1051: Tu Lam | From Refugee to Real American Hero

Call of Duty

Tu Lam's involvement in the Call of Duty franchise is a testament to his expertise and influence. He worked closely with developers for two years, demonstrating his combat movements and techniques, which were meticulously captured and integrated into the game 1. This collaboration resulted in the creation of a character based on him, known as Ronin, who became a central figure in the game's narrative. Lam reflects on the global recognition this brought him, noting the surreal experience of meeting fans who have played as his character 2.

When I travel, it's crazy because they scan my character d to t. You know, it's really weird when people play my character for a long time to go to one of my classes or to meet me. They're just kind of taken back, you know, because it's so, so close, you know?

--- Tu Lam

   

Media Appearances

Transitioning from military life to media roles presented unique challenges for Tu Lam. He describes the intense experience of motion capture for Call of Duty, where he had to perform combat movements in a high-tech suit with sensors 3. This process was physically demanding and required him to adapt his skills to a new medium. Lam also shares his initial anxieties about public appearances and the pressure of being in the spotlight, which contrasted sharply with his secretive military background 4.

The monster was about survival. It was about war. It was about this. But then I was thrown at Hollywood, and it would. I had 15 cameras on me, and I had to be this, right?

--- Tu Lam