Michelle Yeoh has become an icon across much of the world over the past 40 years, and while some Americans are only just recognizing her talent, she has recently achieved a career high with a Best Actress Oscar nomination for her role in Everything Everywhere All at Once.
She reflects on her success over the past year, including her SAG Award win and potential Oscar win, and expresses gratitude for the increasing opportunities for actresses to break away from stereotypes. She becomes emotional as she talks about her surprise and gratitude for being given the opportunity to be recognized among so many other amazing actresses.
Despite having worked with many talented actresses who also deserve recognition, she is grateful for the chance to be seen and to sit at the table.
In an interview with People she said: “A lot of actresses find, as the numbers get bigger, the roles start to dwindle,” she says. “Over the last few years, I’m very proud that we have been breaking away from stereotypes, it’s not just lip service. It is happening. And it’s happening to me.”
Her voice stammers, and tears begin falling. “You go from shock to bewilderment,” she continues. ” ‘Wow, is it me? How can it be me?’ Because I’ve worked with so many amazing actresses who should have had this privilege, and so I am very grateful to be given the opportunity to sit at the table and to be seen.”
