Miyoshi Umeki
Breakthrough Years
1957
Miyoshi Umeki achieved international fame with her American film debut in Sayonara. Her moving portrayal of Katsumi earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first Asian performer to win an Oscar in an acting category. This role dramatically launched her Hollywood career.
1958
Umeki made her highly successful Broadway debut as Mei Li in Rodgers and Hammerstein's musical Flower Drum Song. Her performance garnered a Tony Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical. This role established her as a prominent Broadway star following her Oscar win.
