Krista Marie Yu has guest starred on hit shows such as AGENT CARTER and PARENTHOOD. Now she has landed a lead role on ABC’s DR. KEN playing Molly, the daughter of Ken Jeong‘s character. In an exclusive interview, the actress discusses her experience working with Ken Jeong and filming the show.
What made you want to be a part of DR. KEN?
Krista Marie Yu: Ever since the audition, I wanted to be a part of DR. KEN. It was evident it was a special project because of the energy and inner-fire Ken and the producers were investing in the auditions alone. The character of Molly is personally special to me because she represents an Asian-American teen girl, something that we don’t see as often on television.
Did you feel a bit nervous about portraying a character that’s based around one or both of Ken’s daughters?
Actually, Ken’s twin daughters, Alexa and Zoe, are both way sweeter and much more well-behaved than Molly. They are also much younger. Ken and his wife, Tran, are both incredibly supportive and loving of them both.
What have been some of your most memorable moments so far from filming?
The live show nights are always so memorable. To see Ken come alive in front of the audience is so exhilarating. The supporting audience fuels and ignites an electric energy for the show. On extremely special occasions, Ken and comedian/creator Mike O’Connell will give a crazy and wild pre-show performance. Come see a live taping for free!
What has it been like working with Ken?
The most wonderful dream. Ken pours his heart into making the show the best it can be. I’m non-stop laughing, but also non-stop learning, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity.
Are there any scenes or lines that you may have improvised?
Yes! We rehearse each episode for a week, in which there is opportunity to play and improvise to find a solid script for show night!
You’ve guest-starred on both comedic and dramatic series. What type of genre do you prefer to act in?
I think both are a lot of fun for different reasons. I definitely feel incredibly lucky to be on this show because it feels like a firsthand lesson in comedy working with Ken Jeong, Dave Foley, Suzy Nakamura, Tisha Campbell-Martin, Jonathan Slavin, and Kate Simses, whom are all comedic geniuses. Albert Tsai is a fantastic TV brother as well. The whole cast and crew are really becoming a family that laughs and laughs and laughs all day long.
DR KEN airs 8:30PM on Fridays on ABC