Manny Jacinto: Redefining Asian Masculinity
Manny Jacinto is no longer just a rising star in Hollywood; he’s a movement. With his magnetic charm and undeniable talent, Jacinto is reshaping the landscape of the entertainment industry, challenging long-standing stereotypes and redefining what it means to be an Asian actor in Hollywood.
From Vancouver to Hollywood
Manny Jacinto’s path to Hollywood was anything but typical. Born in the Philippines and raised in Vancouver, Jacinto initially pursued a degree in civil engineering, a career path that quickly proved unfulfilling.
“I wasn’t passionate about it,” Jacinto recalled. Driven by a desire for something more, he turned to acting — a decision that would later transform his life.
Jacinto’s early roles in shows like Supernatural and The 100 were small but significant, showcasing his potential. The true turning point came with his casting as Jason Mendoza in NBC’s The Good Place. As a lovable yet dim-witted DJ, Jason could have been a mere caricature, but Jacinto infused the character with depth and warmth, making him one of the show’s most beloved figures.
Challenging Stereotypes
Jacinto’s portrayal of Jason Mendoza was more than just a career milestone; it was a cultural shift. For too long, Asian men in Hollywood had been confined to stereotypes — often depicted as asexual, nerdy, or undesirable. Jacinto’s Jason, however, was a refreshing departure from these tropes. He was goofy, yes, but also charming, fun, and fully realized. In an industry that had long sidelined Asian men, Jacinto’s portrayal was groundbreaking.
“Jason was a character we hadn’t really seen before,” notes Nancy Wang Yuen, a sociologist who specializes in race and media. “He had his own story, his own desires. That’s incredibly important for representation.”
Jacinto’s success in The Good Place not only showcased his versatility but also challenged the consensus around Asian masculinity in mainstream media, proving that Asian actors could be central to the story’s narrative.
Breaking into Star Wars
Manny Jacinto’s recent role in The Acolyte, a series set in the Star Wars universe, marks another significant milestone in his career. Beyond all the TikTok thirst traps, his involvement in such a major franchise sends a powerful message. Historically, Star Wars has been dominated by white leads, so Jacinto’s inclusion signals a meaningful shift toward greater diversity in one of Hollywood’s most iconic franchises.
“Manny Jacinto’s role in The Acolyte is huge,” says Keith Chow, founder of The Nerds of Color. “It’s about time Asian actors are seen as central figures in major franchises, not just in supporting roles.”
Jacinto’s casting in The Acolyte further challenges outdated stereotypes, demonstrating that Asian men can be complex, dynamic characters who drive the narrative forward — and are equally capable of being portrayed as both attractive and desirable.
Setting a New Standard
Manny Jacinto’s career is more than just a series of personal achievements, his roles have redefined how Asian men are portrayed in the media. Jacinto’s success is not only a win for him but also a significant step forward for all Asian actors who have been historically overlooked in the industry.
As Hollywood evolves, Jacinto’s career stands as a blueprint for what meaningful representation can look like. He’s not just changing the industry— he’s helping to create a new one, where every actor, regardless of background, has the opportunity to shine. His rise is a reminder that the stories we tell — and the people we choose to tell them — shape the world that we live in.
This article is featured in the upcoming August 2024 Maiden Issue of SELYU Magasin, an independent film magazine launched by Celluloid, the official film club of Philippine Science High School — Main Campus.
