Banig Roberto's son turns heads as Young Zuko in Netflix's 'Avatar: The Last Airbender'

July 15 ------ Josephine "Banig" Roberto once made Filipinos proud with her singing career. Now, it's her son who is earning global attention.

Filipino-Taiwanese child actor Jordan Roberto Chien, the son of the "International Star Search" champion, has been winning praise for portraying Young Zuko in the second season of Netflix's hit live-action series "Avatar: The Last Airbender."

Jordan appears in the second episode, "A Fight, Once Begun," where he plays the younger version of Prince Zuko. Following the season's release, Jordan shared his excitement on Instagram, describing the opportunity as a dream come true.

"I can't even begin to tell you how incredible this journey was for me to be able to play Young Zuko. From the very first audition, to the callbacks, to the director's session and the nerve-racking anticipation... but to finally receive the news that afternoon from my agent, it was hands-down one of the best days of my life," he wrote. "A dream come true is an understatement."

His proud mother also reflected on the milestone, saying the experience was something their family would always cherish. "My excitement level is beyond words right now! This experience for Jordan, my whole family and me as a mom is something we will forever cherish! To be a part of the 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' franchise was never in our wildest dreams," Banig wrote. "Seeing Jordan on TV playing Young Zuko felt so incredible; it gave us all goosies! Such a proud moment for me."

Jordan's casting also adds to the growing Filipino representation in "Avatar: The Last Airbender," a franchise that appears eager to highlight Filipino artistry and talent on a global stage. The Netflix adaptation has featured several Filipino and Filipino-descended performers across its cast.

Acclaimed Filipino actress Dolly de Leon joins the second season as Fire Nation advisers Lo and Li, while Filipino-American actor Joel de la Fuente portrayed Fire Lord Ozai in the first season. Actor Ian Ousley, who plays Sokka, also has Filipino heritage through his mother.

With Jordan now joining the cast, the series continues to provide a major international platform for Filipino performers, bringing their stories and talents to audiences around the world. Filipino viewers quickly celebrated Jordan's appearance, praising his emotional performance and expressing pride over another Filipino making an impact in Hollywood.

Source: mb.com.ph