Rich Ting’s career is the epitome of perseverance and opportunity.
With roles that spanned continents and genres, Din not only captured audiences’ attention but cemented his place in one of Hollywood’s most iconic universes.
His latest role as Sergeant Tyson Koyama in On Call marks another milestone in his career of versatility and authenticity.
From stunts to acting: Ding Junhui’s journey
Rich Ting entered Hollywood through the action-packed world of stunts, and his career path was influenced by his cousin, John Koyama.
Din initially returned to Los Angeles to pursue a legal career and found himself at a crossroads when his cousin offered him a chance to work on a Warner Bros. production. “I had just accepted an offer from a company,” Ding recalls, “but the partner encouraged me to go for it. That’s how it all started.
For Ding, transitioning into stunts was more than just a job; This is an education.
“I spent the first two years of my career doing stunts, being a sponge on the set, learning set etiquette, learning how directors, writers, actors, and crew work together, and those are experiences I was really lucky to have. .
He believes the experience provided insights that couldn’t be taught in acting classes. “You can go to a good school like Yale and major in theater and theater, but you’ll never get live experience,” Ding said.
This foundation not only honed his skills, but also instilled a deep respect for the craft. “Stunt work is menial and demanding,” Ding explains. “You are the first one to arrive on the set and the last one to leave, and you are responsible for all actions. You have a responsibility to take care of everyone on the set, including the crew.
Din retained the lessons of discipline and hard work that set the tone for everything he did thereafter.
The meaning of On-Call
In “On Call,” Ting plays Sergeant Tyson Koyama, a name with deep personal meaning. Series executive Tim Walsh gave Ding the rare honor of choosing the name for his character.
Ding’s mother’s maiden name was Hill, and it was his cousin, John Hill, who got him started in stunts. Choosing a name that reflected the role they played in his success touched his heart.
“It’s so touching, there are no words to describe it, because I’m in this industry because of him. I’m in this industry because of my mom who’s been supportive, very supportive, and my dad.
The show is set in Long Beach, California, and focuses on the city’s diverse communities, particularly Japanese Americans and Cambodians. “I grew up in the South Bay, and Long Beach was in my backyard, but no one knew it,” Ding points out.
Din thanked Walsh and Elliott Wolfe for “putting Long Beach on the world map for the first time.” Ding’s portrayal not only honors his heritage, but also reflects the production’s commitment to authenticity and representation.
The decision to allow Din to choose his character’s name is just one example of careful design by the creators. “I am extremely grateful and proud to be able to represent my family, but more importantly, perform under the umbrella of Dick Wolf.”
Creating realism in a police drama
Unlike traditional police procedurals, “On Call” immerses viewers in the life of a police officer through fast-paced 30-minute episodes.
Ding emphasizes the meticulousness of storytelling. “We’re not going to waste a minute showing random scenes or any wasted dialogue. Everything has a purpose,” he said, making it a visceral experience.
To prepare for the role, Ting participated in a ride-along with the Long Beach Police Department, noting that it was just as intense as it looked on screen.
“It’s life-threatening,” he said, describing how the show uses body cameras, stabilized cameras and other techniques to create a documentary-like feel and capture the experience. “We wanted the audience to feel like they were in the front seat of a police car,” Ding explains.
The show also breaks with convention, focusing less on life in the precinct and more on the streets.
“We’re always on the road,” Ding said, promising that the show will leave viewers breathless but also give them time to breathe. “It’s not a lot,” he laughed.
Like executive producer, director and co-star Eriq La Salle, Din emphasized that On Call is a character-driven show that puts police officers in the driver’s seat, rather than moralizing on behalf of the audience. It demonstrates the personal and professional qualities of an officer.
“We wanted to show that they were forced into certain situations where they had to react. We wanted to force that issue on the audience,” Ding explains. “If you were a police officer, would you do the same thing? How would you react?
“We wanted it to really show that these are real people, just like us as viewers, with real problems and real jobs, and it’s just that these police officers happen to risk their lives every second they’re on the clock and even off the clock. “
Rather than telling people what to think about policing, they invite them to share their experiences and form their own opinions in a 30-minute stimulus format.
Balancing Roles: From Drug Lord to Narcotics Law Enforcement
Ding Junhui’s versatility has been fully reflected in his recent roles.
In “The King of Tulsa,” he played the vicious drug lord Jackie Minh. The contrast with Sergeant Koyama in On Call highlights Ding’s range as an actor. “Only in Hollywood can you go from drug kingpin to narcotics squad,” he joked.
For Ting, who grew up idolizing Sylvester Stallone, starring in “The King of Tulsa” is a dream come true.
“Being next to Sly, I had to pinch myself a few times. Growing up, I was a fan of everything he did, from Rockies to Rambos to Demolition Man and now I stood next to this guy, reading lines, watching him control and direct a set.
“It’s surreal, to say the least, but that’s what I signed up for,” Ding shared.
Despite the character’s intense storyline and exciting ending, Dante is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of Taylor Sheridan’s universe.
Transitioning to On Call feels like a new beginning. From the costumes to the character’s clean demeanor, everything about Koyama represents a transformation. “I’m on the side of the law this time. What a cool way to end one thing and start a whole new one with my On Call family.
Din is grateful for fans old and new who watch his “Kings of Tulsa” show, but he has something to say to them. “I know it’s on Paramount+, but if you guys could switch to Prime right now and check out On Call, I’d really appreciate it,” he said with a laugh.
Rich Ting’s Place in the Iconic Universe
With roles in the productions of Taylor Sheridan and Dick Wolf, Din has cemented his place in two of television’s most influential storytelling empires.
Ding spent nearly two decades with his head down and focused on his work, and when he looked back and realized he was a part of these worlds, he was shocked.
Ding’s gratitude for these opportunities is palpable. “I’m very grateful. One of the things I actually have to do better is really take a moment and really understand what’s going on,” he said, visibly moved.
“And when you say I’m a part of Taylor Sheridan’s world and Dick Wolf’s world, it’s an incredible honor.”
What’s next for On Call?
As anticipation for the first season of On Call grows, discussions are already underway for a second season. While Ding couldn’t reveal specific details, his excitement was palpable.
“I heard a buzz,” he said. “Tim Walsh and I have a very close relationship. I’m really excited for the fans to watch the first season so we can show them the second season, and I’ll leave it at that.
Conclusion
Rich Ting’s journey is a testament to perseverance, resilience and gratitude. From his early days performing stunts to starring in two of television’s biggest universes, Din has proven his ability to captivate audiences and give depth to his characters.
With On Call, Ting not only honors his heritage but sets new standards for performance and storytelling.
With the premiere of “On Call,” one thing is clear: Rich Ting’s star is just starting to rise.
On Call is now available to stream on Prime Video.
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