'Shang-Chi' star Awkwafina says 'it feels momentous' to be part of 1st Asian superhero film

"I was searching for Shang-Chi when I was growing up," the actress said.

August 31, 2021, 9:48 AM

Awkwafina stepped on to the set of Marvel's "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" and tackled a handful of firsts.

In addition to trying her hand at archery, learning how to drive -- and even drift -- the actress told "Good Morning America" that being a part of the first Asian superhero film "feels momentous."

"I think it's been a long time coming and I think that I was searching for Shang-Chi for a long time when I was growing up," she said. "It's an important movie and it'll just add to this larger collection of what we know as representation in Hollywood."

The actress, who has become well known for her comedic timing in other roles, shared a glimpse of her humorous side as Katy in a clip alongside Shang-Chi star Simu Liu.

"I didn't do any stunts really for this movie, not like at the level Simu was doing, but one thing that I did do was I fell backwards on a pole and I'd come every day to set and be like, 'hey guys, check out my pole work,'" the actress recalled. "And by the third day no one laughed."

As for her stunt driving, Awkwafina revealed, "I'm a very aggressive driver -- it was very fun, I loved it."

In addition to her upcoming role on the big screen, the "Nora from Queens" star said she's "so proud" of the hit TV show that is on the cusp of its second season release.

Marvel Studios is owned by Disney, the parent company of ABC News and "Good Morning America."

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