They Call Us Bruce - Episode 78: They Call Us Manny Jacinto

Jeff Yang and Phil Yu present an unfiltered conversation about what's happening in Asian America.



What's up, podcast listeners? We've got another episode of our podcast They Call Us Bruce. (Almost) each week, my good friend, writer/columnist Jeff Yang and I host an unfiltered conversation about what's happening in Asian America, with a strong focus on media, entertainment and popular culture.

On this episode, we welcome actor Manny Jacinto, best known for playing Jason Mendoza on NBC's The Good Place. We talk about his stereotype-busting breakthrough role, the unmatched work ethic of Tom Cruise, and what it's like to play the dumbest character on television.

Manny Jacinto joins the 'Top Gun' sequel

'The Good Place' star will play a pilot in 'Top Gun: Maverick'



He, too, has got the need for speed. Manny Jacinto, who plays the lovably not-so-bright Jason Mendoza on NBC's afterlife comedy The Good Place, has been cast in Top Gun: Maverick, as a pilot.

'Top Gun: Maverick' Taps 'The Good Place's Manny Jacinto For Pilot Duty

If you didn't know, yes, they are making a follow-up to 1986's Top Gun. Crank up the Kenny Loggins.

There aren't a lot of plot details about the long-awaited sequel, but Tom Cruise is apparently reprising his iconic role as Maverick Mitchell, now a Top Gun flight instructor serving as mentor to a new crop of elite fighter pilots.