Michelle Yeoh believes that being cast in the Jon M. Chu-led movie “Wicked” is “what we call diversity.”
Yeoh, 60, will be playing the role of headmistress Madame Morrible in the upcoming film adaptation of the popular Broadway musical of the same name.
In a cover interview with People on Wednesday, the Oscar-nominated “Everything Everywhere All at Once” star shared that her role “would’ve been for a Caucasian lady” in the past.
“This is what we call diversity, inclusivity,” she declared. “This is how you make it work. It is a natural process — progress, evolution that we can have as storytellers.”
Yeoh also commented on fighting Hollywood stereotypes and shared how thankful she is “to be seen.”
A lot of actresses find, as the numbers get bigger, the roles start to dwindle. Over the last few years, I’m very proud that we have been breaking away from stereotypes — it’s not just lip service. It is happening. And it’s happening to me.
“You go from shock to bewilderment,” she continued, with tears streaming down her face. “‘Wow, is it me? How can it be me?’ Because I’ve worked with so many amazing actresses who should have had this privilege, and so I am very grateful to be given the opportunity to sit at the table and to be seen.”
Yeoh previously worked with Chu on “Crazy Rich Asians.”
In the hit 2018 film, which Chu directed, Yeoh plays Eleanor Sung-Young, the domineering mother of male protagonist Nick Young.
Just like the musical, the film adaptation of “Wicked” will explore the lives of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch before Dorothy Gale appears in the magical land of Oz.
Part 1 of “Wicked” is scheduled to premiere on Dec. 25, while Part 2 will hit cinemas on Dec. 25, 2024. Yeoh will be joined by several other big names, including Ariana Grande (Glinda), Cynthia Erivo (Elphaba) and Jonathan Bailey (Fiyero).
