It’s been another phenomenal year for Asian Americans in acting, and I’m almost through finishing this year’s catalogue of the Top 10 Asian American Actors/Actresses. As I sit and type the final draft, something suddenly hits me – Asian Americans in acting in Hollywood have a long standing history. How far do we go back? You’d be surprised.

Fast forward to the 21st Century. Asian Americans acting in Hollywood has become more mainstream. And despite the far too frequent racism seen in casting, Asian Americans are engaged in/and participating more in Hollywood, now more than ever. What surprises me most? The WORLD’s perception of Asians. Its shifting. Apparently, the roles of Asians (in general) are moving beyond the previous stereotypes/portrayals/depictions of Asians past. You know, the effeminate Asian male and the Fu-Manchu/Gung-fu roles that had many people think I knew Kha-rah-tee when I was growing up. In short, the roles now are continuing to be more Universal. Roles that the WORLD can relate to. The point of Acting in the first place, IMHO.

Don’t get me wrong, though. I love the fact we’re still depicted as the mostBadAzifug fellas on the block. Or, the sexiest women in the building. But wait. I digress from the point (point-o desu!) of my post: Hollywood has changed since these Actors/Actresses of Hollywood past have been in it. And I would LOVE/ADORE to see these Asian American Actors back in the Hollywood spotlight. So for your consideration, a list of Asian American Actors that Hollywood needs to bring Back!:

Click on foto for Bio w/ video:

And there you have it. This list was pretty difficult to put together, but suffice it to say I am going to go ahead and dub the above mentioned Actors/Actresses as those that Hollywood needs to bring BACK! We missing anyone? If so, which Asian American Actors do YOU think Hollywood needs to bring back? Make your voices heard in the comments.

Also, your list of the Top 10 Asian American Actors of 2009 is coming SOON! And for many of you wondering, yup! One list for the Fellas. And NOW! One for the Ladies. Stay tuned…