Exclusive Interview: Tzi Ma and Archie Kao Explore ‘Interior Chinatown,’ Challenging Audiences, and Its Cultural Significance

Tzi Ma and Archie Kao are icons in the entertainment industry whose contributions have transcended the screen, opening countless doors for the Asian community. With careers spanning decades, they have consistently broken barriers, championed authentic representation, and proven that Asian-led stories belong at the forefront of Hollywood. Through their impactful roles and advocacy behind the scenes, Tzi and Archie have inspired generations of artists and audiences, paving the way for a more inclusive future.

Now, the two trailblazers unite in Interior Chinatown. Based on Charles Yu’s National Book Award-winning novel, the show delves into themes of identity, representation, and the performative nature of stereotypes, all within a uniquely crafted narrative presented in script form. With Yu serving as showrunner, Tzi and Archie had the rare privilege of collaborating directly with the story’s creator, allowing them to bring their characters to life with authenticity and personal insight, making this project as transformative as it is innovative.

Pop Culturalist had the pleasure of speaking with Tzi and Archie about Interior Chinatown.

PC: Tzi, when we spoke for Kung Fu, you described the series as a way of reclaiming. I feel the same can be applied to Interior Chinatown. What was it about this story that resonated with you, and how much of your own experiences mirrored those of your character?
Tzi: This show is definitely outside the box, whereas Kung Fu is a more traditional show. You expect certain things to happen in Kung Fu, but with Interior Chinatown, just look at the title—it’s not Interior Chinatown; it’s Int. Chinatown. When you see that, you realize it’s presented in script form, so there’s something different happening here. This show has a level of complexity I believe audiences will enjoy discovering as they watch. It doesn’t hand everything over to them—you have to work for it a bit, and I think that’s exciting. Often, audiences are like, “Man, I know what’s coming next.” But guess what? That’s not the case with this show. Expect the unexpected.

PC: It’s definitely a show that challenges you. Archie, you’ve shared this beautiful sentiment in the past—that the way to drive change in this industry is through creative actions. A show like Interior Chinatown is not only entertaining but has such a profound impact on audiences who look like us. There was a point in your career, after you left Chicago P.D., when there was a scarcity of roles and projects like this. What has it meant to you to be part of a movement ensuring future generations won’t have to experience something similar? And what was it about this character that resonated with you?
Archie: Wow. First of all, I appreciate your research. I remember when I left Chicago P.D., I felt a bit disenfranchised by the lack of opportunities to play characters with depth, beyond just data transfer. I went to Asia, and even though I didn’t speak any Mandarin at the time, I started playing these more fully realized characters. When I came back, the milieu had evolved a bit. Now, with more content creators working behind the scenes, we’re seeing opportunities like this emerge—and that’s incredibly exciting. I couldn’t sleep when I heard about this show. I kept thinking, “I have to be a part of this.” If I weren’t here right now, sitting next to Tzi and talking to you, I would be heartbroken. But I’m so grateful for this opportunity because it’s profound—not just for personal expression but for the community at large.

PC: The two of you have made such a significant impact on our community. It’s also so rare to see the author of the source material serve as the showrunner. How did that collaboration allow each of you to take agency over your character, and what’s something new that you brought to them beyond what was on the page?
Tzi: That’s a dream for an actor. You’re a creative participant rather than just a puppet who walks here, says this, and moves there. Having the opportunity to contribute creatively is incredibly exciting and rewarding. It makes you feel welcomed, respected, and included. Honestly, what more could you want as a human being?

Archie: I’m just going to copy and paste what he said. That’s exactly it.

Make sure to follow Tzi (Instagram) and Archie (X/Instagram). Season 1 of Interior Chinatown is available on Hulu today.

Photo Credit: Mike Taing/Hulu