Ali Wong Asked to Voice Announcements on San Francisco’s Muni Buses
By Carl Samson
January 20, 2020
Shortly after Awkwafina’s voice began to take over conductor duties on New York City Subway’s No. 7 train, Ali Wong has been tapped to do the same on San Francisco’s Muni buses.
Responding to constituents on Thursday night, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) Chief Jeffrey Tumlin asked the 37-year-old comedian to consider recording an announcement or two for its hybrid and/or electric trolleybuses, part of a system that includes light rail vehicles, historic streetcars, and cable cars.
“Dear @aliwong,” Tumlin tagged the “Always Be My Maybe” star. “We at @sfmta_muni are your biggest fans. Would you consider stopping by our office to record a Muni bus announcement or two?”
Wong, who grew up in Pacific Heights — and was back in town to hang out with her family and to do shows at The Masonic over the holidays — has yet to respond to the invitation.
Wong appears to have a busy year ahead. She is working with Netflix for two new comedy specials following 2016’s “Baby Cobra” and 2018’s “Hard Knock Wife”, with one scheduled sometime this year and the other for a later date.
The streaming service, which bid against HBO, offered a deal “in the eight figures” for both specials, sources told the Hollywood Reporter. HBO, however, has also pursued the comedian for a scripted series at HBO Max.
Interestingly, another Asian San Francisco native has stepped up to do announcements for the Muni buses: BD Wong, who grew up in the Sunset District.
“OK, it’s true: @sfmta_muni bus announcements featuring the voice of @aliwong will undoubtedly improve the quality of life in #sanfrancisco,” wrote the 59-year-old actor, who plays Awkwafina’s father in “Nora From Queens.”
“But @jeffreytumlin I couldn’t be more JEALOUS. Do I hafta put on a dress to get my invitation?!”
To this, Tumlin replied: “OMG. We have an embarrassment of local Muni riding talent. Come join us! Wearing a dress is entirely up to you.”
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