Asian American Television Programming

Since the earliest years of American television programming, minorities have struggled to find substantial roles and professions within the industry. As late as 1989, a report commissioned by the Writers Guild of America found that minorities made up only 2% of people hired by major television and film companies. In addition, the roles offered to minorities historically have often reflected stereotypes that restrict the degree to which minority actors may display their talents and abilities. While these constraints have affected most minorities in America, Asian Americans have been particularly affected by the practice of typecasting.

Due to discrimination, American television has provided few opportunities for Asian American actors, writers, and television professionals to display their abilities. American commercial television has generally tried to maintain and control ...