Comedian Nigel Ng defends 'Uncle Roger' persona against 'yellowface' claims

Ng rejects accusations that his popular YouTube character promotes anti-Asian racism

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Malaysian comedian Nigel Ng has defended his popular 'Uncle Roger' character following criticism from American chef J Kenji López-Alt, who labeled the performance as 'yellowface' and claimed it 'promotes anti-Asian racism.' Ng rejected the idea that an accent is inherently a negative stereotype, arguing that his character has actually served to globalize Malaysian culture. However, López-Alt explained that his concerns are rooted in the specific experience of the Asian-American community, particularly the rise in anti-Asian violence during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why it matters

This debate highlights the ongoing discussion around cultural representation and appropriation, especially in the context of the Asian-American experience. It raises questions about the line between celebrating one's heritage and perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

The details

Ng uses an exaggerated Cantonese-inflected accent in his viral YouTube videos, which often critique Western chefs' attempts at Asian cuisine. López-Alt, an award-winning cookbook author, originally criticized the persona in 2021, stating that it 'promotes anti-Asian racism' and gives non-Asians a 'free pass' to mock Asian speech patterns. In response, Ng argued that his character has actually served to globalize Malaysian culture, pointing to the widespread adoption of his catchphrases like 'haiyaa' and 'fuiyoh.' He also noted that he feels no embarrassment regarding his background, comparing his work to other creators who find humor in their parents' accents.

  • Ng's 'Uncle Roger' character first gained popularity on YouTube in 2020.
  • López-Alt originally criticized the persona in 2021.
  • Ng released a video defending his character on February 8, 2026.

The players

Nigel Ng

A 34-year-old Malaysian comedian who created the popular 'Uncle Roger' character on YouTube.

J Kenji López-Alt

An award-winning American cookbook author and chef who has criticized Ng's 'Uncle Roger' persona as 'yellowface' and promoting anti-Asian racism.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Accent is not a stereotype. Accent is just how we talk and how we live. There's nothing wrong with having an accent.”

— Nigel Ng, Comedian (weareresonate.com)

“In that context, when I open up the comments to a video and see comments imitating your catchphrases or speech patterns, then see that the people doing it are virtually all non-Asian American men, it rubs me the wrong way.”

— J Kenji López-Alt, Chef (weareresonate.com)

What’s next

López-Alt has offered to collaborate with Ng on a video, provided they can discuss the 'nuances of this rather complicated issue' before sharing a meal together.

The takeaway

This debate highlights the ongoing challenges in navigating cultural representation and appropriation, especially for marginalized communities like Asian Americans who have faced increased discrimination. While Ng believes his character celebrates Malaysian culture, López-Alt's concerns reflect the real-world impacts of stereotyping and the need for nuanced discussions around these complex issues.