WASHINGTON, May 4 – Malaysia’s Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh was one of 19 people to receive the US Presidential Medal of Freedom on Friday.
Others who received the highest US civilian award from President Joe Biden included Team USA swimmer and Olympic champion Katie Ledecky, assassinated civil rights leader Medgar Evers and television host Phil Donahue.
In presenting Yeoh with the medal at the White House, Biden said she has “shattered stereotypes and glass ceilings to enrich and enhance American culture”.
“Her roles transcend gender, cultures and languages, from martial arts to romantic comedies, to science fiction, to show us what we all have in common,” he added.
“As the first Asian actor to win an Oscar as best actress, she bridges cultures not only to entertain, but also inspire and open hearts. And that’s what she keeps doing. Congratulations.”
The 60-year-old actress made history in March 2023 by becoming the first Asian to win a best actress trophy at the Academy Awards for playing Evelyn Wang in the sci-fi comedy film Everything Everywhere All At Once.
The honoree list plays special homage to “firsts” in their field.
“Don’t let age get in your way,” Biden said to seven-time Olympic gold medalist Ledecky, as he encouraged her to seek more medals.
“Katie, age is just a number, kid. And I and I can’t wait to welcome you back to the White House with more medals from Team USA. I really mean it.”
Other winners included Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman in space; and Jim Thorpe, the versatile athlete who became the first Native American to win an Olympic gold medal in 1912.
