TV Series That Boosted Asian Representation Through Ensemble Casts

Television landscapes have shifted dramatically over the last few decades to embrace more authentic storytelling from diverse perspectives. Asian representation has evolved from stereotypical side characters to complex leads who drive the narrative in major network and streaming hits. These series utilize ensemble casts to explore the nuances of family dynamics and cultural clashes and professional ambitions. Audiences now have access to a wide variety of genres that highlight the richness of Asian experiences across the globe.

‘Fresh Off the Boat’ (2015–2020)

This groundbreaking sitcom follows the Huang family as they relocate from Washington D.C. to Orlando during the 1990s. The series is significant for being the first network television show in twenty years to feature an Asian-American family as the primary protagonists. Randall Park and Constance Wu deliver memorable performances as parents trying to maintain their cultural identity while raising assimilated children. ‘Fresh Off the Boat’ successfully blended humor with poignant observations about the immigrant experience in America.

‘Kim’s Convenience’ (2016–2021)

Set in Toronto, this Canadian sitcom centers on the Kim family and their interactions running a convenience store. The show garnered international acclaim for its heartfelt portrayal of intergenerational conflict and the immigrant working-class experience. Paul Sun-Hyung Lee and Jean Yoon shine as the traditional parents often baffled by their modern adult children. ‘Kim’s Convenience’ proved that specific cultural stories could resonate with a global audience through universal themes of family loyalty.

‘Warrior’ (2019–2023)

Based on the writings of Bruce Lee, this action-packed drama is set during the Tong Wars of San Francisco’s Chinatown in the late 19th century. The series features a predominantly Asian cast who navigate complex political alliances and brutal gang warfare. Andrew Koji leads an ensemble that defies historical stereotypes by portraying characters with agency and grit. ‘Warrior’ provides a visceral look at a forgotten chapter of American history through a sharp martial arts lens.

‘Shōgun’ (2024)

This historical drama adapts James Clavell’s novel with a renewed focus on the Japanese perspective of the feudal political landscape. Hiroyuki Sanada stars as Lord Toranaga and anchors a cast that delivers dialogue primarily in Japanese. The production has been praised for its meticulous attention to period detail and its refusal to center the narrative solely on the Western protagonist. ‘Shōgun’ sets a new standard for how Western productions can respectfully and authentically portray Asian history.

‘Beef’ (2023)

A road rage incident spirals into a complex feud that consumes the lives of two strangers in this dark comedy. Steven Yeun and Ali Wong deliver powerhouse performances that explore repressed anger and existential dread within the Asian-American community. The series uses its ensemble to dissect class differences and the pressures of modern success. ‘Beef’ was celebrated for its messy and flawed characters who break the mold of the model minority myth.

‘Squid Game’ (2021– )

This South Korean survival thriller became a worldwide phenomenon by critiquing capitalism through deadly children’s games. The ensemble cast features diverse characters from different sectors of society who are all united by desperation. Lee Jung-jae and HoYeon Jung gained international stardom for their compelling portrayals of survival and humanity. ‘Squid Game’ demonstrated that non-English language productions could dominate the global cultural conversation.

‘Pachinko’ (2022– )

Spanning multiple generations and languages, this sweeping saga chronicles the hopes and dreams of a Korean immigrant family. The series moves effortlessly between Korea and Japan and America to tell a story of resilience against historical adversity. Newcomer Minha Kim and veteran actor Yuh-Jung Youn anchor an impressive cast that brings depth to every timeline. ‘Pachinko’ is visually stunning and emotionally resonant in its depiction of the enduring impact of colonization.

‘The Brothers Sun’ (2024)

This action-comedy mixes high-stakes triad drama with the domestic struggles of a family living in Los Angeles. Michelle Yeoh stars as a protective mother whose secret past catches up with her oblivious younger son. The show subverts genre expectations by balancing brutal fight choreography with genuine family warmth and humor. ‘The Brothers Sun’ offers a fresh take on the gangster genre by rooting it firmly in the immigrant family dynamic.

‘Never Have I Ever’ (2020–2023)

Mindy Kaling co-created this coming-of-age comedy that focuses on the complicated life of a first-generation Indian-American teenager. Maitreyi Ramakrishnan plays Devi Vishwakumar as she navigates high school romance and grief and cultural expectations. The show is notable for its specific cultural references and its portrayal of a modern South Asian family. ‘Never Have I Ever’ resonated with audiences for its honest and often hilarious look at the teenage experience.

‘American Born Chinese’ (2023)

Based on the graphic novel, this series intertwines the life of an average teenager with figures from Chinese mythology. The show features an all-star cast including Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan who bring legendary characters to life in a modern setting. It cleverly uses fantasy elements to explore themes of identity and the desire to fit in. ‘American Born Chinese’ serves as both an action adventure and a thoughtful commentary on the Asian-American experience.

‘The Good Place’ (2016–2020)

This philosophical comedy features a diverse ensemble that includes standout performances from Manny Jacinto and Jameela Jamil. Jacinto’s portrayal of Jason Mendoza broke stereotypes by playing a lovable but dimwitted amateur DJ from Florida. Jamil’s Tahani Al-Jamil offered a hilarious critique of high-society pretension and perfectionism. ‘The Good Place’ seamlessly integrated these characters into its ethical inquiries without making their ethnicity the sole focus of their arcs.

‘Killing Eve’ (2018–2022)

Sandra Oh leads this spy thriller as Eve Polastri, an intelligence investigator who becomes obsessed with a skilled assassin. Oh’s performance was critically acclaimed for bringing nuance and wit to a genre typically dominated by white male leads. The series explores the complex psychological cat-and-mouse game between the two women. ‘Killing Eve’ revitalized the spy genre and solidified Oh’s status as a dramatic powerhouse.

‘Lost’ (2004–2010)

This mystery drama was a pioneer in casting a truly global ensemble, including major roles for Daniel Dae Kim and Yunjin Kim. Their characters Jin and Sun experienced a profound evolution from a traditional estranged couple to partners with deep romantic devotion. The show respected their linguistic heritage by featuring extensive dialogue in Korean with subtitles. ‘Lost’ paved the way for future network shows to trust audiences with subtitled storytelling and complex Asian characters.

‘Hawaii Five-0’ (2010–2020)

Set in the island state, this police procedural reboot maintained a strong Asian-American presence in its main cast for many seasons. Daniel Dae Kim and Grace Park played integral members of the task force who had their own rich backstories and action sequences. The show highlighted the unique cultural landscape of Hawaii and provided consistent visibility for Asian actors on primetime television. ‘Hawaii Five-0’ balanced high-octane action with character-driven plots that often touched on local heritage.

‘Into the Badlands’ (2015–2019)

Daniel Wu stars in and produces this post-apocalyptic martial arts drama loosely based on ‘Journey to the West’. The series is unique for its diverse casting and its stylized approach to action storytelling on American television. Wu plays a warrior searching for enlightenment in a brutal feudal society. ‘Into the Badlands’ brought cinema-quality martial arts choreography to the small screen while placing an Asian lead at the center of the narrative.

‘Dr. Ken’ (2015–2017)

Ken Jeong created and starred in this multi-camera sitcom based on his own experiences as a physician before becoming a comedian. The show centers on a chaotic but well-meaning doctor trying to balance his career and his family life. It provided a platform for Jeong to showcase his specific brand of comedy within a traditional family structure. ‘Dr. Ken’ was another important step in normalizing Asian-American families in the sitcom format.

‘The Mindy Project’ (2012–2017)

Mindy Kaling stars as an OB/GYN who is obsessed with romantic comedies and pop culture. The show was groundbreaking for featuring a South Asian woman as a messy and romantic and successful protagonist. Kaling wrote the character to be unapologetically flawed and confident. ‘The Mindy Project’ challenged the industry’s preconceived notions of who gets to be the romantic lead.

‘Master of None’ (2015–2021)

Aziz Ansari co-created this comedy-drama that explores the professional and personal life of a commercial actor in New York. The series is noted for tackling issues of representation in Hollywood and the immigrant parent dynamic with sharp wit. Ansari even cast his real-life parents to add a layer of authenticity to the storytelling. ‘Master of None’ offered a cinematic and thoughtful look at the millennial Asian-American experience.

‘Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens’ (2020– )

Rapper and actress Awkwafina stars in this comedy based on her real life growing up in Flushing, Queens. The show features BD Wong as her father and Lori Tan Chinn as her grandmother in a hilarious multi-generational dynamic. It embraces the specific eccentricity of its setting while exploring the universal struggle of young adulthood. ‘Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens’ is a vibrant showcase of Asian-American comedic talent.

‘Silicon Valley’ (2014–2019)

Kumail Nanjiani and Jimmy O. Yang play key roles in this satire of the tech industry culture. Nanjiani’s Dinesh and Yang’s Jian-Yang provided some of the show’s most memorable comedic moments through their rivalries and schemes. The series allowed them to play characters who were integral to the tech world setting without being reduced to mere background extras. ‘Silicon Valley’ used its ensemble to poke fun at the absurdities of the startup ecosystem.

‘Community’ (2009–2015)

This cult comedy featured Ken Jeong as the unstable Spanish teacher Señor Chang and Danny Pudi as the pop-culture obsessed Abed Nadir. Pudi’s performance was particularly praised for creating a unique character who defied social norms and became the emotional heart of the study group. Jeong provided chaotic energy that often drove the plot in unexpected directions. ‘Community’ thrived on the chemistry of its diverse cast and their ability to handle meta-humor.

‘Superstore’ (2015–2021)

Nico Santos plays Mateo Liwanag, a competitive and fashion-conscious employee at a big-box store. The character’s storyline eventually tackled the serious issue of undocumented immigration with sensitivity and humor. Santos brought a sharp wit to the ensemble that made Mateo a fan favorite. ‘Superstore’ succeeded in representing a slice of American working life that included diverse backgrounds naturally.

‘Glee’ (2009–2015)

Harry Shum Jr. and Jenna Ushkowitz played Mike Chang and Tina Cohen-Chang in this musical dramedy. While initially supporting roles, both characters grew to have significant storylines involving their artistic ambitions and relationships. The show allowed them to showcase their talents in dance and song to a massive global audience. ‘Glee’ was instrumental in bringing diverse young talent to the forefront of pop culture.

‘Bridgerton’ (2020– )

The second season of this hit period romance centered on the Sharma family, played by Simone Ashley and Charithra Chandran. The show reimagined Regency-era London as a diverse society where South Asian women could be the diamonds of the season. Ashley’s portrayal of Kate Sharma was praised for her chemistry with the lead and her strong will. ‘Bridgerton’ proved that inclusive casting could revitalize the period drama genre.

‘Ms. Marvel’ (2022)

Iman Vellani stars as Kamala Khan, a Pakistani-American teenager who discovers she has superpowers. The series is deeply rooted in the culture of Jersey City and explores the history of the Partition of India. It portrays the Khan family with warmth and specificity that resonates with many immigrant communities. ‘Ms. Marvel’ brought a fresh and youthful energy to the superhero genre while celebrating South Asian heritage.

‘Quantico’ (2015–2018)

Priyanka Chopra Jonas made waves as the first South Asian actress to headline an American network drama series. She played Alex Parrish, a promising FBI recruit who becomes a prime suspect in a terrorist attack. The show relied on a diverse ensemble of recruits who each harbored their own secrets and motivations. ‘Quantico’ showcased Chopra Jonas’s ability to carry a high-stakes action thriller.

‘Elementary’ (2012–2019)

Lucy Liu reimagined the role of Dr. Watson in this modern adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes stories set in New York. Her portrayal of Joan Watson was grounded and intelligent, serving as an equal partner to Holmes rather than a sidekick. The series allowed Watson to have her own professional agency and personal growth separate from the detective. ‘Elementary’ successfully modernized a classic literary duo with a gender-swapped Asian lead.

‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ (2015–2019)

Vincent Rodriguez III played Josh Chan, the object of the protagonist’s affection in this musical comedy. It was rare for an Asian-American man to be cast as the romantic lead and heartthrob of a mainstream show. The series also featured a large Filipino-American family cast that depicted holidays and gatherings authentically. ‘Crazy Ex-Girlfriend’ subverted romantic comedy tropes while boosting Filipino representation.

‘Shadow and Bone’ (2021–2023)

Jessie Mei Li stars as Alina Starkov, a mapmaker who discovers she possesses a power that could save her war-torn country. The casting of a mixed-race lead added a layer of depth to the character’s experience of feeling like an outsider. Amita Suman also shines as Inej Ghafa, a skilled spy with a strong moral code. ‘Shadow and Bone’ integrated diverse casting into its fantasy world building naturally.

‘3 Body Problem’ (2024– )

This sci-fi epic features a global cast including Benedict Wong, Jess Hong, and Zine Tseng to tell a story about first contact with aliens. The narrative is deeply rooted in the Chinese Cultural Revolution and its consequences for modern science. The actors deliver complex performances that span different timelines and realities. ‘3 Body Problem’ brings a seminal work of Asian science fiction to a Western audience with high production values.

‘The Sympathizer’ (2024)

Hoa Xuande stars as the Captain, a half-French, half-Vietnamese communist spy during the final days of the Vietnam War. The series offers a satirical and thrilling look at identity and espionage from a perspective rarely seen in Western media. It features a predominantly Vietnamese cast that reclaims the narrative of the war and its aftermath. ‘The Sympathizer’ is a challenging and visually distinct exploration of duality.

‘Kung Fu’ (2021–2023)

Olivia Liang leads this reimagining of the classic series as Nicky Shen, a young woman who uses her martial arts skills to protect her community. The show focuses heavily on the Shen family dynamics and their Chinese-American heritage. It blends supernatural elements with crime-fighting and family drama. ‘Kung Fu’ provided a platform for a large ensemble of Asian actors to tell a story about justice and community.

‘PEN15’ (2019–2021)

Maya Erskine co-created and stars in this cringe-comedy where she plays a thirteen-year-old version of herself. The show explores the awkwardness of middle school and the specific experience of being a mixed-race Japanese-American teen. Erskine’s performance is fearless and hilariously vulnerable. ‘PEN15’ received acclaim for its unique concept and its honest portrayal of female friendship and identity.

‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ (2022– )

Lola Tung stars as Belly in this romantic drama that features a mixed-race family at the center of a summer love triangle. The series treats the Asian-American identity of its protagonist as a natural part of her life rather than a plot device. It has been praised for providing Asian teens with a dreamy romantic narrative often reserved for white characters. ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ is a hit that normalizes diversity in the young adult romance genre.

‘XO, Kitty’ (2023– )

This spin-off of the ‘To All the Boys’ film franchise follows the youngest Covey sister as she attends a boarding school in Seoul. Anna Cathcart leads a cast that includes local Korean talent, bridging the gap between American teen dramas and K-dramas. The show explores the protagonist’s journey to connect with her late mother’s heritage. ‘XO, Kitty’ is a charming example of globalized storytelling for a younger generation.

‘Ghosts’ (2021– )

Utkarsh Ambudkar plays Jay Ardeos, a living human who moves into a haunted mansion with his wife who can see ghosts. Jay’s character is supportive and nerdy, often getting involved in the supernatural antics despite not seeing them himself. The show avoids stereotypes and presents him as a loving partner with his own passions. ‘Ghosts’ uses his outsider perspective to great comedic effect within the ensemble.

‘Sense8’ (2015–2018)

This sci-fi series follows eight strangers from around the world who become mentally and emotionally linked. Doona Bae plays a Korean businesswoman and underground fighter, while Tina Desai plays a scientist in Mumbai. The show was celebrated for shooting on location in their respective countries and exploring their specific cultural contexts. ‘Sense8’ championed global diversity and connection on a massive scale.

‘Heroes’ (2006–2010)

Masi Oka became a breakout star as Hiro Nakamura, a Japanese office worker who discovers he can manipulate time. His storyline was one of the most popular aspects of the show due to his pure-hearted heroism and enthusiasm. The series featured substantial dialogue in Japanese and followed his journey from Tokyo to the US. ‘Heroes’ was an early example of a global ensemble in the superhero genre.

‘Tokyo Vice’ (2022–2024)

An American journalist descends into the neon-soaked underbelly of Tokyo in this crime drama. Ken Watanabe and Rinko Kikuchi deliver commanding performances as a detective and a supervisor navigating the complexities of the yakuza and the press. The series is filmed on location and treats the city of Tokyo as a character itself. ‘Tokyo Vice’ offers a gritty and atmospheric look at Japanese crime syndicates.

‘Alice in Borderland’ (2020– )

Kento Yamazaki and Tao Tsuchiya lead this Japanese suspense series where characters are trapped in an abandoned Tokyo and forced to play dangerous games. The show became a global hit on streaming platforms for its high-stakes tension and clever psychological puzzles. It showcases the talent of the Japanese entertainment industry to a worldwide audience. ‘Alice in Borderland’ proves that high-concept sci-fi travels well across cultural lines.

‘Kingdom’ (2019– )

This South Korean series blends political period drama with a zombie apocalypse horror premise. Ju Ji-hoon and Bae Doona star in a story about a crown prince fighting a mysterious plague overtaking the land. The show is renowned for its beautiful cinematography and intense action sequences involving the undead. ‘Kingdom’ revitalized the zombie genre by infusing it with historical intrigue and martial arts.

‘The Cleaning Lady’ (2022– )

Élodie Yung stars as Thony De La Rosa, a Cambodian-Filipino doctor who becomes a cleaner for the mob to save her ailing son. The series sheds light on the plight of undocumented immigrants and the lengths a mother will go to for her child. It features a diverse cast that represents the unseen labor force in America. ‘The Cleaning Lady’ combines crime thriller elements with poignant social commentary.

‘One Piece’ (2023– )

The live-action adaptation of the best-selling manga features Mackenyu as Roronoa Zoro, the master swordsman of the Straw Hat Pirates. His performance captured the stoic cool of the anime character while showcasing impressive physical prowess. The series successfully translated the wacky world of the source material for a general audience. ‘One Piece’ set a high bar for anime adaptations with its diverse and charismatic cast.

‘House of Ninjas’ (2024)

This Japanese series follows the tawara family, the last ninja clan, who must return to their roots to face a new threat. It blends modern family drama with traditional shinobi action in a contemporary setting. The show explores the burden of tradition and the desire for a normal life. ‘House of Ninjas’ offers a stylish and updated take on ninja mythology.

‘Marco Polo’ (2014–2016)

Benedict Wong delivers a powerful performance as Kublai Khan in this historical drama about the famous explorer’s time in the Mongol Empire. The series invested heavily in recreating the scale and grandeur of the 13th-century court. It provided rare leading roles for Asian actors in an epic Western production. ‘Marco Polo’ is remembered for Wong’s commanding screen presence and the visual splendor of the East.

‘Sullivan & Son’ (2012–2014)

Steve Byrne stars as a corporate lawyer who quits his job to take over his parents’ bar in Pittsburgh. The sitcom features a mixed-race protagonist and explores the dynamics of a Korean-Irish family. Jodi Long plays the sharp-tongued mother who often steals the scene with her blunt humor. ‘Sullivan & Son’ offered a working-class perspective on the Asian-American experience.

‘All-American Girl’ (1994–1995)

Margaret Cho starred in this pioneering sitcom about a rebellious Korean-American girl and her traditional family. Although short-lived, it was the first primetime sitcom to center on an Asian-American family. The show paved the way for future creators to demand more authentic representation. ‘All-American Girl’ remains a significant historical footnote in the fight for diversity on television.

‘Mo’ (2022– )

Comedian Mo Amer created and stars in this series about a Palestinian refugee living in Houston. The show navigates the complexities of the asylum process and the hustle required to survive without citizenship. It provides a rare and necessary perspective on the West Asian and Arab-American experience. ‘Mo’ balances humor and heartbreak to tell a deeply personal story of displacement.

Share your favorite series from this list and any others you think deserve recognition in the comments.