Everything Everywhere Oscar success ‘the beginning of a bright future’ for Asians in Hollywood, hopes veteran actor George Cheung
- Cheung says Asians have played mainly supporting roles in his 50-plus years in Hollywood but Everything Everywhere All at Once could change that
- He says being typecast as a bad guy could be frustrating as an actor, but Clint Eastwood gave him some advice that put it in a different light
Asian representation in Hollywood has come a long way since Hong Kong-born American actor George Cheung was cast in roles such as “First Japanese Soldier”, “Guard #1”, “Lorry driver” and “Ice Cream Attendant” in the 1970s.
At this year’s Academy Awards, Everything Everywhere All at Once, which features a predominantly Asian cast, won seven out of 11 categories it was nominated in, including best supporting actor for Ke Huy Quan and best actress for Michelle Yeoh – a first for an Asian actor.
“I just saw a bunch of Chinese people [on stage]. I didn’t see anybody else. I was just so proud because I’ve never seen so many Asians winning up there,” said Cheung shortly after the awards ceremony.
“You know, once in a while you have a couple of Asians in the back but tonight, they were the leading ladies, there was a leading man, best picture and best original screenplay.
“I’ve been in Hollywood for over 50 years and we’re just supporting most of the time, but tonight was our night to shine. I hope it’s just the beginning of a bright future.”