While promoting HBO Max’s Velma at New York Comic Con Thursday, star and EP Mindy Kaling admitted that she was surprised by the social media reaction to her decision to make the beloved character a South Asian girl. “I think of the characters in this are iconic but in no way …are they defined by their whiteness,” Kaling told the crowd. “Most Indian American [women], when they see skeptical, hardworking under-appreciated characters, they can identify with her.
The vast majority are ready for it. This show is for them.” “Growing up I identified with Velma,” continued Kaling. “She was so cute but not traditionally hot ..
with a questionable haircut. I feel so honored I get to do the voice … she’s a truth teller, cutting through the bullshit of life.
When you are smart and under-appreciated. I hope people appreciate that.” Velma will tell the origin story of the Scooby-Doo crew, with all the players — including Daphne (Constance Wu), Shaggy (Sam Richardson) and Fred (Glenn Howerton) as teenage students.
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