Harry Shum Jr., known for his roles in Glee and Everything Everywhere All At Once, joins Jesse Tyler Ferguson on the podcast. They discuss topics like Harry's early dance career, working with Michelle Yeoh, Asian American representation in Hollywood, multicultural upbringing, and the importance of breaking stereotypes.
Embracing cultural identity and navigating different languages are crucial aspects of Harry Shum Jr.'s multicultural upbringing.
Harry reflects on the significance of projects like Crazy Rich Asians and Everything Everywhere All at Once in breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes in the media.
Deep dives
Podcast Episode: Harry Shum Jr. discusses multicultural upbringing and career
Harry Shum Jr., known for his roles in Glee, Grey's Anatomy, and Crazy Rich Asians, is interviewed by Jesse Tyler Ferguson. They discuss his multicultural upbringing, being a backup dancer for pop icons like Beyonce, and his experience working on the films Crazy Rich Asians and Everything Everywhere All at Once. Harry reflects on his career and the impact of Asian representation in Hollywood. They also talk about their friendship and reminisce about past experiences together.
The Importance of Embracing Cultural Identity
Harry Shum Jr. reflects on his multicultural upbringing and the importance of embracing one's cultural identity. He shares his experiences living in Costa Rica and later moving to the United States, speaking both Cantonese and Spanish. Harry discusses the challenges and rewards of navigating different cultures and languages, highlighting the significance of representation in the media. He emphasizes the need to humanize Asian American voices and break stereotypes.
Being Part of a Resurgence in Asian Representation
Harry Shum Jr. discusses his involvement in projects that have contributed to the recent surge in Asian representation in the entertainment industry. He highlights his experiences working on Glee and films like Crazy Rich Asians and Everything Everywhere All at Once. Harry reflects on the significance of these projects for the Asian community and the broader impact on breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes.
Collaboration and Artistry in the Entertainment Industry
Harry Shum Jr. shares his experiences collaborating with directors, actors, and crew members in the entertainment industry. He highlights the importance of treating everyone's role as essential to the creative process. Harry discusses the power of collaboration in bringing out the best in artistry and delivering impactful storytelling. He also emphasizes the need for authenticity and humanity in portraying diverse characters and cultures.
“Glee” and “Everything Everywhere All At Once” star Harry Shum Jr. joins the show. Over kampachi aquachile and a gorgeous whole fried snapper, Harry discusses his early dance career, working with Michelle Yeoh on “Everything Everywhere All At Once”, and Asian American representation in Hollywood. This episode was recorded on June 30, 2023 at Mírate in Los Feliz.
Want next week’s episode now? Subscribe to Dinner’s on Me PLUS. As a subscriber, not only do you get access to new episodes one week early, but you’ll also be able to listen completely ad-free!
Just click “Try Free” at the top of the Dinner’s on Me show page on Apple Podcasts to start your free trial today.
A Sony Music Entertainment & A Kid Named Beckett production.