Press Play with Madeleine Brand
BD Wong on playing Awkwafina’s dad and teaching audiences about anti-Asian racism
Comedy Central’s hit show “ Awkwafina is Nora from Queens" is loosely based on the life of actress/musician Awkwafina. Her father, Wally, is played by B.D. Wong (“Law and Order: SVU,” “Jurassic Park”). He talks to Press Play about how this role is a refreshing departure from all his past ones, and how directing an episode is his chance to remind audiences of the impact of anti-Asian sentiment.
By Michell Eloy • • 50m ListenComedy Central’s hit show “Awkwafina is Nora from Queens,” now in season two, is loosely based on the life of actress/musician Awkwafina. Her father, Wally, is played by BD Wong (“Law and Order: SVU,” “Jurassic Park”). He talks to Press Play about how this role is a refreshing departure from all his past ones, and how directing an episode is his chance to remind audiences of the impact of anti-Asian sentiment.
Critics also review the latest films, including “The Eyes of Tammy Faye” and “Prisoners of the Ghostland.”
Gov. Newsom recently signed two major housing bills, and one former translator for the U.S. military shares his efforts to get his family out of Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.
