Chinese American actor Rich Ting will serve as the grand marshal of San Francisco’s Chinese New Year parade in 2023.
The 42-year-old was reared by an athletic family, was born in Torrance, California, and spent time growing up in both Southern and Northern California.
Not only did he focus on being an athlete growing up, but also trained to be a Hollywood actor just what he always dreamed of. He made this goal come true by appearing in several films and TV shows, including Chicago P.D., NCIS: Los Angeles, and Salt.
Succeeding Daniel Wu in leading the city’s Chinese New Year’s Year of The Rabbit parade, Rich stated “I am beyond words to express my gratitude for including me in such an iconic cultural celebration” in The San Francisco Standard.
The Chinatown exhibition will be celebrated for the first time since the pandemic with Harlan Wong serving as the parade’s director. Harlan Wong revealed that several rabbit sculptures will be placed throughout the city as part of the festivities and then sold at auction to benefit charities.
Michelle Yeoh, Jon Chu, and Mayor London Breed were hailed as grand marshals in prior years.
The Lunar New Year will be celebrated on January 22 at events hosted by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, although festivities will get underway at Chinatown’s Flower Market on January 14.
On February 3, the Miss Chinatown Pageant will take place the day before the parade.