Answers with John Cho

Answer 1

In Selfie, you'll play Henry, a marketing expert who takes on the arduous task of teaching Eliza that being "friended" online isn't the same as having friends. What is Henry's main motivation for helping Eliza out?

I think it begins as an interesting project, re-branding a person. However, it turns into a genuine friendship.

Answer 2

Did you meet with George Takei, the original Sulu, after landing the role for inspiration?

Yes, we met for lunch. He was and continues to be so generous to me. He's a real pioneer.

Answer 3

Are you guilty of following the selfie fad in real life?

I would say no. I have certainly taken pictures of myself, but not a whole lot. Generally, I'm disappointed when I see pictures of myself, so I tend to keep them to a minimum.

Answer 4

Are you an avid social media user yourself?

I would say I'm moderate. I am on twitter. That's it. No Facebook. It's about as much as I can handle. Though I'm thinking about getting on Facebook only because it's almost mandatory.

Answer 5

You've had a very successful career in comedy, appearing in the American Pie franchise and starring as Harold in the Harold & Kumar movies. Do your friends and family think you're as funny as America does?

My friends think I'm funny, my family thinks I'm goofy.

Answer 6

Do you think Selfie will serve as a springboard for up-and-coming social apps to jump to the spotlight?

I suppose it could. I must say that the heart of the show has less to do with social media and more to do with the relationship between the two central characters - Henry and Eliza.

Answer 7

Time to spill! Who has been your favorite person to work with thus far in your career?

This is an impossible question to answer, so I'll say instead that Kal Penn and I share a very unique bond. Only he and I know what it's like to walk around as Harold and Kumar. No one else knows.

Answer 8

Why should people tune in to Selfie on ABC?

As I alluded to before, I think we have a very appealing pair of opposites in Henry and Eliza. I also think Karen Gillan, who plays Eliza, is an amazing actress that people in America should know, if they don't already from Dr. Who and Guardians of the Galaxy. Beyond that, I find the idea of climbing social strata to be of interest, and I think others will too. To what extent can we change ourselves and remain ourselves? Hopefully that's a good place to start a show.

Answer 9

What are your thoughts on this generation's obsession with online "likes" and "followers"?

Like anything else, I think one has to be watchful that your virtual life doesn't interfere with your real life. I believe that is one unofficial definition of addiction; that is, when one crosses the line, it starts to hinder your relationships at home and at work. I do believe a great many people meet that standard when it comes to their relationship with their mobile device. I know I am right at that line myself.

Answer 10

You also played the role of Hikaru Sulu in J.J. Abrams' Star Trek and Star Trek: Into Darkness. How did it feel when you first got the call?

I was in Florence, Italy, on my honeymoon when I got that call. There was some celebrating. There was some champagne.