UTA and Gold House Celebrate AAPI Awards Season Nominees at Beverly Hills Dinner

Hollywood Reporter

by Kirsten Chuba

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

UTA and Gold House brought together a star-studded lineup of Asian American entertainers and industry leaders for an intimate dinner celebrating AAPI nominees during awards season. Held at the 88 Club in Beverly Hills, the event was sponsored by *The Hollywood Reporter* and featured notable attendees like "KPop Demon Hunters" creator Maggie Kang, "No Other Choice" star Lee Byung-hun, and musician Anderson .Paak. The gathering highlighted the growing influence of Asian voices in Hollywood, with UTA partner David Park emphasizing the importance of community and representation in a historically underrepresented industry. The evening began with David Park reflecting on his 30-year journey at UTA, recalling how few Asians were present in the entertainment industry when he first started. He praised the progress made over the years, noting that the room could easily be filled three times with Asian talent living in Los Angeles alone. This sentiment was echoed by Gold House co-founder Bing Chen, who highlighted the need for collaboration and resilience in overcoming challenges like media consolidation and rapid technological changes. Drawing parallels to the 2008 financial crisis, Chen argued that past struggles had led to significant breakthroughs, such as the rise of Marvel films, Ryan Coogler's career, and the global success of South Korean content. The event also served as a reminder of the importance of community support, especially in light of recent burnout and setbacks in the industry. Attendees were encouraged to cherish one another’s company and contributions, with Park urging guests to "enjoy each other’s community" as a way to strengthen their collective impact. The intimate setting allowed for meaningful connections, with attendees posing for photos donning custom red cowboy hats inspired by the Lunar New Year's Fire Horse theme. The Celebration of Asian Excellence in Entertainment not only celebrated individual achievements but also underscored the power of unity and collaboration among AAPI creators. By bringing together established stars and rising talents, the event reinforced the importance of representation and diversity in Hollywood. As the industry continues to navigate challenges, such gatherings serve as a reminder that progress is possible when communities come together to support one another.

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/20/2026