with his family, it reinforced his appreciation for his roots. "I always found myself, especially back then during that time (growing up in the late 1970s and early ’80s), every time I said that I was Filipino, no one knew what it was, you know? I always felt like I was an ambassador. … I felt like I’ve been doing that my whole life. I feel like I’m still doing that to this day. I’ve got a huge platform now. I got a lot of fans that aren’t Filipino and maybe at the end they all go, “Hey, let’s go visit the Philippines. It looks like a fun place.”

Koy added, “It opens up your eyes and you really appreciate everything. That's what I hope we can show with this special, show everybody that if you can help, help. If there's an opportunity to uplift, then uplift. Use your platform wisely. I've been blessed with an opportunity to talk to millions of people so I wanna be able to use that platform.”

Jo Koy: In his Element airs on Netflix beginning June 12.

TGIF Feature: Jo Koy announces his third Netflix special will be from the Philippines

INSTAGRAM / JO KOY

Comedian Jo Koy with his mother.

It's a homecoming, of sorts, for Jo Koy, who is one of the hottest standup comedians in recent years. The Filipino American's next Netflix special will be in the Philippines celebrating his mother's home country.

Even though he was born Joseph Glenn Herbert in Tacoma, Wash., Koy's ties with the Filipino American community and the Philippines was nurtured by his mother. Much of his standup act is derived from growing up in a Filipino American family, headed by a single mother, Josie.

"My mom was able to expose myself and my siblings to a culture that a typical kid in the US does not get," he said to Smart Parenting via. "I am grateful to be able to call two very different countries home," Koy said.

"My mom is naturally funny. The stories I get to tell are just a bonus," Koy said to Smart Parenting. "It’s from my heart. It’s what I lived growing up so that’s all I can talk about."

He used social media to announce Friday (May 14) that his third Netflix special will be staged in the Philippines. Releasing the special, "In His Elements," on June 12, the Philippines' Independence Day, is no accident.

"It's a very special moment for me. This is that one special where I was like I need to go back home, the Philippines," he said on his Instagram video.

"I need to show the people where my mom is from. I had this crazy idea; I was like let me bring a bunch of my friends that are Filipino that live in America that haven't even been back to the Philippines.

"Let's show how beautiful the country is, let's show how beautiful the people are and lets just do a show. It's called Jo Koy: In His Elements."

According to Deadline, among Koy's Filipino American friends accompanying him to Manila include famed breakdancer Ronnie, Grammy-winning producer !llmind, singer/songwriter Inigo Pascual, and comedians Andrew Lopez, Joey Guila and Andrew Orolfo.

Its not the first time Koy is visiting the Philippines. He often visits relatives in the Philippines. "I made some of my most memorable childhood experiences in the Philippines," Koy shared, adding that he lived here for six years

Beer commercial stirs pride of being a Filipino American

YOUTUBE

Jo Koy toasts his mother.

A touching beer commercial makes a little history by showing what a Filipino American is all about.

Normally, we don't show entire commercials on this blog but we're making an exception for this one done by Filipino American standup comedian Jo Koy and his mom because, hey, March is Women's History Month.

Koy is perhaps the hottest comedian right now. Not only is he filling sold-out sports arenas on his "Just Kidding" world tour he has a movie in the works featuring his Filipino American family.

He says that a lot of people forget to simply be grateful. "Sometimes we forget to say thank you to the ones you love. I toasted my mother and thanked her for everything she sacrificed, so I can chase my dream of being a comedian," says Koy.

We've seen other commercials with Filipinos in it but usually in the 30-seconds or couple of minutes it takes to extol its product, the character's ethnicity or story is secondary to selling the product.

In this ad, Sam Adams -- the beer -- is an afterthought to the  heart of the ad which features a mother and son relationship and their love for each other.. The product's role doesn't even come into the picture until the very end during the emotional toast.

In the commercial, Koy lifts a toast to his mother, Josie, who as a single mother, raised her children in Kent, Washington, near Seattle, to be proud of their Filipino roots, which play a major part of the comedian's routine. 

It is part of Sam Adams beer's "Toast Someone" ad campaign that was launched during the 2019 holiday season. Koy's commercial began airing last month.

The action of expressing gratitude has a positive impact on both the giver and receiver, but people are likely not doing it nearly as much as they should in their daily lives.

As part of the campaign, Sam Adams has also created a limited-edition Toast Someone two-pack carrier that fits two Boston Lagers and includes space for a written sentiment, because 49% of respondents in a survey stated that feeling awkward was the biggest barrier to expressing appreciation and we recognize a small prompt go a long way.
What I love about the commercial is that it shows two Filipinos as human beings with a very real mother-son relationship to which anyone could relate. No explanation is necessary.

By Josie's appearance, it is obvious that she is an immigrant. While non-Filipinos will her her accent, Filipinos will instantly recognize it her accent. 

The world might not instantly be cognizant of two very Filipino traits that show up in the commercial.  Filipinos will recognize the concept of utang na loob, indebtedness. In Koy's case, he feels deeply indebted towards his mother, and he shows the respect and honor that Filipinos reserve for elders. These two cultural traits, some might say, strongly influences the Filipino psyche.

When Koy and his mother toast, they both tear up in a moment of genuine emotion.

Another reason I'm so taken by the commercial is because it reminds me of my own mother, who as a military wife, had to raise her brood of three by herself for long stretches  of time while my father was stationed overseas. She learned to drive, paid the bills and managed to raise the three of us through the turbulent teens as we struggled to fit in.

How she did it in a strange land and strange language without the support of the rest of her family -- I'll never know.

She was a teacher in the Philippines but she sorted tomatoes in the nearby farms and canned tomatoes in a factory in town to supplement the meager military paycheck sent by my dad.

After graduating with a Bachelor's of Architecture degree from UC Berkeley, I made the announcement that I wanted to become a filmmaker/writer. To my surprise and contrary to the stereotypical Asian parents pushing their kids to careers as doctors and lawyers, my parents didn't object even though my earlier goal of becoming an architect was their dream, too.

After my father passed away and I began working as a journalist with a Filipino American  newspaper, she supported my decision all the way. 

Though their stories are mostly untold and their sacrifices unheralded, to the strong immigrant women who persisted through the trials and tribulations of acculturation, we join Koy in toasting, honoring and love to all the immigrant mothers. Thank you, thank you, thank you.