Date of Birth: January 3, 1905
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Date of Death: February 3, 1961
Biography
Anna May Wong, born Wong Liu Tsong, was a pioneering Chinese American actress who became a prominent figure in Hollywood during the early 20th century. She was born on January 3, 1905, in Los Angeles, California. Wong’s career spanned silent films, sound films, television, stage, and radio, making her one of the first Asian American actresses to gain international fame. Wong began her career in film at the young age of 14, securing roles in silent films such as “The Red Lantern” (1919) and “The Toll of the Sea” (1922). She gained widespread recognition with her role in the 1924 film “The Thief of Bagdad,” where her exotic look and compelling performance captivated audiences. Despite facing significant racial discrimination and being typecast in stereotypical roles, Wong managed to carve out a niche for herself in the industry. In the 1930s, Wong moved to Europe, where she found more substantial roles and opportunities, starring in films such as “Piccadilly” (1929) and “Java Head” (1934). Her return to the United States saw her continue to break down racial barriers, although Hollywood’s racial prejudices often limited the depth of her roles. Anna May Wong’s contributions to the film industry were recognized later in life, as she became an icon for aspiring Asian American actors. She passed away on February 3, 1961, but her legacy endures as a trailblazer who challenged the norms of her time and opened doors for future generations.
5 Interesting Facts about Anna May Wong
1. Anna May Wong was the first Asian American actress to gain international fame.
2. She starred in over 60 films throughout her career, including silent films, talkies, and television series.
3. Wong was offered the leading role in the 1937 film “The Good Earth,” but it was given to a white actress, Luise Rainer, instead, due to Hollywood’s racial policies.
4. She is recognized as a fashion icon, with her distinctive style influencing fashion trends in the 1920s and 1930s.
5. Anna May Wong was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960, just a year before her death.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Anna May Wong
1. “I was so tired of the parts I had to play. Why is it that the screen Chinese is always the villain? And so crude a villain — murderous, treacherous, a snake in the grass.”
2. “You’re the most fascinating woman I’ve ever met. But what a shame that you’re Chinese.”
3. “It’s a pretty sad situation to be rejected by American producers because you’re Chinese and by Chinese producers because you’re American.”
4. “I shall be glad to have my role substituted for a Chinese woman, for I am sure that the public will be better satisfied.”
5. “I am convinced that I could play any role in any language if only I could hold the audience’s attention.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
$1 million (adjusted for inflation, this would be significantly higher in today’s dollars)
Children
Anna May Wong did not have any children.
Relevant Links
1. [Anna May Wong – Biography on IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0938923/bio
2. [Anna May Wong – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anna_May_Wong
4. [Anna May Wong’s Hollywood Walk of Fame Star](http://www.walkoffame.com/anna-may-wong
