Hollywood's Asian Superstar: An Interview with Nancy Kwan

About this episode

Shannon Allen interviews Nancy Kwan about her groundbreaking career as Hollywood's first Asian Superstar and her new memoir.

Nancy Kwan is an actress, author, dancer, screenwriter, and filmmaker. With films such as 1960’s The World of Suzie Wong and 1961’s Flower Drum Song, Nancy became Hollywood’s first Asian Superstar. Her casting in roles specifically written for Asian actresses, and in non-race-specific roles, was unprecedented, changing the way moviegoers viewed the Asian community and creating more opportunities for Asians in the film industry. Join Shannon and Nancy as they discuss Nancy’s extraordinary life and career, from her films to her friendship with Bruce Lee and what it’s like to be serenaded by Elvis Presley. And be sure to read Nancy's new book, The World of Nancy Kwan: A Memoir by Hollywood’s Asian Superstar, for Nancy’s full story.

People in this episode

Host: Shannon Allen

Guest: Nancy Kwan

Topics covered

• Asian representation in Hollywood
• Nancy Kwan's career
• Film history
• Cultural impact
• Memoirs

Keywords

• Nancy Kwan
• Asian Superstar
• Hollywood
• film history
• memoir
• Bruce Lee
• Elvis Presley

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: The World of Suzie Wong, Flower Drum Song, The World of Nancy Kwan: A Memoir by Hollywood’s Asian Superstar

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