Anna May Wong, born Wong Liu Tsong on January 3, 1905, was an American actress of Chinese heritage who achieved significant milestones in the entertainment industry. She is recognized as the first Chinese-American film star in Hollywood and the first Asian-American to gain international recognition. Her career was remarkably diverse, encompassing vaudeville, silent film, sound film, television, stage, and radio. Despite facing considerable challenges
and stereotypical roles in Hollywood, Wong's dedication to her craft and her pursuit of more nuanced characters led her to international success and a lasting legacy.
Early Life and Entry into Film
Wong grew up in a culturally diverse neighborhood in Los Angeles, adjacent to Chinatown. Her father encouraged exposure to the creative arts, often taking the family to traditional Chinese stage productions. However, young Anna was captivated by the burgeoning film industry in the area, dreaming of becoming a movie actress like Pearl White or Mary Pickford. Her aspirations began to materialize at the age of 14 when a local Baptist minister, James Wang, who frequently worked with film productions, recommended her as an extra in Alla Nazimova's silent production of "The Red Lantern" in 1919. This early experience led her to leave school before graduating, fully committing to her acting ambitions.
While still a teenager, Wong secured the lead role of Lotus Flower in "The Toll of the Sea" (1922), a significant achievement as it was one of the first films made in color. This role marked her breakthrough, establishing her as a rising star. She continued to build her filmography during the silent era, appearing in notable productions such as Douglas Fairbanks' "The Thief of Bagdad" (1924). By 1924, Wong had not only achieved international stardom but also became a fashion icon, embracing the flapper look and later being voted the "world's best dressed woman" by the Mayfair Mannequin Society of New York in 1934.
Navigating Stereotypes and Seeking Opportunities Abroad
Wong's career unfolded during an era when East Asian Americans were frequently cast in negative or stereotypical roles, often portrayed by non-East Asian actors using makeup to mimic Asian features. Despite her talent and top billing, she often faced discriminatory pay. For instance, in the 1931 film "Daughter of the Dragon," she was paid only half the amount received by Warner Oland, a non-Asian actor who played her father and had less screen time. Oland was frequently cast as an Asian character, notably as Chinese detective Charlie Chan.
Frustrated by the limited and stereotypical roles available in the United States, Wong sought opportunities in Europe. She relocated to Germany for a few years in the late 1920s, where she found more nuanced roles and critical acclaim in films like "Piccadilly" (1929). Her time in Europe allowed her to expand her artistic range and gain further international recognition, demonstrating her versatility beyond the confines of Hollywood's narrow perceptions.
Later Career, Television, and Legacy
Upon returning to the United States, Wong continued to work in film and made history in television. In 1951, the DuMont Television Network created "The Gallery of Madame Liu-Tsong," a mystery series specifically for her, making it the first U.S. television show to star an Asian-American. She appeared in a handful of American television programs until her death in 1961. Her film career spanned 60 or 61 films, with the first 40 being during the silent era. Biographer Graham Russell Gao Hodges has suggested that "Just Joe," her final attributed film, might have actually featured actress Marie Yang, who may have used Wong's name for the production.
Wong's commitment extended beyond entertainment; during World War II, she dedicated her time and money to support the Chinese cause against Japan, paying less attention to her film career during these years. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on February 8, 1960, a testament to her enduring impact. Although she was remembered for some of the stereotypical roles she was given, her life and career have been re-evaluated, particularly around the centennial of her birth, through literary works and film retrospectives, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer who influenced future generations of actors and filmmakers.
