Ke Huy Quan: An Immigrant's Journey to Hollywood's Biggest Stage

Ke Huy Quan says Oscars speech was a chance to ‘publicly’ thank his refugee parents

The American Dream on Hollywood’s Biggest Stage

Ke Huy Quan: An Immigrant’s Journey to Hollywood

In a world often divided by politics, culture, and differing ideologies, there are moments that transcend the noise. These moments remind us of the core values that unite us. One such moment occurred during the 2023 Academy Awards. Ke Huy Quan was a former child actor, then became a stagehand. Now, he is an Oscar-winning actor who delivered a tearful and heartfelt acceptance speech. It captured the essence of the American Dream.

Ke Huy Quan’s family fled Vietnam after the communist takeover and became refugees, eventually being resettled in California. In 2023, he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He played the husband in the hit film Everything Everywhere All at Once.

“My journey started on a boat. I spent a year in a refugee camp. And somehow I ended up here on Hollywood’s biggest stage,” said Ke Huy Quan in accepting the award. “They say stories like this only happen in the movies. I cannot believe it’s happening to me. This is the American dream.” This statement was simple yet powerful. It resonated with millions. It is a testament to resilience, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a better life.

As he held his Oscar, Quan thanked his 84-year-old mother, who was watching from home. “Mom, I just won an Oscar!” he exclaimed, a declaration filled with childlike wonder and profound gratitude. His speech wasn’t just about his personal triumph. It was a tribute to his family. He honored his heritage. He also paid tribute to the countless immigrants who dream of a brighter future.

Everything Everywhere All at Once producer Jonathan Wang dedicated the Oscar for Best Picture to his immigrant father. “This is for my dad, who, like so many immigrant parents, died young.”

Quan elaborated on his past: “I was just a normal kid in Vietnam in 1978, and all of a sudden my parents decided to flee the country. I didn’t understand what was happening. All I knew was I was separated from my mom, from my little brother and a couple of my sisters.” His candid reflection sheds light on the emotional toll of immigration, a narrative often overlooked in political discourse.

Despite his early success in films like Indiana Jones and The Goonies, Quan faced a 20-year hiatus from acting. The limited opportunities available for Asian actors were the reason for this break. During this period, he never blamed the industry. “I was taught never to blame anybody. If something doesn’t go the way you want, it’s either because you didn’t work hard enough. Or you weren’t good enough. It also be because you didn’t try hard enough.” This mindset of personal accountability and perseverance is deeply rooted in the immigrant experience.

Ke Huy Quan wins best supporting actor Oscar decades after childhood stardom, struggle to find work

Quan’s unwavering optimism was fueled by his wife, Echo, who believed in him even when he doubted himself. “Trust me, your time will come,” she assured him, month after month, for 20 years. Her faith was rewarded when Quan landed his role in Everything Everywhere All at Once. The film mirrored his own immigrant story.

His Oscar speech was a masterclass in gratitude: “Dreams are something you have to believe in. I almost gave up on mine. To all of you out there, please keep your dreams alive.” These words, devoid of entitlement or bitterness, highlight the virtues of hard work, patience, and family support.

Ke Huy Quan embodies the American Dream differently. It is not a pursuit of wealth or status. Instead, it is a celebration of opportunity, resilience, and gratitude. His story reflects Ronald Reagan’s “Shining City on a Hill.” It is a narrative that conservative values have long cherished.

We celebrate Quan’s triumph. It reminds us that America’s greatness lies in its ability to offer hope. America provides opportunity to those who dare to dream. His story is a beacon for everyone. It illuminates the path of perseverance, faith, and the enduring spirit of the American Dream.

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