Unveiling Warrior Stars' Season 3 Character Transformations & Intriguing Relationships

In 1870s San Francisco, against the backdrop of the Tong Wars, Warrior tells the story of Ah Sahm, a remarkable martial arts talent. Journeying to America to find his sister, he is instead forced into the powerful domain of Chinatown's most influential Tongs, thrusting him into a brewing conflict. Season 3 unfolds after the tumultuous race riots that struck Chinatown. Ah Sahm grapples with his newfound status as a local legend, all while harboring secrets that jeopardize his position within the Tong.

Warrior originates from an idea conceived by the legendary Bruce Lee, and his daughter Shannon Lee brings it to life as an executive producer alongside creator Jonathan Trooper. Evan Endicott, Josh Stoddard, and Justin Lin also serve as executive producers. The stellar cast of Warrior includes Andrew Koji, Olivia Cheng, Jason Tobin, Dianne Doan, Kieran Bew, Dean Jagger, Hoon Lee, and Joanna Vanderham.

Warrior Season 3: Exciting Insights from Dianne Doan, Olivia Cheng, and Hoon Lee

Dianne Doan, Olivia Cheng & Hoon Lee on Warrior Season 3

Mark your calendars for June 29th because the best show on television is making its triumphant return on Max. And trust me, when I say it comes straight from the heart. Prepare yourself for some mind-blowing action that seamlessly complements the brilliant writing. One aspect that truly captivates me is the empowering portrayal of strong female characters like Dianne and Olivia. Speaking of Dianne, her character, Mai Ling, dropped an absolute bombshell last season. She shocked Young Jun by revealing that not only is she related to him, but also to Ah Sahm, as they are brother and sister. I'm dying to know how Mai Ling and Ah Sahm's relationship will evolve in this upcoming season.

Dianne Doan: It seems that the intention behind it was to provoke Young Jun and challenge his position of power. Throughout the season, Mai Ling continues to hope that Ah Sahm will see the truth and join the Long Z. Similar to the previous seasons, the two characters have their own separate journeys. I won't reveal any spoilers, but I do think that something significant happens in the end.

Hoon Lee: Speaking of which, should we avoid including spoilers?

Dianne Doan: The audience will be... Yeah, hopefully-

Hoon Lee: Confused.

Dianne Doan: Not confused, but yeah, there is a-

Hoon Lee: Angry.

Dianne Doan: Possible happy ending.

Olivia, in season 2, we witness Ah Toy's evolving relationship with Nellie, which becomes more prominent. Does Ah Toy perceive Nellie as a means to escape Chinatown and finally have an opportunity to leave behind her violent past?

Olivia Cheng believes that Nellie offers her a glimpse into the possibility of achieving her American dream. Nellie provides hope, peace, and an opportunity for Ah Toy to escape the violence of Chinatown. However, as season three unfolds, Ah Toy questions whether her dream can truly become a reality considering the time period and the world she lives in. The season explores her journey and how she bounces back when her hope is shattered.

Chao, another character in the show, is skilled in gathering information about everyone. In season three, Chao forms an unexpected alliance with Richard Lee. Without revealing too much, their journey throughout the season is noteworthy and deserves attention.

Playing Chao brings me great joy because he interacts with a wide range of people. One of the aspects I love the most about playing this character is the opportunity to work with a cast that I deeply respect and care for. Tom, who portrays Lee, is actually one of my closest friends among the cast. It's a unique dynamic because from the beginning of the series, they are portrayed as opposites in many ways. Lee is seen as inexperienced and idealistic, while Chao is cynical and jaded.

However, due to certain events in the plot, they are brought together and forced to confront each other's perspectives. Being paired up, they have to question the validity of their own worldviews. In a similar fashion to the impact he has on Bill, Lee unintentionally sparks something in Chao by leading with his heart. He reminds Chao of his forgotten morality and what he believes is the right course of action in a situation beyond their control.

I love that you said that, because we do see that a lot with Officer Bill and kind of his morality.

Hoon Lee: That's right.

It's almost like a form of redemption art. Dianne, I'd like to delve into Mark Dacascos' involvement in this season and discuss its impact on Mai Ling and her relationship with Li Yong.

Dianne Doan expresses her admiration for Mark and Dustin Nguyen's involvement in the show. Growing up watching Mark, she considers him an exceptional individual. He possesses kindness, a passion for art, and unwavering support as both an actor and person. However, in terms of his character and the present question, Dianne believes he poses a significant threat to Mai Ling. She envisions a power struggle where Li Yong is caught in the middle. Will Mark's character influence Li Yong's perception of Mai Ling and disrupt their relationship, love, and trust? Ultimately, Dianne anticipates Mai Ling having the upper hand.

In season three, Olivia and Dianne shared a compelling scene where Ah Toy, in a vulnerable state during the riot, sought refuge in the brothel while Mai Ling was looking for shelter. Can you shed some light on their dynamic in the upcoming season? Will they be together in season 3?

Olivia Cheng: Without giving away any spoilers, one scene from this season stands out as a personal favorite. Although I may have inadvertently spoiled it already, there is another significant interaction. It was an absolute pleasure to film this scene, as it showcases the development and growth since we last saw these characters in season two. There is a mutual respect between them, perhaps not quite reaching the level of friendship, wouldn't you agree, Dianne? It may not be a full-fledged friendship, but their shared understanding is as close as it gets, considering their complicated history and their connection to Ah Sahm, the rival tongs, and the world of Chinatown.

I'm curious about something, Hoon. In the previous season, Chao made the difficult decision to give up his daughter, Hannah. I'm wondering how much this weighs on him and how it impacts him in season 3.

Hoon Lee: In my opinion, Chao is someone who excels at compartmentalizing his life. He has had to adapt and transform himself numerous times in order to not only survive but also thrive. However, I must clarify that Jonathan, Evan, and Josh have the final say in defining the character. As an actor, I bring the character to life based on their guidance.

About Warrior Season 3

I don't believe that it has any significant impact on him in a practical or tactical sense. However, there is a noticeable aspect of his character that is emerging, and that is the necessity for him to face his own humanity, which is frequently contrasted with his more profit-driven inclinations.

As the race riots subside, the animosity between the Irish and Chinese communities escalates, coupled with the introduction of discriminatory legislations specifically aimed at the Chinese population. Within Chinatown, Ah Sahm gains legendary status, depicted in a striking portrait. Nonetheless, he grapples with the conflicting identities of being the hero his people expect and the gangster he inherently is.

Check out our other Warrior season 3 interviews:

Andrew Koji & Jason Tobin

Josh Stoddard & Evan Endicott

Jonathan Trooper & Shannon Lee

Warrior season 3 debuts on Max June 29.