Anna Mae Wong was born in 1905. Her parents were poor immigrants in San Fransisco who lived above a laundry and had 7 other children. She starred in the first ever technicolor film when she was a teenager. She battled racism her entire career. The movie "Crimson City" was written specifically for her, but was instead given to Myrna Loy (from Montana)
Her most well known role was in Shanghai Express with Marlene Dietrich. She was paid 6,000$, while Dietrich was paid 78,000. But critics say that Wong stole the movie and was the best part of it.
One of her biggest career disappointments was being passed up for a role in Pearl S. Bucks "The Good Earth" The role was given to an Australian actress.
She even faced racism in her own country, when she went to visit she was pelted with rocks, because they saw her as an interloper.
During WWII she worked tirelessly for the USO and for Chinese war relief.
She dies in 1962 at the age of 56.
Just a couple of interesting information and some stunning pictures.
This is my husband's favorite silent film star (even before Clara Bow) so this is dedicated to him.
Such a beautiful actress. It's sad to hear about talent (or anything for that matter) being overlooked because of race. What a loss. Thanks for sharing her story and these gorgeous pictures!
ReplyDeleteHappy Tuesday,
Jen
lovely photos sooo gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteI am sorry to say that I've never even heard of this lovely lady. What a tragedy, that she was so often snubbed in her profession. To be turned down for roles of her own nationality, in favor of better-known actors from other countries - life is so unfair. But, then again, she DID break from the poverty known by so mnay Chinese-Americans at that time; she did achieve minor movie stardom, which is an enviable feat for a woman of any race during that time period.
ReplyDeleteStopping by to say thanks for visiting and following my blog. I rather like yours...I believe I'll follow you, too!
Thanks for the comments. To be fair I didn't know who she was either until my husband introduced me.
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