Dr. Ken’s Albert Tsai Talks Comedy and Kung Fu [Exclusive Interview]

Albert Tsai is one of the hardest-working and most talented child actors on television today.

From his role as the lovable Bert in ABC’s Trophy Wife to his new multi-camera comedy Dr. Ken (also on ABC), Tsai brings charisma, comedic timing, and heart to his performances rarely seen in someone his age. I had the chance to talk to him about why he loves acting and his favorite things do when he’s not on set. I even learned some surprising things about what books are at the top of his reading list at the moment.

Tsai shared what he loves most about working in comedy, stating that he loves playing “different characters and experiencing different peoples’ lives,” as well as “making people laugh.” For Tsai, that’s what he considers to be the most enjoyable and rewarding part of acting. Currently, on Dr. Ken, Tsai also enjoys filming with Krista Marie Lu (Molly) and exploring the sibling dynamics of the series.

On how Tsai thought his character from Trophy Wife and his character from Dr. Ken would react to each other: “I think they would get along. They’re both funny,” Tsai said. “The writers [for Dave on Dr. Ken] are still experimenting with his personality, so it’s fun for me to play him because I like to see how Dave develops. I’m sure they would get along.”

Even though he spends a lot of time in front of the camera, acting isn’t the only thing that Albert Tsai is passionate about. When he’s not on set, he enjoys reading, swimming, horseback riding, and recently even began to take up kung fu!

Tsai also enjoys reading, and said he reads both fiction and non-fiction. “I like reading about history and geography and science books. Recently, I just read a history of the universe National Geographic magazine,” Tsai said. “For fiction, I’m reading […] the sequel series to Percy Jackson [and the Olympians].”

Not only is Albert Tsai young, talented, and well-read, though. He’s also devoted to his education while he works. When he has to spend the day on set shooting Dr. Ken, Tsai is required to do at least three hours of school a day. He takes classes online and has a tutor on set in order to accomplish this.

On days where he’s not on set? Tsai attends public school. Talk about a balancing act! And what is Tsai’s favorite subject to study in school, you might wonder? “History! I like European history,” Tsai said.

Balancing work and school doesn’t seem to worry or stress Tsai, though, who talks about his schedule with ease. As for what Tsai hopes his future might hold in terms of his acting career, he said he would love to continue doing comedy and making people laugh on a weekly basis, but he also would be open to doing something a bit different.

“Working with Jennifer Lawrence would be cool,” Tsai said. “Because I’d like to do some adventure stuff, like maybe some feature films […], a little more on the drama side.” He’d even get to put some of the skills he’s been learning on the side –– like kung fu –– to good use!

Albert Tsai may be young, but don’t underestimate him. He’s more articulate, passionate, and driven than a lot of people. In addition to acting, he manages to balance his academics and hobbies, while still having time to enjoy life and read historical books and magazines about the scientific complexities behind the beginning of the universe. As he continues to grow in his career, I have a feeling we will continue to see great things from Albert Tsai.

You can catch Albert Tsai as Dave on Dr. Ken, Fridays at 8:30/7:30c on ABC!