There are many superlatives that best describe Michelle Yeoh: Legendary. Iconic. Stunning. Talented. Brilliant. And, now… Triple Threat.
In Jon M. Chu’s Wicked, Yeoh plays Madame Morrible, the Dean of Sorcery Studies at Shiz University. Not only does Yeoh act and dance, but she sings in the role alongside Broadway superstars Cynthia Erivo and (Pop Princess) Ariana Grande.
Yeoh does wish she had danced more in the film, prompting her to tell The Nerds of Color, “I will make a heavy request to be part of the dancing choreography [next time].”
The Academy Award-winning actress has never been shy about saying what she wants or how she feels. Madame Morrible has been typically portrayed by a white woman, which Yeoh calls out. The Broadway musical first premiered in 2003, and no people of color were in its main cast. Now, times have changed for good.
“I think if this movie was done 10 years ago, Jon M. Chu wouldn’t be there,” Yeoh admits. “I wouldn’t be there. The whole concept and the need for diversity and inclusivity is so [important].”
Chu called Yeoh with the opportunity to star in the musical, which led her to be skeptical of her singing abilities. Erivo and Grande convinced Yeoh to take the part — receiving praise from critics and audiences. But that doesn’t mean Yeoh is ready for her Broadway debut.
“Hell no,” Yeoh laughs. “Not Broadway. I would love to do another Jon M. Chu movie musical.”
Could Yeoh reprise her role as Eleanor in Chu’s Crazy Rich Asians Broadway musical adaptation? We would love to see it!
“I would dare him not to ask me to join!”
Check out the interview below:
Wicked opens in theaters on Friday, November 22.