Academy Award-winning director Chloé Zhao will executive produce Participant's upcoming limited series inspired by the tragic murder of Vincent Chin. Chin was murdered in his childhood hometown of Highland Park, Michigan, in 1982 by two disgruntled autoworkers who were frustrated with Japan's growing dominance in the automotive industry at the time (despite the fact that Chin himself was of Chinese descent). Chin's death is among the most significant events in modern Asian American history, serving quite literally as one of the textbook cases of anti-Asian violence within the United States.

Deadline reports that Participant has tapped Zhao to executive produce their limited series based on the infamous incident, which was first announced to be in development at the end of last year. Helen Zia, executor of Chin's estate and a member of the series' creative team, praises Zhao, saying that the director "has the vision and sensitivity to unpack the complexities of racism, hate, violence and injustice." A release window has yet to be confirmed at the time of writing.

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Although nearly four decades have elapsed since Chin's murder, the case unfortunately still remains relevant today. Social movements like Stop Asian Hate gained momentum over the past year in response to the spike of hate crimes committed against Asians and Asian Americans since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. TV shows and movies may not always directly influence social change, but they can certainly play a significant role in educating audiences while also humanizing distant historical figures. Chloé Zhao possesses one of the most distinctive voices in Hollywood today; hopefully, her talents will lend the limited series a sense of authenticity that will honor the legacy of Vincent Chin.

More: Why Chloe Zhao Is Credited As Eternals' Writer Twice

Source: Deadline