Krista Marie Yu Interview

Krista Marie Yu stars in ABC’s new fall drama “Dr. Ken”, playing Ken Jeong’s (Dr. Ken) daughter ‘Molly’. She will next be seen in the feature films Love The Coopers opposite Amanda Seyfried and 6 Miranda Drive with Kevin Bacon. Krista hails from San Francisco.

How did you get started acting?

I’ve always loved musicals and singing and dancing. I was part of a song-and-dance youth group called Showbiz. We would sing and dance to different medleys, in which I especially loved bringing cheer to the Senior homes. That is when I started to realize what kind of positive impact performing has on people.

Did you go to acting school?

I did! I’ve always been encouraged by amazing teachers in my life to pursue my passion for acting, and was lucky enough to find myself training in the Drama program at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA.

What’s the best part of being an actress? And worst?

The best part of being an actress is being able to play make-believe and let your imagination explore!
The worst is being criticized for your imagination.

Any other family member is in the business?

My great-auntie Dorothy Toy is a professional ballet, tap, and jazz dancer that won the hearts of many as half of the dancing duo ‘Toy and Wing’, known as the Asian Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers of their time.

What inspired you to become an actress?

I grew up watching the classic musicals like Judy Garland in “Meet Me In St. Louis”, Natalie Wood in “Gypsy” and Chita Rivera in “West Side Story”. I truly loved them, and I love to sing and dance!

What has it been like to be part of ABC’s ”Dr. Ken” cast?

It has been a dream. The entire team, from the cast to crew, is beyond a joy to work with. We laugh a lot, and make working hard a great time.

What is the show about?

The show is about Dr. Ken Park, played by Ken Jeong, a clueless dad/husband battling the trials and tribulations of home life while also facing the everyday chaos of work as a doctor with terrible bedside manner.

And about your character Molly?

Molly is Ken and Allison’s 16 year-old daughter, who constantly is putting their parenting skills to a test. She is fun, fashionable, smart, and totally addicted to her phone.

How did you start on this show?

I auditioned 4 times! I started out super excited, but also super focused because I wanted to work as hard as I could to do a good job.

What has been your most memorable experience from the set?

Probably the first time we came out for the curtain call introductions for our first live audience show. I felt so invigorated and supported by the amazing energy of the audience and so lucky to be given the opportunity.

And how was working along Kevin Bacon in “6 Miranda Drive”?

So cool!! I love the movie Footloose, so I was really excited to meet him!

What is the film and your role about?

The film is super scary! I had to sleep with the lights on after reading the script. I play Tasha, a friend of Stephanie Taylor (Kevin Bacon’s character’s daughter), who isn’t a great influence.

What are your other hobbies and interests?

I love ballet. I also love to sing, bake, and cook. Also I love to arrange flowers.

What do you do in your free time?

I enjoy hanging out with my cousins and friends. I really like going to art fairs!

What do you like to watch on tv?

Right now, I’m really enjoying all the Christmas and Holiday Specials. They really warm my heart. Generally, on TV I love Modern Family, Blackish, and Nashville!

3 things you can’t leave your house without?

Oooo that’s a tough one… bottle of water, chapstick and my cell phone.

What music do you like?

Country, pop, musicals, and songs about love.

Any future plans you want to share with us?

I would really like to master the art of baking brownies from scratch. For some reason I can never get them right!

Who you would love to work with?

I would love to be in a Wes Anderson movie. I’m always so captivated by his films and his style.

Who is your favorite Actor/Actress and why?

I look up to many different actors and actresses. It’s very hard to pick a favorite, but one I really look up to is Suzy Nakamura, who plays my mom on Dr. Ken. She is an incredibly natural and versatile actress, while at the same time such a kind and smart woman. I aspire to be just like her.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years from now?

I see myself a stronger and more experienced actor in 5 years. I’m really looking forward to the journey ahead!

How important is Social Media for you?

I think social media is a great place for people to express themselves and share a piece of their lives.

Where we can follow you?

@kristamarieyu on twitter and instagram!

Quote: Surround yourself with people who lift you to fly.

Food: Homemade pasta from Osteria Mamma!

Movie: Spirited Away

Sport Team: Boston Red Sox

Song: Shine Your Way from the Croods, by Owl City and Yuna

Thank you so much Naluda Magazine! 😉