Today we’d like to introduce you to Jake Choi.
Jake, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Born and raised in Queens, NY. Was always a curious, rambunctious kid, getting into trouble, playing sports, reading anything I can get my hands on. Loved making people laugh. Then started pursuing basketball seriously, and even played college/university basketball in NYC and South Korea. Eventually playing semi-pro ball for the US military team based in Seoul.
Upon quitting basketball, I came back to NYC and started taking acting classes at various schools and studios. I would audition for anything and would perform in small black box theatre plays and student films. Eventually, I would get cast in bigger theatre and tv/film productions such as Carnival Kids (Lesser America/TBG Theatre), Law and Order: SVU, Gotham, Broad City, etc. This year I got cast in my first series regular role on an ABC pilot called “Single Parents” which got picked up to series and we will be premiering September 26th, 9:30 et on ABC.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It hasn’t been a smooth road at all. I grew up in a single family household, where my mother had to be both parents. Didn’t have any direct and positive father figures, which was tough. But found some friends who were supportive of growing up. Being an Asian basketball player was tough also because there is a perception that Asians aren’t very good or don’t have the potential to be great ballers.
Maybe it’s a cultural thing, or maybe because there aren’t as many Asian Americans pursuing basketball beyond the high school level. Being an Asian actor or an actor of color, in general, is also difficult as an actor. We’re constantly fighting for our humanity as artists due to implicit or explicit racism and racial bias. But I do see a lot of progress, especially on TV, so that’s very encouraging.
Tell us more about the business.
I am an actor, I work on tv, film, stage and commercials. Most people noticed me in a Best Buy Super Bowl spot in 2013 opposite Amy Poehler. I’ve also had guest spots on Law and Order: SVU, Hawaii Five-0, Mysteries of Laura, Younger, and supporting roles in Wolves, Money Monster and a lead role on the indie film Front Cover which is available on Netflix right now.
I think my tattoos and inherent NY “edge” sets me apart from others, at least when it comes to actors.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
My new series regular role on the upcoming ABC comedy “Single Parents” have had some good luck on me already. It’s definitely helped me get some great auditions for feature films (which I booked), a bigger platform on social media, and exposure. And it hasn’t even aired yet!
Image Credit:
Jamaal Murray, Jess Dela Merced, Jeffrey Goritz
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