In a recent exclusive conversation on the Stream Panther Podcast, hosted by producer Ajay Tambe, actor Rich Ting opened up about his gripping role as Jackie Ming in the upcoming Tulsa King Season 2.
Known for his intense screen presence and dedication to authenticity, he shared how a mix of real-world criminal history and professional ambition shaped his latest character—and why working alongside Sylvester Stallone turned out to be an unforgettable experience.
Jackie Ming’s Origins—Fact, Not Just Fiction
A Shocking Revelation
“When I first read the script, I was surprised,” he said. “I didn’t expect to be playing a character like Jackie Ming—an Asian gangster in Tulsa, Oklahoma. It felt unlikely… until I heard the real story behind it.”
That “real story” stems from the wave of Chinese nationals who began cultivating marijuana in California following its legalization. “Some were affiliated with gangs,” Ting explained. “They expanded into Sacramento, then moved east to Colorado, and finally settled in Tulsa.”
Crime That Caught the Feds’ Attention
According to Ting, what started under the radar turned violent in 2022 when internal gang conflict erupted. “There was a Chinese-on-Chinese conflict on a marijuana farm in Tulsa. That got the attention of local and federal officials,” Ting said. “It wasn’t a story—it was happening. That’s what our writers tapped into.”
Makers, the minds behind Tulsa King, built Jackie Ming around these true events, giving the series a realism often lacking in fictional crime shows.
Rich Ting on the Craft—Building Jackie Ming From the Ground Up
Research and Responsibility
Ting dove into extensive research to develop his portrayal. “Jackie Ming isn’t just a villain,” he said. “He’s a product of migration, economic desperation, and survival. Playing him meant understanding not just the violence, but the reasons behind it.”
He studied gang behavior, interviewed consultants, and immersed himself in the socio-political backdrop that drives Ming’s storyline. “It’s about giving depth to someone who could easily be written off as ‘the bad guy.’”
The Stallone Factor—Lessons from a Legend
Hustle, Heat, and Humility
When asked what it was like working with Sylvester Stallone, Rich didn’t hesitate. “The biggest thing I learned? We have no excuse.”
Stallone, who was 78 during filming, worked tirelessly on set. “He’s in top shape, sharp as ever, and wears so many hats—he edits, writes, directs, acts. He even shows up in a three-piece suit, shooting in 100-degree heat.”
Ting marveled at Stallone’s dedication, calling him a “one-man army” and saying his presence elevated everyone on set. “You don’t just see greatness—you feel it.”
Why Jackie Ming Might Be the Standout of Tulsa King Season 2
A Character Worth Watching
Unlike many crime series that blur into stereotypes, Tulsa King Season 2 is setting a higher bar—and Jackie Ming could be the breakout.
“Jackie isn’t a one-dimensional criminal,” Ting emphasized. “He’s part of a world built on opportunity and danger. That blend of truth and complexity makes this character so compelling.”
About Rich Ting
Rich Ting is a fourth-generation Asian American actor, born in Los Angeles, California. A former Yale football athlete and holder of dual J.D./M.B.A. degrees, Ting pivoted from academics to pursue his passion for acting. He is best known for his breakout role as ‘Bolo’ in the HBO Max series Warrior, inspired by Bruce Lee’s writings, and as ‘Captain Iijima’ in Amazon’s The Man in the High Castle.
Ting’s credits span across major network shows including F.B.I., NCIS: Los Angeles, Magnum P.I., Chicago P.D., and Supergirl. Internationally, he led roles in Korean dramas Iris, No Tears for the Dead, and Real. On the big screen, he’s appeared in Lone Survivor, Salt, G.I. Joe: Rise of Cobra, and The Green Hornet.
In 2024, Ting starred as ‘Jackie Ming’ opposite Sylvester Stallone in Tulsa King Season 2 on Paramount+, and voiced ‘Wong Tou’ in SEGA’s hit title Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. His recent credits also include The Old Man (FX/Hulu), Partner Track (Netflix), Hello Tomorrow (Apple TV+), and AZNBBGRL (Disney Freeform).
In 2025, Ting headlines Amazon Prime’s On Call as ‘Sgt. Tyson Koyama’ in the first streaming series from Wolf Entertainment. He also made his animation debut as ‘Habu Joji’ in Netflix’s The Summit of the Gods and has voiced numerous lead roles in global titles across Netflix, Hulu, and Disney platforms.
Based in Los Angeles with his wife and two Malteses, Ting remains active in martial arts, travel, and culinary exploration.
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