Exciting developments are unfolding in the realm of Avatar: The Last Airbender as one of its most cherished characters has been officially cast. Miya Cech will portray Toph, a prodigious earthbender born without sight, who has mastered the art of perceiving her environment through her other senses.
Executive producers Jabbar Raisani and Christine Boylan shared with Tudum that the search for Toph was extensive, with “thousands upon thousands” of auditions submitted. Yet, they instantly recognized Cech as the embodiment of Toph. “We review submissions independently, and after sifting through numerous tapes, we both had the same response… Miya is our Toph!” they elaborated. “Miya’s remarkable talent allows her to deftly navigate Toph’s sharp wit, stubbornness, and vulnerability. Her physical expressiveness and emotional range set her apart.”
Who is Toph?
Boylan and Raisani regard Toph as one of their favorite characters from the animated series. “Her hilariously abrasive energy is both complementary and antagonistic to the dynamics of the Gaang. We’re thrilled to see this interplay brought to life. Toph is clever, perceptive, and a master earthbender, yet beneath her exterior lies a depth of emotion we’re eager to explore.”
Who is Miya Cech?
Cech, whose full name is Miyako, has appeared in Beef, Young Rock, and The Santa Clauses, as well as the film You Are So Not Invited to My Bat Mitzvah. While she has portrayed characters with a similar dry humor and sarcasm to Toph, she emphasizes the uniqueness of this role, stating, “Toph is completely one-of-a-kind.”
For Cech, embodying Toph represents a chance to celebrate her heritage. “As someone of Chinese and Japanese American descent, I’m thrilled to portray Toph Beifong and honor my Chinese roots,” she remarked. “The show’s rich tapestry of Asian cultures is astounding. Though set in a fantasy realm, every culture feels authentically represented, reflecting its history and traditions. It’s extraordinary to collaborate with fellow actors who bring this diversity to life.”
As production for Season 2 kicks off, here are five intriguing insights about Cech, the newest addition to the Avatar family:
- Training for the Role: Cech has been diligently preparing for Toph’s character. “I’ve been in a training boot camp for about a week and a half, and while there’s still much to learn, it’s exhilarating. I have some martial arts experience and a fantastic instructor back in Northern California who helps keep me fit when I’m not on set. My background in dance has also proven invaluable in mastering Toph’s movements.” She will collaborate with a producer and consultant from the blindness community to ensure accurate representation.
- A Longtime Fan: Cech has been a devoted admirer of the animated series since childhood. “I’ve watched it through probably ten times. Toph was always my favorite character, so when the casting call went out, I urged my team to secure me an audition,” she shared, also praising the first season of the live-action adaptation. “I must admit, Gordon’s Aang moved me to tears multiple times. It feels surreal to now be part of this universe!”
- Unique Audition Journey: Cech’s audition experience differed slightly from some of her predecessors in Season 1, as she was aware she was auditioning for Toph. “I had two taped auditions, a taped callback, and two in-person auditions with the casting team, including a chemistry read with Gordon.”
- A Playful Surprise: True to the series’ tradition of surprises, Cech was taken aback upon learning she had secured the role. “Just a few days after my chemistry read, I was asked to participate in what I thought was a final Zoom callback with the stunt coordinator. Having never done a stunt callback, I prepped with my martial arts instructor the night before, only to find out it was a ruse. They called to tell me I got the part, and I was so shocked I ended up in tears.”
- Eager Anticipation for Toph’s Look: Cech is yet to see Toph’s complete costume. “I can’t wait to experience it for the first time! We’ve tested some designs for her iconic hairstyle, and even seeing my ‘Toph do’ felt surreal.”
With Cech stepping into the role of Toph, fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender are in for a thrilling new chapter.
