Ross Butler

HILE TEEN DRAMAS HAVE BEEN A MAINSTAY OF HOLLYWOOD FOR generations, the latest entries are challenging familiar formulas. “I grew up in the nineties and teen dramas back then were completely different than teen dramas now,” says Ross Butler, who and the movies. “What people in middle America see represents culture for the rest of the world; it’s what international people see as America.” That exposure helps break down stereotypes. “All the white girls in middle America see that Asian guys can be seen as attractive.” Continuing to challenge perceptions, Butler will be part of the mostly Asian American cast of (Disney+, premiering March 5). “Disney really does take it to the forefront. They put their foot forward and really try and make a difference.” The impact of the roles Butler has taken on, he says, has inspired him “to take a stand creatively” and to “choose things that I think will have an impact or will lead culture.”