Yeun’s career began with small roles in TV shows like The Big Bang Theory and NTSF:SD:SUV. However, it was his portrayal of Glenn Rhee in The Walking Dead that shot him to fame. The show, which premiered in 2010, became a breakout hit and garnered a huge fan following thanks to its gripping storyline and thrilling action. Yeun’s character quickly became a fan favorite for his bravery and resourcefulness in the face of great danger.
Yeun played Glenn Rhee for six seasons before his character was killed off in a shocking twist in the seventh season of the show. Fans were devastated by the loss of one of the show’s most beloved characters, and Yeun’s performance in the episode, titled “The Day Will Come When You Won’t Be,” was widely praised. Despite his departure from the show, Yeun’s contribution to The Walking Dead helped establish him as one of Hollywood’s rising stars.
Since leaving The Walking Dead, Yeun has continued to work in both TV and film. He has appeared in critically acclaimed projects like the film, Sorry to Bother You, and the TV show, Invincible. He has also lent his voice to animated projects like The Star, a retelling of the Nativity story that features a diverse cast of voice actors.
In addition to his acting work, Yeun has also become involved in advocating for greater Asian representation in Hollywood. In a 2021 interview with The Guardian, Yeun spoke about the importance of diversity in storytelling and the need for more Asian-led projects. “We don’t want to be the only ones screaming about the same thing,” Yeun said. “We want everyone to talk about it, too. We want to come together and say, ‘Look, this is something that all people can get behind.’”
Yeun’s advocacy work has included collaborating with organizations like the Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund and speaking out against anti-Asian racism and hate crimes in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As an Asian-American actor, Yeun’s success in Hollywood is especially significant. Asian actors have long been underrepresented in the industry, and Yeun’s rise to fame has helped to challenge stereotypes and bring greater visibility to Asian voices and stories. Yeun’s career is a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance, and his dedication to advocating for greater representation and social justice makes him a valuable role model and leader in the industry.
In conclusion, Steven Yeun’s career has been marked by hard work, dedication, and a commitment to advocating for greater representation and diversity in Hollywood. From his breakthrough role in The Walking Dead to his work on behalf of Asian actors and storytellers, Yeun has made a significant impact on the industry and inspired countless others to follow in his footsteps. As he continues to explore new opportunities and push for greater change, there’s no doubt that Yeun will remain a vital and influential voice in Hollywood for years to come.