Malaysian-born, Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to her global stardom. Surrounded by her “chosen family,” Yeoh, celebrated for her roles in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and “Everything Everywhere All at Once,” expressed disbelief and hope, stating the honor proves “where you begin does not define where you can go.”

Michelle Yeoh has earned one of Hollywood’s most lasting honors. The Oscar-winning actor received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on Wednesday, marking a milestone in a career that began in Malaysia and grew into global stardom. Standing before friends, fans, and colleagues, Yeoh called the moment “insane and surreal.” She said the honor felt even more special because she was surrounded by what she described as her “chosen family.”

Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony honors Michelle Yeoh

As reported by GMA, acclaimed directors Ang Lee and Jon M. Chu introduced Yeoh before she stepped up to the podium in Hollywood. Lee, who directed her in ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,’ praised her as a “great movie star.” He highlighted her talent, professionalism, and dedication to her craft.

Chu, who worked with Yeoh on ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ and the ‘Wicked’ films, described her as a “beacon of hope and possibility.” He pointed to her historic Academy Award win and said, “(The Oscar was) a career win, but even more so a generational shift, making a fact that no one can dispute.”Yeoh rose to fame in 1990s Hong Kong action films before building an international career. Her credits include ‘Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon,’ ‘Tomorrow Never Dies,’ ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ and Marvel’s ‘Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.’ In 2023, she became the first Asian performer to win the Academy Award for Best Actress for ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once.’

Michelle Yeoh reflects on Malaysia’s roots and Oscar history

Reflecting on her childhood, Yeoh said she never imagined seeing her name on Hollywood Boulevard. “The star may have been one way, but it represents so many people who made this journey possible,” she said. “I hope it also reminds someone, somewhere, that it is possible. That where you begin does not define where you can go.”She spoke about growing up in Malaysia and dreaming big. “Once I was a little girl from Malaysia, sitting under the vast sky, looking up at a single steady star, and daring to believe that I could follow,” she said. “And now there’s one on the ground!”Yeoh dedicated the honor to her parents. “This is our star,” she said, drawing a standing ovation from the crowd.