Anna May Wong

Wong Liu Tsong, known professionally as Anna May Wong, was born on January 3, 1905, in Los Angeles to second-generation Taishanese Chinese American parents. From a young age, she was captivated by the world of film, deciding at just eleven years old to pursue a career as an actress. Her journey began with a small role as an extra in the silent film The Red Lantern in 1919, and she quickly rose to prominence, becoming the first Chinese American film star in Hollywood.

Wong's career flourished during the 1920s and 1930s, where she became a fashion icon and achieved international stardom. She starred in groundbreaking films such as The Toll of the Sea, one of the first color films, and Douglas Fairbanks' The Thief of Bagdad. Her unique style and elegance earned her the title of the world's best-dressed woman from the Mayfair Mannequin Society of New York in 1934, solidifying her status as a top fashion icon of her time.

Despite her success, Wong faced significant challenges in Hollywood, often relegated to stereotypical supporting roles. Frustrated, she left for Europe in 1928, where she starred in notable plays and films, including Piccadilly. After returning to the U.S., she continued to break barriers, appearing in films like Shanghai Express and Daughter of the Dragon. However, a pivotal moment came in 1935 when she was overlooked for the lead role in The Good Earth, a decision that sparked controversy and highlighted the racial discrimination prevalent in the industry.

During World War II, Wong shifted her focus from film to supporting the Chinese cause against Japan. She made a significant return to the public eye in the 1950s with her television show The Gallery of Madame Liu-Tsong, marking a historic moment as the first U.S. television show starring an Asian American. Wong's life was tragically cut short when she passed away from a heart attack in 1961 at the age of fifty-six. In the years following her death, her legacy was often overshadowed by the stereotypical roles she portrayed, but her contributions to cinema and culture have been re-evaluated, especially around the centennial of her birth.