By Andrew Cristi
Photos Taken At The Huntley Hotel
1111 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90403
310.394.5454
Photos by Diana Ragland
Assisted by Kim Kelly
Grooming by Helen Robertson for Celestine Agency using Leonor Greyl, Paris and Emma Hardie
Styling by Andrew Cristi
Assisted by Carlos Leon & Annemarie Nava
Story by Andrew Cristi
After nearly a hundred years of talking motion picture, Hollywood is finally getting the point that Asian representation matters- and with his unique and groundbreaking character, Victor Tan, “S.W.A.T” actor David Lim is perfect proof of how a TV show can get it right.
With a superhero like physique and chiseled features of a statue, the handsome actor is giving women everywhere someone to swoon over, and proving to youths that Asian-Americans are just as capable of saving the day. Having grown up himself without many actors or characters in the media that looked like him, Lim is proud to be a part of a movement that shows the younger generation that they too can be seen as worthy prominent heroes, and that they should never be reduced to simply playing the nerd, or the old, wise, sage martial arts master. Fully-fleshed out, three dimensional, and always veering from stereotypes and generalizations, the gifted actor’s “S.W.A.T” character has varying levels that show true human complexity- all of which Lim plays sublimely.
And this season, as the CBS hit rages on in its sophomore year and explores the peripheral characters a bit more, the rising star is most excited to show off some of Victor’s back story. While the talented performer spent his youth looking up to action stars like Harrison Ford while dreaming to be a part of an action project himself, he loves the phenomenal stunts and dynamic special effects his show possesses, but as an actor who appreciates a compelling story, he is glad to dive in to how his character became a S.W.A.T. agent. Lim profusely praises the writers for not only taking the time to flesh out the entire very large cast, but also their dedication toward accurately showcasing an Asian-America without cliché or offense.
But, when it comes to accurate depictions, the “S.W.A.T” writers are pros, not only making sure to perfectly present their diverse cast of characters, but, also to make sure the action and story are align with what really happens in the field. So devoted to getting it right, the CBS series even has real S.W.A.T. agents on set at all times as advisers- and again, the humble Lim couldn’t be more full of appreciation and gratitude to the true heroes who help make their show the success it is.
With the sophomore season of “S.W.A.T” even better than the first, and Lim’s career taking off like a rocket-ship, Wingman sat down with the actor to talk all about his hot show, his great role, and why he’s proud to be part of the strong movement sweeping Tinsel Town that showcases the importance of Asian-Americans in media. Read on to see what he had to say!
WINGMAN MAGAZINE: Talk to us about season two of “S.W.A.T.” How has it changed from season one?
DAVID LIM: Season two really picked up where we left off in season one, and season two has really been even bigger, badder, better, and more filled with excitement- it’s been a lot of fun. We tackled an earthquake in Los Angeles- and I thought that was a really cool storyline. And while we’ve really tackled a lot more and elaborate action, we also really delve more into the characters and flesh them out, including my character Victor, and I’m pretty excited about that. We’ve really seen more of Victor Tan’s back story, and learned about his Asian American heritage, and that’s interesting for me.
WINGMAN: It’s great that you’ve brought so much attention and visibility to the Asian-American community- and that, sadly, is just starting to happen in Hollywood.
LIM: I’m really proud to help bring that to light and be a part of that movement. Representation matters. I remember when I was growing up, I didn’t really have many Asian-American actors or role models to look up to. So, I feel very privileged to help give that to the next generation. “S.W.A.T” definitely feels a responsibility to do that character justice- and I’ve really been given a beautiful platform to showcase this Asian-American character as a total badass. I have a lot of conversations with the writers, and they are really wonderful and careful with the way Victor is portrayed- and I’m really happy about that.
WINGMAN: “S.W.A.T” is also really attentive to detail regarding the accuracy of the action, and you also have a lot of real S.W.A.T. members as advisors. How do you research for the role?
LIM: Of course, there are the normal ways- the internet; if you don’t know something, then look it up. Since we have the real S.W.A.T. officers there every day, I am given a wealth of knowledge right there. We take them very seriously, and we always ask them questions. These guys have been around and done the job for a long time, and it gives it true insider perspective. I am in such a good position that I can always pick their brains, and their doors are always open.
WINGMAN: You also have a great cast here; Alex Russell, Kenny Johnson, Jay Harrington, Lou Ferrigno Jr., and of course, Shemar Moore, as well as Peter Facinelli, and Sherilyn Fenn. You’ve been given great people to work with, and all get to be part of a wonderful family with CBS.
LIM: Not to mention the amazing creators Shawn Ryan and Aaron Rahsaan Thomas. From the beginning this job was just so attractive because of all the great talent that I got to be surrounded by. Working with this group, the crew, and the writers- it’s all been an absolute dream. From our first table read and meeting- really, right from the get-go, we all just got along. Shemar really sets the tone and creates a great environment. It’s not just his work-ethic, but he’s also just so eager on set, and he’s really a nice and fun guy.
WINGMAN: You were also on “Quantico.” Do you enjoy action, or are you looking to step outside the genre?
LIM: I love action- always have. I grew up idolizing actors like Tom Cruise, Denzel Washington, Brad Pitt, and Harrison Ford. I’ve always loved the genre and I have always wanted to be a part of a project that has a lot of action. Don’t get me wrong- I also love comedy and drama, and what matters way more than genre is the story and the character development. But, yes, action is a lot of fun, and for where I’m at, I really think it helps showcase what I want to bring to the table.
WINGMAN: Where would you like to see them take Victor next?
LIM: I really like the back story. I like that they’ve been delving into Victor’s family, and exploring where he came from. Again, I think it’s really important to show him growing up in Los Angeles, and show that Asian-American background and how my character didn’t go on to be a doctor or lawyer, but went on to become a S.W.A.T officer. And I like how they are doing that with all the characters. We have a big cast, but, it’s great that we get to explore all the characters.
With a fantastic large cast, “S.W.A.T” has the opportunity to tell many more stories for years to come- particularly with the magnetic Lim. Check out the hit show Thursdays at 10/9C on CBS.
Mike McCarthy