There is a quiet strength in the way Karen Fukuhara moves through Hollywood. On Prime Video’s, The Boys, she brings that energy to Kimiko, a character who speaks without words but still says so much through every look and movement. In a world built on noise and spectacle, Fukuhara’s performance stands out for its restraint and emotion, showing both the toughness and tenderness inside the role. Off-screen, she carries the same grounded approach, speaking about her work with care and focus. As a Japanese American actor, she understands how important representation is, but her goal stays simple and clear: to tell stories that feel honest, human, and deeply felt.
Top – Avvenn @avvenn_official, Bottoms – Sculptor Worldwide @sculptor_worldwide, Shoes- Schutz @Schutzoficial
Lizzie Mansour: You’ve played such a wide range of roles. What’s the first thing that usually draws you to a character?
Karen Fukuhara: It always starts with the script. I’ve been lucky to work with incredible writers, especially on The Boys. When I first got the email about the project, I was immediately interested because Seth Rogen was attached. I grew up watching his films. But once I read the material, I was genuinely surprised. If you’ve seen the first episode, it felt completely different from anything we had been seeing in the superhero genre. From there, it also comes down to who is directing and who is shaping the project creatively. That combination makes a huge difference.
LM: What are your favorite kinds of roles to play?
KF: There is still so much I have not done yet, which is exciting. But I have really loved doing action. I have been lucky enough to work with some of the best stunt coordinators in the industry, and it has been incredibly rewarding to push myself physically and refine those skills. I have trained in sword fighting and Kali, and I am often in the gym continuing to build those muscles. It is challenging, but it is also a lot of fun.
Outfit- Stolen Stores @stolen.stores, Shoes – Elizée @elizeeshoes
LM: What does it mean to you to portray a character like Kimiko, who challenges traditional stereotypes often seen for Asian women on screen?
KF: Representation is incredibly important. We have made progress over the years, and there are more projects that support Asian actors and creators, but there is still more to do. For me, it is about expanding how people see us. Growing up, there were many limiting stereotypes, such as the book nerd, the science nerd, or the martial artist. Even when they are not entirely negative, they can still feel restrictive. Film and television are powerful because, for many people, that is their main exposure to cultures outside their own. Being part of something that broadens that perspective feels meaningful.
LM: Looking back on your journey with The Boys, what has been most meaningful about growing with Kimiko over the course of the series?
KF: I have loved playing Kimiko from the very beginning. I felt connected to her even during the audition, which surprised me because she is a mute character and very violent on the surface. Eric Kripke created such a layered backstory for her. She is not just a weapon. She has a deep emotional and vulnerable side, especially in her relationship with Frenchie, and I think that is what resonates with so many people. This season, she finally gets a voice, which feels symbolic of her growth. Over time, she has really come into her own in her independence and sense of purpose. I am really proud of her.
Outfit- Do Long @dolongofficial, Shoes- Alevi Milano @alevimilano, Jewelry – Za Zewelz @zazewelz
LM: What is an element of Kimiko that you love exploring, but you think audiences might not always notice?
KF: Because she does not speak, it can be easy to overlook how much she is expressing. She is always reacting, thinking, and feeling. She is not just standing there. I have learned to advocate for that in the process. Sometimes that means talking to the director and explaining what she is doing internally in a scene. Even without dialogue, she has a point of view and opinions. I have been lucky to work in a collaborative environment where that is supported.
LM: How has your cultural background influenced the way you approach your work and the kinds of stories you connect with?
KF: I am Japanese American, and my upbringing has shaped how I approach my work. My parents were not stereotypically strict. They encouraged me to work hard, but they never pushed me toward a specific career. My mom is a pianist, and my dad has had many different careers, so I grew up around creativity and flexibility. What they did emphasize was discipline. Preparation is very important to me. I love rehearsing and making sure I understand every aspect of a character, not just my lines, but how my character would respond in any moment. When you come prepared, it gives you the freedom to be present. The importance of hard work has stayed with me. It sounds simple, but it really is everything. Knowing your material inside and out makes a huge difference. On set, things can change quickly, and moments can become more spontaneous. Being prepared allows you to adapt without losing the character.
Tank top – Amazon Essentials, Shorts – Avvenn @avvenn_official, Boots- Giseli Dias @giselidias
LM: If you could swap places with any character you have played for a day, who would it be and why?
KF: Frenchie. He is one of the most fun characters, especially if you have read the comics. He is bizarre, funny, and unpredictable, and Tomer Capone brings so much to the role. I do not think I could do a better job than him, but it would definitely be fun to step into that energy for a day. He is always the one bringing humor and unexpected moments into a scene.
LM: How do you hope to continue using your platform to elevate more diverse voices and stories moving forward?
KF: Being in the public eye has been a learning experience. When I first started acting, I was focused on the work itself and did not fully think about everything that comes with it. Over time, I realized that being an Asian American actor also means being part of a larger conversation. At first, I struggled with that and questioned whether it was my place to speak. I have had mentors remind me that people are listening and that representation matters both on screen and in how we use our voices. I think about the actors I grew up watching and how much they meant to me. If I can do that for someone else, that is meaningful.
Outfit- Santi, Tights – Wolford @wolford, Shoes – Alevi Milano @alevimilano
LM: If you could leave one message with the world through your art, what would it be?
KF: There have been moments in the past few years when I have felt lonely, especially with how much this career can take you away from home. During those times, I turn to film and television. There is something powerful about seeing a character and feeling understood. It makes you feel less alone. If my work can do that for someone, even in a small way, that would mean everything to me.
PUBLISHER: Aleksandar Tomovic @alekandsteph
PHOTOGRAPHY: Dylan Perlot @dylanperlot
STYLING: Benjamin Holtrop @benjaminholtrop
MAKE UP: Sangwon Jeon @makeupsang
HAIR STYLIST: Barb Thompson @barbdoeshair
PR: Nicki Fioravente at Viewpoint PR @viewpoint.pr
ASSISTANT PRODUCER: Lizzie Mansour @lizzoooyo
PRODUCTION + LOCATION: @maisonpriveepr_la X
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