Michelle Yeoh Seeks New Challenges After 1st Oscar Win

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – Michelle Yeoh says she is seeking new challenges, including working as a producer, after crediting her historic Oscar triumph last month to tenacity, hard work, and enthusiasm.

The 60-year-old was the first Asian woman to win an Academy Award for best Actress as a laundry owner in “Everything, Everywhere, All at Once.” The film received seven prizes, including Best Picture.

After returning to Malaysia to celebrate her mother’s birthday, Yeoh expressed relief after winning the award.

“It was a roller coaster ride that began last year with the film’s release.” “It was a year of not knowing, wanting, hoping, and wishing,” she said during a press conference. “Throughout the journey, everyone asked, ‘Do you want the Oscar?'” Yes, I answered, of course, I want the Oscar. Who wouldn’t? I won’t dodge the question and say no because it means so much to many of us.”

Yeoh said her Oscar win was a “beacon of hope” for Asian women.

“It shows us that it can be done and that all of you can do it,” she remarked.

Yeoh said her Oscar win was a “beacon of hope” for Asian women.

Yeoh, who began her career in Hong Kong before becoming a Hollywood star, described herself as “blessed” to have been able to work on various films and with “forward-thinking filmmakers to fight for what I truly believe in — representation, diversity, and especially the empowerment of women.” She stated that she refuses to be boxed into stereotyped roles and believes in stretching the boundaries of her work.

While she has no desire to direct, she has stated that she may return to the industry as a producer.

“Directors don’t have a life. “I love my life too much,” she joked. “I enjoy producing. I’ve already produced, and now I can resume… Now that others listen and appreciate what you offer, I can spread out more. I enjoy what I can accomplish as an actor. “I am so fortunate to be able to say that it is not a job but rather a passion.”

Yeoh stated that she would return to London to finish filming “Wicked,” a two-part film adaptation of the hit Broadway musical directed by Jon Chu. She stated that she hopes to return to Asia in the coming months.

“I am always looking for a new challenge,” Yeoh explained. “I believe there is a great deal to be done in our corner of the planet. We are all together. Avoid isolating yourself. Please don’t feel obligated to always convey my tale. We are storytellers and collaborators. Let us collaborate and achieve big things.”

SOURCE – (AP)