Source: The May Kazine, April 6, 2010
But could Koreatown fight the beat?
“Looking for interesting, attractive, colorful Asian-Americans to cast in a reality show similar to ‘Jersey Shore,’ ‘Real World,’ ‘The Hills,’ etc. . .” the notice reads.
“We need attractive Asian-Americans with lively, strong and unique personalities between the ages of 18 to 30 with equally interesting life stories and perspectives to share, especially individuals who know about and/or experienced the Koreatown life.”
Casting isn’t limited strictly to Asian-Americans either.
“If you are not Asian but are obsessed with Asian culture or people in some way, email us and please explain,” it said.
Via Asian-American ‘Jersey Shore’ puts out casting calls – NYPOST.com.
Everyone read that last line? Apparently the network that might be MTV has discovered Yellow Fever. I am personally really looking forward to some pasty White Comic-Con nerd with a sword collection learning three Asian languages to submit a tape and get on the show. (Look at me! I stereotyped!)
Of course this brings up a lot of concern from Asian American communities – What stereotypes will this drudge up? Not that I condone the perpetuation of manipulated images of minorities in the media, but a part of me thinks this is a necessary step for more natural (second nature, less forced/token) integration of Asians in American media. Asian Americans pretty much own America’s Best Dance Crew, but you don’t hear MTV piping up about it, only minority media outlets. Unfortunately, I think every minority racial group will have to go through its bamboozled moment, because this is mainstream exposure that will hit the masses. And hey, even I enjoyed Jersey Shore. People who try out volunteer their lives, their drama, and probably their class. It is up to us to recognize the image they portray as their own personality, scripted and edited down to memorable soundbytes.
Like Snookie and the types before her, maybe this KTown group will feel like they’re reclaiming the AA image. (Side note: Snookie’s not Italian! She was raised Italian American, and you know I’m all for a person’s right to self-identify. Go ‘head, Snookie. Be Italian.)
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