Crazy Sexy Asians

The popularity of the "Starring John Cho" memes highlight another of the many problems Hollywood has with casting - the assumption that worldwide audiences can only reliably relate to straight white male protagonists. From an interview in Salon magazine with up-and-coming actor Jake Choi, "Asian men in media are so de-sexualized and emasculated. Part of it is fear and racism. An Asian woman can be with a white man because that doesn't compromise white male sexuality and dominance and the perception of straight white male insecurity. Crazy Rich Asians (2018) aside, Asian men are mainly portrayed as emasculated. Even ads do a better job than films to portray sexy Asians.

When Jet Li and Aaliyah made Romeo Must Die (2000) they shot a kissing scene, but it was cut from the film. Now, wanting to be objectified might sound silly or superficial. But framing an up-and-coming actor as a swoon-worthy hunk is a major part of how Hollywood grooms leading men like Channing Tatum, Michael B. Jordan and Chris Pratt.

Which of these swoon-worthy Asian actors do you think has the most "hot leading man" potential?

Discuss the list here

* actors must currently be between 20 and 40 years old