Daniel Dae Kim Makes History at the Tony Awards
Daniel Dae Kim, known for his work in popular TV shows like “Lost” and “Hawaii Five-0,” has achieved a remarkable milestone as he becomes the first Asian American nominee for Best Leading Actor in a Play at the Tony Awards. This historic nomination comes 35 years after he performed a monologue from David Henry Hwang’s play “FOB” during a college summer program.
This year, Kim is recognized for his role in the Broadway revival of Hwang’s “Yellow Face,” a satirical exploration of racial identity and representation. Reflecting on this moment, Kim expressed astonishment that he and Hwang—who made history as the first Asian American to win a Tony for Best Play—are now friends and colleagues nominated together.
“Being nominated is a win, especially for our community,” Kim stated. He noted that there is still much work to be done for Asian representation in theater, mentioning that he was surprised that other Asian actors had not been recognized in this category, and pointed out that no Asian actress has ever been nominated for Best Leading Actress in a Play.
“Yellow Face,” which garnered critical acclaim during its run, not only achieved recognition for its storytelling but significantly increased audience engagement, with many first-time viewers attending the show. Kim is proud that the production brought Asian Americans into the theater, emphasizing its importance for the future of the arts.
Hwang, who wrote the play, expressed his pride in being a part of this significant cultural moment. He believes that the advancements made by actors like Kim are breaking barriers in a field that historically overlooked Asian American narratives.
In the current cultural climate, where discussions around representation and racial identity are at the forefront, Kim’s performance is particularly relevant. He has been a vocal advocate against anti-Asian hate, especially during the pandemic, and has been involved in campaigns to promote awareness and recognition for older Asian actors, like James Hong.
As the Tony Awards approach, Kim’s journey is a shining example of the strides being made toward greater inclusivity in the entertainment industry—an encouraging sign for young actors of all backgrounds aspiring to shine on Broadway.
