35 Facts About Anna May Wong

Early Life and Background

Anna May Wong, born Wong Liu Tsong, was a trailblazing Chinese-American actress. Her journey to stardom was filled with groundbreaking moments and significant challenges.

1. Born on January 3, 1905, in Los Angeles, California, Wong was the second of seven children.
2. Her parents owned a laundromat in Chinatown, where she spent much of her childhood.
3. Wong's fascination with movies began at a young age, often skipping school to watch films.
4. She adopted the stage name "Anna May Wong" at just 11 years old.

Breaking into Hollywood

Wong's entry into Hollywood was marked by both success and struggle. She faced numerous obstacles due to her ethnicity but still managed to leave an indelible mark.

5. At 14, Wong landed her first role as an extra in the film "The Red Lantern" (1919).
6. Her first leading role came in "The Toll of the Sea" (1922), one of the first Technicolor films.
7. Wong became the first Asian-American actress to gain international fame.
8. Despite her talent, she was often typecast in stereotypical roles.

International Stardom

Wong's career wasn't confined to Hollywood. She sought opportunities abroad, particularly in Europe, where she found more diverse roles.

9. In 1928, she moved to Europe to escape Hollywood's racial typecasting.
10. Wong starred in several British and German films, including "Piccadilly" (1929).
11. She became a fashion icon in Europe, admired for her unique style.
12. Wong learned to speak French and German to expand her acting opportunities.

Advocacy and Legacy

Beyond her acting career, Wong was a vocal advocate for better representation of Asian-Americans in film. Her legacy continues to inspire many.

13. Wong was a critic of Hollywood's practice of casting white actors in Asian roles.
14. She refused a major role in "The Good Earth" (1937) because it perpetuated negative stereotypes.
15. Wong became the first Asian-American actress to star in her own TV show, "The Gallery of Madame Liu-Tsong" (1951).
16. She was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.

Personal Life and Challenges

Wong's personal life was as complex as her career. She faced numerous challenges but remained resilient.

17. Wong never married, citing her career and racial barriers as reasons.
18. She struggled with alcoholism later in life.
19. Wong was close friends with actress Marlene Dietrich.
20. She was an avid reader and enjoyed studying Chinese history and culture.

Later Years and Death

Wong's later years were marked by a mix of continued advocacy and personal struggles. Her contributions to the film industry remain significant.

21. In the 1950s, Wong returned to the U.S. and continued to work in television.
22. She planned a return to film with "Flower Drum Song" (1961) but passed away before production began.
23. Wong died of a heart attack on February 3, 1961, at the age of 56.
24. Her funeral was attended by many Hollywood stars, reflecting her impact on the industry.

Honors and Recognition

Wong's contributions have been recognized posthumously, ensuring her legacy endures.

25. In 1960, Wong was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
26. The Anna May Wong Award of Excellence was established to recognize outstanding Asian-American actors.
27. In 2020, Wong was featured in the PBS documentary series "Asian Americans."
28. She was the first Asian-American woman to be featured on U.S. currency, appearing on the quarter in 2022.

Cultural Impact

Wong's influence extends beyond film. She has become a cultural icon, representing resilience and breaking barriers.

29. Wong's life inspired the 2020 novel "The Forbidden City" by Vanessa Hua.
30. She was portrayed by actress Michelle Krusiec in the Netflix series "Hollywood" (2020).
31. Wong's fashion sense continues to influence designers and fashion enthusiasts.
32. Her story is taught in film and Asian-American studies courses across the U.S.

Fun Facts

Wong's life was filled with interesting tidbits that highlight her unique personality and experiences.

33. Wong was an accomplished cook, often preparing elaborate Chinese meals for friends.
34. She loved animals and had several pets, including a pet monkey named "Bimbo."
35. Wong was a skilled calligrapher, often practicing traditional Chinese calligraphy in her free time.

Anna May Wong's Lasting Legacy

Anna May Wong's impact on Hollywood and beyond is undeniable. She broke barriers as the first Chinese-American movie star, paving the way for future generations. Her talent, resilience, and determination helped her overcome the racial prejudices of her time. Wong's roles in films like "Shanghai Express" and "The Toll of the Sea" showcased her versatility and depth as an actress.

Her legacy continues to inspire actors and filmmakers today. Wong's story reminds us of the importance of representation and diversity in media. Her contributions to cinema are celebrated, and her influence remains strong. As we remember Anna May Wong, we honor a trailblazer who changed the face of Hollywood forever. Her journey serves as a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of those who dare to dream big.