A forthcoming CBS legal drama titled 'Cupertino,' set in the heart of Silicon Valley, is facing criticism for its apparent lack of Asian American representation in a recently released trailer. The show, scheduled to premiere on October 8, has drawn backlash from social media users who argue the cast does not reflect the demographic reality of the city.
The trailer features Mike Colter and Rachel Keller as protagonist lawyers, and appears to show only one actor of Asian descent. This representation stands in contrast to U.S. Census data, which indicates that approximately 70% of Cupertino's population identifies as Asian.
'Cupertino' is named after the California city that serves as a major hub for the tech industry and is home to Apple's global headquarters. The series plot follows a lawyer who, after being dismissed from a Silicon Valley startup, partners with another recently fired lawyer to represent clients suing tech corporations.
Critics on platforms like Reddit and X have highlighted the perceived disconnect between the show's setting and its casting. One user on Reddit noted that no Silicon Valley law firm would feature an "all-white cast." Another commenter suggested that the show's creators may have overlooked basic demographic research, despite its significant budget and filming locations in and around New Jersey.
Comparisons were drawn to other shows, with one user stating, "Calling a show ‘Cupertino’ and having a cast not full of Asians is like calling a show ‘Compton’ and having a cast with few black people." Some observers found the casting choice amusing and predicted a short run for the series.
In addition to Colter and Keller, the series stars Ella Stiller and Nik Dodani. Dodani, who is of South Asian descent, appears to be the only main cast member with Asian heritage. The series is produced by Robert and Michelle King, with 12 episodes ordered for its first season.