Steven J. Kung Adapt YA Novel Fake Dates and Mooncakes for TV

Steven J. Kung has signed on to write and executive produce a TV adaptation of Sher Lee’s YA novel Fake Dates and Mooncakes.

Developed by Kung and Gearshift Films, the half-hour romantic dramedy is being billed as a queer coming-of-age story about two teens of Chinese heritage, Dylan Tang and Theo Somers, who unexpectedly fall for each other while navigating identity, ambition, and belonging.

Kung’s writing credits include Dear White People and and he directed Fresh Off the Boat and his debut feature A Leading Man, which explored anti-Asian racism in the entertainment industry. He has also written for Netflix, Starz, Lionsgate, the Hallmark Channel and Warner Brothers Animation.

“Sher Lee conjured such a beautiful, immersive, and cozy world in her book – it’s the kind of world I want to live in. I’m writing this show to celebrate the resilience of immigrant communities and, of course, apotheosize delicious Chinese and Singaporean cuisine. For me, this is ultimately about an underdog coming into his power and using his talents to uplift his community,” Kung said in a statement.

The adaptation is expected to see Dylan and Theo move beyond high school into early adulthood to expand the series emotional and cultural scope inspired by the original novel. Borga Dorter, executive producer and co-founder of Gearshift Films, added in his own statement: “Fake Dates and Mooncakes has that rare mix of tenderness and humour, and celebrates first love, family, and cultural identity, while offering a safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ youth.”

Fake Dates and Mooncakes marks the debut novel by Singaporean author Lee, who added in her own statement: “So happy that Gearshift Films has a vision to adapt my joyful, heartfelt queer novel for television! My hope has always been that readers, and now viewers, can find a sense of comfort, belonging, and possibility in this world.”