Aparna Nancherla
Mira, Royal Detective to
All-American Girl, comedienne Aparna Nancherla reflects on TV programs that highlight Asian American and Pacific Islander culture, and also had an impact on her trailblazing career.
Her list recognizes the groundbreaking AAPI comedy pioneers and creators who have paved the way for more representation on television.
Mira, Royal Detective (Disney) - This is an animated show for kids that I am lucky to be a part of. It's the first cartoon featuring an all-South Asian cast with a female lead. The writers and creators have done a meticulous job of making sure the show is culturally respectful and sound. During voiceover sessions, even my pronunciation would be double-checked, just to be safe! It's something I would have loved to have seen when I was a kid, and I'm so glad South Asian kids today are seeing themselves centered on screen more and more, not to mention witnessing their culture depicted as more than just a stereotype. Am I biased because I finally get to play a self-absorbed, vapid teenager? Maybe.