In this episode we are joined by puppeteer, voice actor, and producer Kathleen Kim, who has brought asian representation to Sesame Street, through the newest member of the beloved cast, Ji-Young. Her incredible role as Ji-Young not only empowers AAPI children as they see themselves in such a manner, but also reconnects the bond of diverse communities within this PBS longtime favorite.
As Kathleen touches on the creation, progress, and overall impact of this journey with Ji-Young, we are immersed into the deeper meaning of Ji-Young’s presence, creating a picture of how she contributes to the AAPI community. On a more personal note, Kathleen shares her own relationship to the character, gratefully expressing that she learns many characteristics that she herself does not hone, describing that puppeteering is a force in which you breathe life into someone/ or something. Her lively personality rings through her jokes, laughs, and smiles as she expresses her luck in receiving this role, and how she plans to continue making a positive impact in television.
The See Us Coming Together special has been nominated in 2022 for Outstanding Fictional Special Emmy, and Outstanding Writing for a Live Action Preschool or Children's Program Emmy. You can also find her work in Awkwafina is Nora from Queens (2020), Helpsters (2019), and A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (2019).
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