Hollywoods First Chinese American Movie Star - 'Anna May Wong'

Anna May Wong (January 3, 1905 – February 2, 1961) was the first Chinese American movie star to become an international star. Wong was a success in both film, television, stage, and radio.

She was born on January 3, 1905 near Los Angeles's Chinatown. Wong loved the movies and was fascinated with film and began acting at an early age.

She appeared in several well known hollywood silent era films including "The Toll of the Sea" (around 1922), she appeared with Douglas Fairbanks' in "The Thief of Bagdad" (1924) and in Piccadilly (a round 1929).

Wong became frustrated with the stereotypical supporting roles she had been given by Hollywood, and she left to Europe in the late 1920s, where she began starring in several films and plays there.

Wong gained an image as an international fashion icon, and by 1924 she had achieved international stardom. Wong spent the 1930s moving from United States and Europe seeking out more film and stage work. She was again featured in "Daughter of the Dragon" (1931) and "Daughter of Shanghai" (around 1937), and she then appeared with Marlene Dietrich in Josef von Sternberg's "Shanghai Express" in 1932.

The biggest insult may have come to Anna May when in 1935, the major Hollywood studio Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, refused to even consider Wong for the leading role in its film version of "The Good Earth". Instead MGM choose German actress Luise Rainer to play the leading role in "yellowface"(makeup). Unfortunately for years after her death, Anna May would be remembered for her stereotypical "Dragon Lady" and her demure "Butterfly" roles that she had been given.

Wong has since become more respected for being the success that she was at the time in Hollywoods 'silent era".

Anna May Wong died at the age of 56 on February 3, 1961, of a heart attack at her home in Santa Monica. Anna May had been planning to return to film in the upcoming movie "Flower Drum Song" when she died. Her legancy will never be forgotten.

Her 'Star' is on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Its located at 1708 Vine Street.



Lauren Ralph Lauren "St. Barts" Shawl-Collar Short Robe. Orig. $68.00 - Now $59.99 I want it

Lovely and luxurious: a medium-weight soft terry robe makes the perfect choice for snuggly comfort in warmer weather. Choose beautiful, bright aqua or classic white. Style #814522U.
Cotton/polyester.
Machine washable.
Imported.
Shawl collar.
White piping at collar, pockets and cuffs.
Logo at chest.
Ties at waist.
Hits at knee.