Overview
Anna May Wong became the first Asian American movie star, breaking barriers in Hollywood during a period of significant racial discrimination and restrictive laws. Her career challenged stereotypes, paved the way for minority actors, and left a legacy as a pioneering figure in entertainment.
Early Life and Barriers
- Born as Wong Liu Tsong in Los Angeles Chinatown in 1905.
- Faced anti-Chinese laws that barred citizenship and employment for Chinese workers.
- Experienced bullying at school due to her ethnicity.
Entry into Film
- Found escapism and inspiration in movies, aspiring to become a star.
- Began acting as an extra in "The Red Lantern" at age 14.
- Landed a lead role at 17 in one of the first Technicolor films.
Career Challenges and Achievements
- Typecast in Hollywood as an "exotic temptress" or villain, limiting her roles.
- Moved to Europe to escape stereotyping, starring in acclaimed film "Piccadilly".
- In the 1930s, featured in American movies portraying Chinese characters positively for the first time.
Later Career and Legacy
- Raised funds to support Chinese people affected by WWII.
- Made history as the first Asian American lead in a US television show, "The Gallery of Madame Liu-Tsong".
- Starred in over 50 films before dying of a heart attack at age 56.
- Remembered as a pioneer who fought racial injustice and opened doors for Asian American actors.
Continuing Issues
- The narrative closes by questioning how Hollywood still perpetuates stereotypes today.