ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the concerns about Asian Americans and the media. It argues that Asian American representation and an engagement with popular media (both broadcast television and online) can be advanced through a collaborative effort among artists, producers, critics, and consumers. The chapter examines a multifaceted case that reveals the potential for a matrix stage, particularly as it has become dependent on digital media cultures. It analyzes a comparative case study that exemplifies the potential for the matrix stage: ABC's Asian American-centered sitcom Fresh Off the Boat, and an online counterpart, Fresh Off the Show, hosted by Phil Yu and Jenny Yang on Yu's YouTube channel. The chapter recognizes the emergence of a new mode of production—a matrix stage, whereby Asian American viewers are active and participatory in generating a legible response to mainstream texts. The dialectic between margin and mainstream is being addressed in a matrix space where Asian Americans are representing, creating, consuming, and even enjoying themselves.
