“Everything Everywhere All at Once” star Michelle Yeoh has made history with her win for best performance by a female actor in a leading role at the Screen Actors Guild Awards, becoming the first Asian woman to win a leading film acting award. And her happiness knew no bounds when she accepted it.
“I think if I speak my heart will explode,” an emotional Yeoh said on stage. “SAG- AFTRA, to get this from you who understand what it is to get here… every one of you know the journey, the roller coaster ride, the ups and downs. But most importantly we never give up. I thank you… This is not just for me, this is for every little girl who looks like me.”
Struggling to get control of her emotions, the actress eventually gave up and burst into an excited string of expletives, screaming “shit” and “fuck” to an elated crowd. “Thank you for giving me a seat at the table and tonight you’ve shown us that it is possible,” she said. “I’m grateful and my mom will be eternally grateful to all of you.” If her her mom was watching, she may also remind her to watch her language.
Yeoh isn’t the only Asian nominee (or winner) from this year’s ceremony. Her “Everything Everywhere” co-star Ke Huy Quan became the first Asian male to win an individual film acting award, and Stephanie Hsu was also nominated in supporting actress. Hong Chau from “The Whale ” was nominated alongside Hsu,” marking the first time in SAG history two Asians were nominated in the same category.
