The quote reflects a sentiment felt by many Asian fans of "Star Wars" who have struggled to find characters they can personally identify with or emulate through cosplay, a form of role-playing where participants dress up as their favorite fictional characters. This sense of alienation arises when these fans choose to portray any character and are met with comments that emphasize their ethnicity, such as being called “Asian Rey” or another variant.
The deeper meaning behind the quote delves into the broader issue of representation in popular media. It highlights how underrepresentation can lead to a disconnect between the audience and the characters they admire. When fans cannot see themselves reflected in the stories and characters presented on screen, it creates a barrier that affects not only their enjoyment but also their sense of belonging within the fan community. The comment about being labeled as "Asian Rey" suggests an underlying assumption that certain characters are inherently more suited to people from specific ethnic backgrounds, which can be both alienating and limiting for fans who do not fit these prescribed molds.
The quote is spoken by Kelly Marie Tran, a Vietnamese-American actress best known for her role in the "Star Wars" sequel trilogy as Rose Tico. Tran has been outspoken about issues of representation and diversity within Hollywood, making her voice particularly impactful when discussing topics related to cultural identity and inclusion in popular franchises like "Star Wars."
