“Comedy InvAsian III” Adds “Mortal Kombat II” Star Ludi Lin to Season 3 lineup
The highly anticipated third season of “Comedy InvAsian,” the groundbreaking AAPI stand-up comedy showcase, is bolstering its cast with the addition of actor Ludi Lin, known for his role in the upcoming “Mortal Kombat II.” Lin joins a stellar lineup of comedians, signaling a continued commitment to amplifying Asian voices in comedy.
A Platform for Rising AAPI Talent
Created by Koji Steven Sakai of Little Nalu Pictures, and executive produced by Victor Elizalde of Viva Pictures alongside Quentin Lee of Margin Films, “Comedy InvAsian” has quickly become a vital platform for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) comedians. Each episode features a unique 30-minute stand-up set, offering a diverse range of perspectives and comedic styles. The series premiered as a hulu exclusive in 2018 and has since expanded its reach, now streaming on Peacock, Tubi, and Amazon Prime.
From Showcase to Launchpad: The Series’ Impact
“Comedy InvAsian” isn’t just about providing a stage; it’s about launching careers. The show has served as a crucial stepping stone for numerous AAPI comics, including Atsuko Okatsuka, Joey Guila, Robin Tran, and Jiaoying Summers, propelling them to wider recognition and opportunities within the television industry. This track record of success underscores the series’ importance in a media landscape often lacking in diverse portrayal.
Season 3: A New Wave of Comedic Voices
The third season promises to continue this trend, introducing audiences to a fresh cohort of talent. Joining Ludi Lin are Juno Men, Erik Escobar, Trevor Jang, Michelle MaliZaki, Shivaan Nadan, Kitty Pine, and Vanja Renee. Erik Escobar brings experience from Prime Video’s “beast Games” and NBC’s “Last Comic Standing,” while Trevor Jang will be making his television debut. The diverse backgrounds of the performers – from Filipino American Kitty Pine to the Korean and Black heritage of Vanja Renee – ensure a rich tapestry of comedic viewpoints.
filming and Premiere details
Season 3 will be filmed live on Valentine’s weekend, February 14-15, at the Japanese American National Museum’s Tateuchi Democracy Forum in Los Angeles. The series is strategically slated to premiere in may,coinciding with AAPI Heritage Month,and is being positioned for Emmy consideration in the Outstanding Variety Series category in 2026. Quentin Lee’s spinoff, “comedy Invasion,” previously earned a 2024 canadian Screen Award for Best Comedy Special, demonstrating the quality and critical acclaim associated with this creative team.
Industry Recognition and Distribution
Victor Elizalde,president of Viva Pictures,emphasizes the series’ dual role as both a cultural platform and a talent discovery engine. He highlights the success of previous seasons, noting how performers like Atsuko Okatsuka and Jiaoying Summers have captivated audiences and paved the way for future stars. Viva Pictures will distribute Season 3 on AAM.tv, Tubi, and Prime Video, alongside their existing comedy specials featuring Nick Swardson, Gary Owen, and Craig Ferguson. Their original series, “Entre Nos,” continues to thrive as an HBO exclusive.
The production Powerhouses Behind the Scenes
Little Nalu Pictures, known for its commitment to diverse and inclusive storytelling, is based in South Pasadena, California, and has a proven track record with projects appearing on major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Peacock. Margin Films, founded by Quentin Lee in 1996 and incorporated in both Canada and California, brings decades of experience to the production. Together, these companies are dedicated to providing a platform for underrepresented voices in comedy.
Looking Ahead: The future of AAPI Representation in Comedy
“Comedy InvAsian” represents more than just a television show; it’s a statement about the growing demand for diverse representation in entertainment. By consistently showcasing the talent and perspectives of AAPI comedians, the series is not only providing opportunities for individual performers but also challenging industry norms and paving the way for a more inclusive future. As the series prepares for its third season premiere, it stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of comedy to bridge cultural divides and celebrate the richness of the AAPI community.