From Malaysian Childhood to Hollywood Stardom
Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh has shared poignant insights about her traditional Asian upbringing and experiences with racism in the film industry during a recent podcast appearance. The 63-year-old Malaysian star appeared on Elizabeth Day's How To Fail podcast this Wednesday, reflecting on her remarkable career path and personal development.
The 'Seen and Not Heard' Childhood
Yeoh described growing up in Ipoh, Malaysia with parents who adhered to traditional values. "I feel that with Asian parents, especially moms, they try to have their children be seen and not heard," the actress revealed. She explained that girls were expected to behave demurely and avoid making loud noises or causing disturbances.
The Everything Everywhere All At Once star acknowledged that her mother had instilled these values deeply. "It took me a while to go to her and say, 'actually it's not true, we can speak our minds and we don't always have to agree with what everybody else is saying'," Yeoh shared, highlighting her journey toward finding her voice.
Confronting Racism in Hollywood
Yeoh didn't shy away from discussing the discrimination she has faced throughout her career. When asked directly about experiencing racism, she responded: "I would be lying if I say no." She noted that while overt racism has become less common due to her elevated position in the industry, subtle prejudice persists.
"Maybe five years ago even then you would face it, you'd see the people go like, 'what's an Asian person doing here?'" the actress recalled. She expressed deep concern about the ongoing violence against Asian communities, particularly referencing elderly women being physically attacked simply for walking down the street.
"I don't understand, to date why it's still happening," Yeoh stated with evident frustration. She sees hope in projects like the upcoming Wicked film, where she plays Madame Morrible, believing they can teach audiences that "it's beautiful to be different."
The actress identified judgmentalism as one of humanity's worst traits, advocating instead for "kindness and compassion" in a world desperately needing these qualities.
From Royal Academy to Red Carpet Controversy
Yeoh's journey to stardom began when she moved from Malaysia to London as a teenager to train at the Royal Academy of Dance. Her recent comments follow her appearance at the Wicked: For Good New York Premiere on Monday, where her fashion choice sparked mixed reactions online.
While some fans questioned her neon yellow tulle dress and cropped hair, calling it "grandma's toilet paper cover," Yeoh has consistently demonstrated her fashion courage throughout the Wicked promotional tour. Her styles have ranged from a bubble dress in Singapore to a sophisticated strapless black gown at the European premiere and a striking purple caped evening gown in Paris.
Despite occasional fashion criticism, Michelle Yeoh continues to use her platform to advocate for greater representation and understanding, proving she's found her voice after years of being taught to remain silent.
