Born: July 20, 1971 (Nepean, Ontario)
Sandra Miju Oh OC (born July 20, 1971) is a Canadian and American actress. She is known for her starring roles as Rita Wu in the HBO comedy series Arliss (1996–2002), Dr. Cristina Yang in the ABC medical drama series Grey’s Anatomy (2005–2014), and Eve Polastri in the BBC America spy thriller series Killing Eve (2018–2022). She has received two Golden Globe Awards and four Screen Actors Guild Awards. In 2019, Time magazine named Oh one of the 100 most influential people in the world.
Oh first gained recognition for her roles in the Canadian films Double Happiness (1994) and The Diary of Evelyn Lau (1994). She showcased her versatility as an actress through these performances and established herself as a rising talent in the Canadian entertainment industry. This early success laid the foundation for her future achievements.
Throughout her career, Oh has demonstrated her incredible range and skill through various television and film projects. She has portrayed diverse characters and captivated audiences with her compelling performances. In addition to her iconic portrayal of Dr. Cristina Yang in Grey’s Anatomy, she has taken on notable roles in television shows such as Judging Amy and American Crime. Oh has also lent her voice to animated series like American Dad!, American Dragon: Jake Long, and The Proud Family, showcasing her versatility as a voice actress.
On the big screen, Oh has delivered memorable performances in a wide range of genres. From the comedy film Bean (1997) to the critically acclaimed drama Sideways (2004), she has consistently showcased her acting prowess. Her ability to bring complex characters to life is evident in films like Rabbit Hole (2010), where she portrayed a grieving mother, and Hard Candy (2005), where she portrayed a woman seeking justice.
Oh’s talent and dedication have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. She has won two Genie Awards for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role for Last Night and Double Happiness. Additionally, Oh received a Gemini Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Dramatic Program or Mini-Series for The Diary of Evelyn Lau.
In 2019, Oh made history as the first woman of Asian descent to host the Golden Globe Awards at the 76th ceremony. She broke barriers again when she became the first actress of Asian descent to be nominated for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. Oh also made history as the first woman of Asian descent to win two Golden Globes.
Oh’s impact extends beyond her acting career. As an influential figure in the entertainment industry, she has become a role model for aspiring artists, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Her achievements have showcased the power of talent, perseverance, and breaking down barriers.
In her personal life, Oh remains grounded despite her success. She was born in Nepean, Ontario, to middle-class South Korean immigrants, Oh Young-nam and Oh Jun-su. Their move to Canada in the early 1960s provided a new beginning for the family. Oh’s parents instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for her cultural heritage.
Overall, Sandra Oh’s career has been marked by remarkable talent, groundbreaking achievements, and a commitment to pushing boundaries. As an actress, she has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, inspiring countless individuals along the way. Sandra Oh’s influence extends beyond her roles, making her a trailblazer in women’s history.
Awards:
– Two Golden Globe Awards
– Four Screen Actors Guild Awards
– Two Genie Awards for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role for Last Night and Double Happiness
– Gemini Award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Dramatic Program or Mini-Series for The Diary of Evelyn Lau.