TV can be a powerful way to experience the stories and perspectives that shape our world – and right now, there’s no shortage of standout programming that puts Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) voices front and center.
Why it matters: When more voices and cultures are reflected on screen, we all benefit. These stories open minds, deepen understanding, and help push the entertainment world toward greater inclusion.
With May marking AAPI Heritage Month, it’s the perfect time to spotlight shows that reflect the richness, diversity, and creativity of the AAPI community. We’ve rounded up four shows that do precisely that – and they’re worth watching this month and beyond.
1. “Deli Boys”
When their dad dies unexpectedly, two mismatched brothers inherit more than just a deli shop – they’re handed the keys to his shady business empire. As they try to make sense of their new roles, the brothers also start to unpack what it means to be first-generation Americans, carrying the weight of a legacy they never asked for.
What sets it apart: Created by Pakistani-American writer Abdullah Saeed, “Deli Boys” brings sharp humor with cultural insight, spotlighting South Asian identity in a way that feels fresh, funny, and enlightening.
Where to watch: Season one is streaming now on Hulu and Disney+.
2. “Shōgun”
Set in 17th-century Japan, “Shōgun” follows a shipwrecked English sailor caught up in a battle for power between feudal warlords. What begins as a survival story quickly evolves into a sweeping epic about honor, strategy, and culture – with stunning visuals and high-stakes drama to match.
What sets it apart: With 18 Emmy wins and two more seasons already greenlit, “Shōgun” is one of the most celebrated shows of recent memory. Its success stems not only from its epic storytelling and production scale, but also from its commitment to centering Japanese characters and creatives – delivering an authentic, nuanced portrayal of Japanese history that pushes beyond the typical Western lens.
Where to watch: Season one is streaming now on Hulu and Disney+.
3. “The Sympathizer”
Based on Viet Thanh Nguyen’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, “The Sympathizer” tells the story of a half-Vietnamese, half-French communist spy who flees to the U.S. after the Vietnam War. As he tries to build a new life in exile, he’s haunted by divided loyalties, buried secrets, and the lies he must keep telling to survive.
What sets it apart: Part spy thriller, part dark comedy, part cultural satire, this genre-bending mini-series features a predominantly Vietnamese cast and offers a fresh perspective on post-war identity, displacement, and duality.
Where to watch: Streaming now on Max.
4. “Interior Chinatown”
Willis Wu is stuck playing “Generic Asian Man” in a cheesy TV cop show — until he dares to imagine something more for himself. Based on the bestselling book by Charles Yu, this smart, funny series blurs the line between reality and fiction as Willis fights to rewrite the script of his own identity.
What sets it apart: With inventive storytelling, genre shifts, and a deeply self-aware tone, “Interior Chinatown” offers a meta-commentary on Asian representation in Hollywood. It blends humor, heart, and social critique in a way that’s both thought-provoking and unexpectedly funny.
Where to watch: Season one is streaming now on Hulu.
Looking For Even More AAPI Stories?
Peacock has a dedicated hub for AAPI Heritage Month, making it easy to explore even more stories that spotlight AAPI voices and experiences.
The collection includes everything from powerful dramas like “Memoirs of a Geisha” to popular anime like “Naruto.” It’s a great way to discover more voices, genres, and perspectives all in one place. Check it out here.
Even after AAPI Heritage Month is over, these stories are worth keeping on your radar. Watching and supporting shows like these helps open the door for even more diverse voices on screen.
Want to learn more about how Beyond works to expand representation on TV? Click here.
