The world of Nancy Kwan
Hong Kong-born Nancy Kwan was catapulted into the international spotlight as the eponymous lead in the movie classic The World of Suzie Wong. Sixty-one years on, Kwan remains just as charming and active, writing and producing films. Faye Bradley reports.
"After The World of Suzie Wong and Flower Drum Song, Nancy was offered roles that didn't specify an Asian background, which was groundbreaking, even by today's standards," remarks Oscar-nominated filmmaker Arthur Dong. "She played French, Italian, Native American, and British parts, among others."
Dave Karger, a Turner Classic Movies host, agrees: "Suzie Wong is arguably Nancy's best-known role, and it's important because it was a fully fleshed-out Asian leading role, unlike so many of the stereotypical representations of Asians in films at the time, particularly in war-related movies."
Kwan joined Karger in cohosting a 2020 TCM video series spotlighting Asian Americans in classic Hollywood movies. "Nancy is a great example of a trailblazing performer, someone whose natural talent and charm forced the film industry to create new opportunities," notes Karger. "But she's also an example of how classic Hollywood failed non-white actors and actresses. When I spoke with her on TCM last year, she was clearly proud of everything she'd accomplished, but I also detected a bit of disappointment that she wasn't allowed to do even more."
