Adele Lim

Adele Lim is a Malaysian-born screenwriter, director, and producer recognized as one of the first filmmakers of Malaysian descent to achieve success in Hollywood. Lim began her career as a script coordinator for the television series "Xena: Warrior Princess." She went on to write for series including "One Tree Hill," "Private Practice," and "Lethal Weapon," accumulating extensive experience in writers' rooms and production. Her background in television, spanning roles such as script coordinator, writer, executive story editor, co-producer, and executive producer, provided a versatile foundation for her work in the film industry.

Lim is best known as a co-writer of the film "Crazy Rich Asians," the first major Hollywood studio film in decades to feature a majority cast of Asian descent in a contemporary setting. The film grossed over $239 million worldwide and brought Asian-American narratives to mainstream audiences. Lim drew on her Malaysian heritage to bring authenticity to the story. When faced with pay disparity issues on the sequel, she declined to participate, prompting industry-wide discussions about equity for writers of color.

Lim was recruited by Disney to co-write the animated feature film "Raya and the Last Dragon," which introduced Disney's first Southeast Asian princess. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature Film, underscoring its critical and cultural significance. Lim made her directorial debut with "Joy Ride," which she also co-wrote and produced. The film is notable as the first studio comedy written and directed by Asian women that centers on Asian American women. "Joy Ride" received positive reviews for its humor, portrayal of Asian American female friendships, and blend of comedy with emotional depth.

Lim co-founded 100 Tigers Productions with producing partner Naia Cucukov-Richards, focusing on television and film projects that highlight cross-cultural stories with global appeal. She also mentors emerging writers through organizations such as the Writers Guild of America, Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment, and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to promote equity and representation in the entertainment industry. Through her work in screenwriting, directing, and producing, Lim has contributed to advancing authentic representation and diversity in Hollywood.