Surprising Facts About Miyoshi Umeki, The Actress Who Threw Away Her Oscar

Miyoshi Umeki Shattered Ceilings

Miyoshi Umeki was a Japanese-American actress and singer who smashed prejudices when she became the first Asian actress to win an Oscar. Then she smashed expectations when she threw it in the bin.

1. She Was Born In Northern Japan

Miyoshi Umeki was born an entire ocean away from the Hollywood glitterati she would one day join. She was born on May 8, 1929, in Otaru, a coastal city on the northern Japanese island of Hokkaido. Given that her father owned an iron factory, she likely grew up relatively comfortably—if a little cramped.

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2. She Was One Of Many

Umeki was the youngest of her parents’ staggering nine children. But, growing up in a household with a ready-made audience might actually have been useful.

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3. She Drew Inspiration From Kabuki Theater

Even though she would go on to fame in Hollywood, Umeki never forgot her cultural roots. She credited traditional Kabuki theater as one of her earliest artistic influences, with its dramatic storytelling, vivid imagery, and rich history. Still, there was something about that far-off place across the sea she couldn’t shake.

4. She Dreamed Of American Music

Growing up in Hokkaido, Umeki developed an early fascination with American pop music, which she heard coming over the radio waves. Enchanted by its melodies, a sparkling ambition formed in her head—to one day travel to the United States. But first, she would have to hone her skills.l

Universal-International, Wikimedia Commons