Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

I HAVE seen Filipino-American artists’ struggle to get that evasive dream to fame, and only a chosen few have made it in Hollywood. Actor, model and singer Michael Copon is one of them.

Born in Virginia to a Filipino father (who is from Cavite) and a German-American mother, Michael Sowell Copon began his career appearing in commercials and print ads for popular clothing brands such as Old Navy, PacSun, Sketchers, Nike, Reebok, Gap and American Eagle. His first big step in acting was when he landed a role on the Fox Kids Network playing the Blue Power Ranger, Lucas, on the television series Power Rangers: Time Force.

"I realized that I wanted to be an actor when I was 17 years old," Michael shared in an interview with the Asian Journal. "I just wanted to make people laugh at first, which then turned into a career of acting."

And his career has taken off ever since.

Aside from being known as Power Ranger Blue, Michael is most notably recognized for his starring role as "Felix" on the hit television show, One Tree Hill. He has also made numerous guest appearances on popular programs such as CSI Miami, Scrubs, Reno 911, That’s So Raven, Even Stevens, and also co-starred in the original series Beyond the Break.

He also has been recently part of the CBS’ series remake of Hawaii 5-0, which he considers as one of his best work as an actor so far. "I think Hawaii 5-0 was one of my best performances without a doubt," said Michael and continued, "The cast of actors on that show is made up of top shelf talent, which brought the absolute best out of me. When I’m working with amazing actors such as Scott Caan and Alex O’Loughlin, it forces me to bring my A-game. They were incredible to work with!"

Aside from Hawaii 5-0, Michael said that his first leading role in the film The Scorpion King II: Rise of a Warrior was also a favorite because of the challenge to carry his character, "Mathayus."

In 2007 Michael starred in Bring it on: In It To Win it where he showed off some of his dancing skills as he played as a male cheerleader. He was also part of the remake of the 1988 classic horror film Night of the Demons in 2009.