What's Happening?
Manny Jacinto, known for his roles in 'The Good Place' and 'Top Gun: Maverick', shared insights into his career journey during an exclusive interview at the TIME100 Next Gala. Jacinto expressed disbelief at his success, noting that his younger self would
have expected a career in engineering rather than acting. He highlighted the transformative impact of his role in 'The Good Place', which allowed him to transition from living with roommates to achieving financial stability. Jacinto also discussed his experience in 'Top Gun: Maverick', acknowledging the limited screen time but valuing the opportunity to work on a major film. He emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for Asian-American actors, inspired by his experiences in the industry.
Why It's Important?
Manny Jacinto's reflections underscore the challenges and triumphs faced by actors of color in Hollywood. His journey from aspiring engineer to successful actor highlights the evolving landscape of representation in the entertainment industry. Jacinto's call for more self-created opportunities for Asian-Americans and people of color is significant in the context of ongoing discussions about diversity and inclusion in media. His story resonates with broader societal shifts towards recognizing and addressing the underrepresentation of minority groups in various sectors, including entertainment.
