James Hong, the legendary and versatile actor, turned 94 years old last week, and he’s still eager to take on new roles. Despite being in the entertainment industry for over six decades, Hong remains active, vivacious, and persistent in his acting career. With a career spanning back to the 1950s, Hong has established himself as one of the most versatile actors in both film and television and is still best known for his roles in “Blade Runner,” “Big Trouble in Little China,” and “Wayne’s World 2.”
Hong’s latest credit is in Disney’s newest film, “Raya and the Last Dragon,” where he voiced the role of “Chai,” a restaurant owner. The movie premiered six days after Hong’s birthday, and he expressed his excitement about the film’s release shortly before it hit theaters.
“This is my chance to finally play a character in a Disney movie,” Hong says, “It’s really a dream come true for me.”
Hong’s passion for acting is evident, even at his age. He has worked in television and film for the majority of his life, and his roles have been both wide-ranging and recognizable. In 2017, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Asian World Film Festival in recognition of his contributions to film and television, particularly in bringing Asian-American representation to the screen.”
Despite being a legend in the industry, Hong has spoken candidly about the challenges he has faced throughout his career. For example, Hong claims that he lost out on roles early in his career because he refused to play demeaning ethnic stereotypes that Hollywood was pushing on Asian-Americans. Still, he remained resilient and continued auditioning for roles that meant something to him.
“My philosophy is to never quit, always pitch in, and stay creative,” Hong says, “I love what I do, and it keeps me alive.”
Hong has been candid about the longevity of his career and credits it all to his passion for the acting profession. His work in the industry has been awe-inspiring, and his passion and enthusiasm are infectious. His motto – to stay creative and never quit – is a testament to his ever-youthful spirit and commitment to pursuing what he loves.
In conclusion, James Hong continues to be one of the most resilient and dynamic actors in the entertainment industry and a source of inspiration to young and upcoming actors. At 94 years old, he remains incredibly passionate and committed to acting, and his resume speaks to his versatility and his tremendous contributions to the world of entertainment. We can only hope to see more of James Hong in the coming years.
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