Brenda Song Shares the Sweet Way She and Macaulay Culkin Pass Her Asian Heritage on to Their 2 Kids (Exclusive)

Brenda Song and Macaulay Culkin’s Efforts to Pass On Asian Heritage to Their Kids (Exclusive)

Brenda Song, known for her roles in various TV shows and movies, is not just a talented actress but also a proud advocate for her Asian heritage. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Song shares how she is ensuring that her two children with partner Macaulay Culkin embrace their Thai and Hmong roots.

Growing up in a close-knit community where language and culture were deeply valued, Song’s parents made it a priority to speak to her and her brother in Hmong at home. This upbringing instilled in her a strong sense of identity and connection to her heritage. Now, as a mother to Dakota, 4, and Carson, 2, Song is passing down these traditions to her own children.

Every night, Song’s children say ‘Good night’ and ‘I love you’ in both English and Hmong, a practice aimed at helping them understand and appreciate their multicultural background. With family members frequently present in their lives, including Song’s parents, cousins, and grandma, the kids are exposed to both sides of their heritage.

In addition to language, Song and Culkin involve their children in cultural activities by introducing them to traditional outfits and teaching Culkin basic Hmong. Song’s pride in her Thai and Hmong roots permeates every aspect of her life, with her family playing a central role in shaping their cultural upbringing.

Despite the challenges of working in Hollywood, Song has remained steadfast in her identity and has actively challenged Asian stereotypes in the industry. From her early days on Disney’s ‘The Suite Life of Zack & Cody’ to recent projects like Netflix’s ‘Running Point,’ Song has been a trailblazer for Asian representation on screen.

Reflecting on her experiences, Song encourages others to believe in themselves and their abilities, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and self-belief in pursuing one’s passions. As she continues to advocate for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry, Song’s journey serves as an inspiration to many aspiring actors.

In a competitive industry where representation matters, Song’s dedication to her heritage and her craft sets her apart as a role model for young talent. By sharing her story and advocating for authentic portrayals of Asian characters, she is paving the way for a more inclusive and diverse Hollywood landscape.

As Song and Culkin navigate parenthood and careers, their commitment to passing on their cultural heritage to their children serves as a powerful testament to the importance of embracing one’s roots. Through their actions and words, they are creating a legacy that celebrates diversity and unity within their family.

In conclusion, Brenda Song and Macaulay Culkin’s journey as parents navigating the complexities of raising multicultural children while balancing successful careers exemplifies the beauty of embracing one’s heritage and fostering a sense of cultural pride in the next generation.