10 Most Iconic Asian American TV Characters

Cece Parekh (New Girl)

Cece Parekh, played by Hannah Simone, became a foundational part of New Girl’s comedic chemistry. As Jess’ grounded, sarcastic best friend, Cece balances the group’s eccentric chaos with loyalty and humor. When the sitcom premiered in 2011, Asian American women were rarely part of main ensemble casts. Her Indian heritage appears naturally throughout the show, especially during her wedding storyline, where cultural traditions are celebrated with joy.

Tom Haverford (Parks and Recreation)

Aziz Ansari’s Tom Haverford on Parks and Recreation blends ambition, sarcasm, and entrepreneurial spirit. While others focus on public service, Tom dreams of luxury, celebrity status, and business success. His schemes often fail spectacularly, yet his confidence never wavers. Beneath the humor lies commentary on navigating social mobility as a person of color, especially in predominantly white spaces.

Kamala Khan (Ms. Marvel)

Iman Vellani’s Kamala Khan brought a groundbreaking perspective to the Marvel universe. Kamala is a superhero fan, devoted daughter, and imaginative teenager who suddenly gains extraordinary powers. Her journey balances coming-of-age struggles with cultural identity, family expectations, friendship, and heroism. Seeing a young Pakistani American girl lead a Marvel series was amazing.

Mateo Liwanag (Superstore)

Nico Santos’ Mateo Liwanag brings sharp wit, competitiveness, and style to Superstore. He’s the co-worker who always aims higher, sometimes to hilarious extremes, yet remains lovable. His friendship with Cheyenne adds heart and comedic chemistry. Mateo’s storyline stands out because he isn’t just Asian American, he’s an undocumented immigrant.

Jessica Huang (Fresh Off the Boat)

Constance Wu’s Jessica Huang in Fresh Off the Boat helped redefine portrayals of Asian American motherhood. While she initially appears as a no-nonsense “tiger mom,” the character quickly reveals humor, ambition, warmth, and quirks that move beyond clichés. Jessica fiercely protects her family, yet also embraces fun and personal growth.

Jason Mendoza (The Good Place)

Jason Mendoza, played by Manny Jacinto on The Good Place, remains one of TV’s most memorable Asian American characters. A proud Jacksonville Jaguars superfan with a flair for questionable ideas, Jason may not be intellectually gifted, but his sincerity stands out. His warmth, loyalty, and impulsive honesty make him unexpectedly wise at times.

Kelly Kapoor (The Office)

Before becoming a major creative force in Hollywood, Mindy Kaling introduced audiences to Kelly Kapoor on The Office. Kelly thrives on drama, romance, and pop-culture chatter, stealing scenes with her outrageous reactions and turbulent relationship with Ryan. Unlike many portrayals of Asian Americans, Kelly isn’t necessarily connected to her cultural heritage and that’s intentional.

Janet Kim (Kim’s Convenience)

Andrea Bang’s Janet Kim from Kim’s Convenience represents a slice of Asian American life rarely highlighted on television. A photography student juggling college pressures, personal dreams, and responsibilities within her family’s convenience store, she often acts as an emotional bridge between relatives. Janet’s storyline resonates with many young Asian Americans out there.

Eve Polastri (Killing Eve)

Sandra Oh’s portrayal of Eve Polastri in Killing Eve cemented her place in television history. Eve begins as an intelligence officer but becomes consumed with tracking the unpredictable assassin Villanelle, sparking a dark psychological spiral. Her obsession blurs morality, and reveals a restless curiosity beneath her. Viewers continue rooting for her because she feels human, unpredictable, and deeply relatable.

Bruce Sun (The Brothers Sun)

Sam Song Li’s Bruce Sun from The Brothers Sun captures a different kind of Asian American experience. Unlike his crime-hardened brother Charles, Bruce dreams of becoming an improv comedian and living a normal college life. He wants autonomy rather than inheriting the family’s criminal legacy. Bruce’s humor, kindness, and determination make him easy to root for.