Is the name Young Mazino the next big thing in Hollywood? The burgeoning career of Christopher Young Kim, known professionally as Young Mazino, suggests a resounding yes, with his star rapidly ascending through the ranks of critically acclaimed television and film.
Variety has learned that Mazino is the latest actor to join the cast of HBO's hit series, "The Last of Us." The actor is set to portray Jesse, a character described as a "pillar of his community" within the world of the show. This announcement comes at a pivotal moment for Mazino, who is fresh off the success of Netflix's "Beef," a role that catapulted him into the spotlight and garnered him an Emmy nomination in 2023. His journey, from a childhood in Montgomery County, Maryland, to the forefront of television, is a testament to his perseverance and talent.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Christopher Young Kim |
| Professionally Known As | Young Mazino |
| Date of Birth | August 27, 1991 (Some sources state this date; others list his birth year as 1992. His exact birthday is unknown.) |
| Place of Birth | Maryland, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Korean-American |
| Education | Sherwood High School (Graduate), Stella Adler Studio of Acting (Trained) |
| Known For | "Beef" (Netflix), "The Last of Us" (HBO) |
| Skills/Interests | Acting, Music (trained classically), Taekwondo (Black Belt) |
| Parents | South Korean Immigrants |
| Father's Profession | Computer Engineer (with multiple Master's degrees and a PhD in Theology) |
| Emmy Nomination | 2023, Best Supporting Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie for "Beef" |
| Reference Website | IMDb |
Born Christopher Young Kim, Mazino's upbringing in Montgomery County, Maryland, was shaped by his Korean immigrant parents, who instilled in him a strong work ethic and a respect for tradition. While his mother encouraged extracurricular music lessons, his other artistic interests were sometimes met with resistance. "I always felt like I was on the outside looking in," the actor has said, hinting at the challenges of navigating a creative path against the backdrop of a more conservative environment.
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The role of Paul Cho in Netflixs dark comedy, "Beef," proved to be Mazino's breakout moment. He played the aimless younger brother of Danny, portrayed by Steven Yeun, whose lives become intertwined with a stranger after a road rage incident. The series, a critical and commercial success, provided the perfect platform for Mazino to showcase his talent and charisma. The character Paul, initially presented as the "lost but lovable" younger brother, evolved into a complex figure, capturing the attention of audiences and critics alike. It wasn't just the acting that stood out; Mazino's physical transformation, adding to his already impressive screen presence, also contributed to the character's appeal.
The impact of "Beef" was immediate. Mazino's portrayal of Paul Cho earned him a Primetime Emmy Award nomination, solidifying his status as a rising star. Following the completion of the first season, he retreated to Spain, unaware of the transformative power his performance would hold. This time away provided a stark contrast to the whirlwind of newfound fame he would soon experience.
Before the success of "Beef," Mazino had been honing his craft for years. His journey into acting began during his childhood, where he explored film and theater. After exploring film and theater throughout his childhood and college years, he decided to fully commit to acting and moved to New York City in 2014 to pursue his passion. After working on indie shorts and student films, he attended the Stella Adler Studio of Acting in 2017, solidifying his formal training in theater. He is also a black belt in Taekwondo. These experiences gave him the necessary skills to transition from the relative anonymity of independent projects to the demanding world of professional acting.
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The news that Mazino would be joining "The Last of Us" was met with excitement from fans and industry insiders alike. The second season of the show is set to introduce the character of Jesse in Jackson, Wyoming community. Mazino's casting speaks to the shows commitment to representing a diverse cast, with Mazino bringing his Korean-American heritage and unique perspective to the role. For the actor, the role offers a chance to delve into a character in a post-apocalyptic world.
The actor told TheWrap he found Joel's death in the HBO adaptation exceptionally brutal to watch. "I understand the nature of revenge and losing someone dear to you."
Mazino's versatility is a key factor in his success. His ability to seamlessly transition between the comedic nuances of "Beef" and the dramatic weight of a role like Jesse in "The Last of Us" demonstrates his range. In the series Beef, Mazino's performance as Paul Cho earned him great fame. This ability to adapt and excel in different genres is what makes him such a compelling actor to watch.
His father, a computer engineer with five master's degrees in cybersecurity and computer systems, and a PhD in theology, is clearly an influence, yet Mazino has carved his own path, embracing his passion for the arts despite any initial hesitations. The support of his mother, who encouraged his musical pursuits, also played a crucial role in shaping his artistic development.
The actor's journey is a compelling narrative of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Dropping out of college to pursue acting underscores his commitment to his craft. It's a path he's clearly embraced, working his way through indie shorts and student films before attending the Stella Adler Studio of Acting.
In "Beef," the "relatively unknown" Mazino has proven he can hold his own alongside established actors like Steven Yeun and Ali Wong. His role as Paul Cho, the younger brother to Yeun's character, is a testament to his ability to captivate and connect with audiences. He has carved his own path, embracing his passion for the arts. The impact of his performance is undeniable, solidifying his status as a rising star.
Mazino's success is also a victory for representation in Hollywood. His Korean-American heritage and his nuanced portrayal of Paul Cho in "Beef" have resonated with viewers. His casting in "The Last of Us" further exemplifies the expanding diversity in the entertainment industry.
With "The Last of Us" poised to bring him an even wider audience, the future looks bright for Young Mazino. His story is still unfolding, but one thing is certain: he is an actor to watch. His talent, dedication, and the unique perspective he brings to his roles position him as a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry. From the streets of Maryland to the sets of HBO, Young Mazino is making his mark.
