The Best Asian Actresses in Hollywood History

Ranker Film
Updated May 2, 2024 236.0K views 75 items
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Vote up your favorite Asian actresses based on their English-language work.

This list ranks the best Asian actresses in American and English-speaking film history, ranked by your votes. Throughout the history of Hollywood, movies have featured numerous talented actors of Asian descent. These leading Asian actresses have starred in every genre of film from stark dramas to slapstick comedies to fantastical musicals. Some of these Asian actresses have even won Academy Awards for their work.

Who are some of the greatest Asian actresses? Jennifer Tilly, whose father Harry Chan was Chinese, made our list. She was nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Bullets Over Broadway. Lucy Liu also appears on this list of the top Asian actresses. Lucy Liu received rave reviews for her work in films like Kill Bill and the Charlie's Angels franchise.

Miyoshi Umeki won an Oscar for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her performance in Sayonara. She later appeared in several TV series like The Donna Reed Show and Mister Ed. Spring Breakers actress Vanessa Hudgens, whose mother is of Filipino and Chinese descent, also made this list, as did the striking Wayne's World beauty, Tia Carrere.

Who do you think is the best Asian actress in the history of film? Does the list include all of your favorite East Asian actresses? Vote on this list and share your thoughts in the comments section.

Most divisive: Shannyn Sossamon
Over 6.4K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Asian Actresses in Hollywood History
  • Lucy Liu
    1
    Jerry Maguire, Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle, Kill Bill
    2,636 votes

    Lucy Liu is a multifaceted actress known for her work in film, television, and theatre. She gained widespread fame for her role as Alex Munday in the Charlie's Angels film series and as Ling Woo in the television show Ally McBeal. Liu has also lent her voice to prominent animated characters such as Viper in the Kung Fu Panda franchise and Silvermist in the Tinker Bell series.

  • Ming-Na Wen
    2
    Mulan, Prom Night, The Joy Luck Club
    1,423 votes

    Ming-Na Wen is an accomplished actress who has graced both the big and small screen. Her memorable performances include playing the role of Dr. Jing-Mei Chen on the popular medical drama ER" and lending her voice as Fa Mulan in Disney's animated classic Mulan. More recently, Ming-Na stars as Melinda May in the Marvel television series Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

  • Michelle Yeoh
    3
    Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Sunshine
    1,211 votes

    Michelle Yeoh is an internationally acclaimed Malaysian actress best known for her impressive martial arts skills and compelling roles in both Asian and Hollywood films. She gained global recognition for her portrayal of Wai Lin in the James Bond movie Tomorrow Never Dies and as Yu Shu Lien in the critically acclaimed Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Most recently, she was lauded for her role as Eleanor Young in the successful film Crazy Rich Asians.

  • Kelly Hu
    4
    Phineas and Ferb The Movie: Across the 2nd Dimension, Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan, X2
    1,563 votes

    Kelly Hu is an accomplished actress and former beauty queen who has enjoyed a successful career in film and television. She became widely known for her roles as Lady Deathstrike in X2: X-Men United and Sorceress Cassandra in The Scorpion King. Alongside her film work, Kelly has made notable TV appearances in hit shows like Arrow and Vampire Diaries.

  • Grace Park
    5
    Battlestar Galactica: The Plan, Razor, Romeo Must Die
    1,704 votes

    Grace Park is a talented Canadian-American actress widely recognized for her compelling performances in highly-rated television series. She captured audiences with her portrayal of Sharon 'Boomer' Valerii in the sci-fi series Battlestar Galactica, and as Kono Kalakaua in the rebooted Hawaii Five-0. Grace continues to captivate viewers in her current role as Katherine Kim in the family drama A Million Little Things.

  • Gemma Chan
    6
    Exam, Submarine, Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit
    634 votes

    Gemma Chan is an intelligent and versatile British actress who has made an impact in both film and television. She first gained attention as the enigmatic android Anita in the acclaimed series "Humans" and later wowed audiences with her portrayal of Astrid Leong in the blockbuster film Crazy Rich Asians. Chan's most recent role as Minn-Erva in Captain Marvel showcases her range and talent in the superhero genre.

  • Zhang Ziyi
    7
    Rush Hour 2, House of Flying Daggers, Memoirs of a Geisha
    1,310 votes

    Zhang Ziyi is a highly celebrated Chinese actress who has garnered international praise for her work in renowned film productions. Her breakthrough performance came in the award-winning martial arts film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, where she played the headstrong Jen Yu. Zhang continued to captivate audiences with starring roles in House of Flying Daggers and Memoirs of a Geisha.

  • Constance Wu
    8

    Constance Wu

    The Architect, Stephanie Daley, Sound of My Voice
    1,097 votes

    Constance Wu is a talented American actress who captivated audiences with her role as the strong-willed and independent Jessica Huang on the hit sitcom Fresh Off the Boat. She gained international recognition for her portrayal of Rachel Chu in the widely acclaimed romantic comedy Crazy Rich Asians. Constance's dedication to her craft has earned her nominations for prestigious awards, including a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Motion Picture - Comedy or Musical.

  • Olivia Munn
    9
    Iron Man 2, Magic Mike, Date Night
    696 votes

    Olivia Munn is an accomplished actress and television personality who first rose to prominence as the host of G4's Attack of the Show! She made a successful transition to acting, with notable roles in TV series like The Newsroom and films such as Magic Mike and X-Men: Apocalypse. Olivia's witty humor and undeniable charisma continue to win over fans and critics alike.

  • Brenda Song
    10
    First Kiss, The Little Engine That Could, The Suite Life of Zack & Cody: Sweet Suite Victory
    965 votes

    Brenda Song is a vivacious American actress who made her mark on the entertainment world as a Disney Channel star in hits like The Suite Life of Zack & Cody and "Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior." Her transition to more mature roles in television series such as Pure Genius and Dollface has further displayed her versatility and talent. Brenda's ability to captivate audiences with her charm and wit shows she will continue to have a successful career.

  • Tamlyn Tomita
    11
    The Day After Tomorrow, Four Rooms, The Karate Kid
    543 votes

    Tamlyn Tomita is an experienced Japanese-American actress known for her strong performances in both film and television. She first gained recognition for her role in The Karate Kid Part II and later impressed critics with her work in The Joy Luck Club. Tamlyn continues to bring depth to her characters in popular television series such as Berlin Station and Cobra Kai.

  • Maggie Q
    12
    Rush Hour 2, Around the World in 80 Days, Deception
    1,363 votes

    Maggie Q is an accomplished actress and model known for her striking beauty and powerful presence onscreen. She garnered international fame with her role as Nikita in the action-packed television series Nikita and as Tori Wu in the Divergent film series. Maggie continues to showcase her incredible range in the crime drama television series Designated Survivor.

  • Jamie Chung
    13
    Sorority Row, Premium Rush, Grown Ups
    1,241 votes

    Jamie Chung is a stunning American actress who made a name for herself with appearances on MTV's reality series The Real World: San Diego. She successfully transitioned to acting with roles in movies like Sucker Punch and Big Hero 6, and TV shows including Once Upon a Time and Lovecraft Country. Jamie continues to demonstrate her versatility and has become a sought-after Hollywood talent.

  • Kelsey Chow
    14

    Kelsey Chow

    The Amazing Spider-Man, Den Brother, Run
    359 votes

    Kelsey Chow is a fresh-faced American actress who has quickly become a fan favorite on both the small and big screens. Known for her role as Mikayla Makoola on Disney XD's Pair of Kings, Kelsey has also displayed her acting prowess in the CW drama One Tree Hill and the action-adventure film Wind River. Fans eagerly anticipate her upcoming projects as she continues to make a splash in the entertainment industry.

  • Gong Li
    15
    Memoirs of a Geisha, Miami Vice, Raise the Red Lantern
    974 votes

    Gong Li is an accomplished Chinese actress whose captivating performances have earned her critical acclaim around the world. She made her mark in international cinema with her role in Red Sorghum and has since delivered memorable performances in films such as Raise the Red Lantern, Farewell My Concubine, and Memoirs of a Geisha. Gong Li's exceptional talent and ability to embody diverse characters has firmly established her as one of the finest actresses in the industry.

  • Liu Yifei
    16
    The Forbidden Kingdom, The Four, The Assassins
    376 votes

    Liu Yifei, also known as Crystal Liu, is a Chinese-American actress who found success in both the Chinese and Hollywood film industries. Her elegant portrayal of Golden Sparrow in The Forbidden Kingdom showcased her exceptional martial arts and acting skills. Yifei recently starred in Disney's live-action adaptation of Mulan, playing the titular character and receiving high praise for her performance.

  • Ellen Wong
    17
    Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, Silent Night
    281 votes

    Ellen Wong is an engaging Canadian actress known for her memorable performances in both film and television. She became a fan favorite with her portrayal of Knives Chau in the cult classic film Scott Pilgrim vs. the World and has continued to captivate audiences in television series like GLOW and The Carrie Diaries. Ellen's vibrant energy and undeniable talent make her a standout in the entertainment industry.

  • Kristin Kreuk
    18
    EuroTrip, Ben Hur, Street Fighter: The Legend of Chun-Li
    1,161 votes

    Kristin Kreuk is a talented Canadian actress known for her mesmerizing performances in highly popular television series. She first gained widespread fame for her role as Lana Lang on Smallville before portraying Catherine Chandler on the rebooted Beauty and the Beast series. Kristin continues to delight audiences with her work in the legal drama Burden of Truth, demonstrating her impressive acting range.

  • Li Bingbing
    19
    Resident Evil: Retribution, A World Without Thieves, Purple Butterfly
    628 votes

    Li Bingbing is a renowned Chinese actress and singer who has dazzled audiences with her powerful performances in both Asian and international films. Her roles in Detective Dee: The Mystery of the Phantom Flame and Zhongkui: Snow Girl and the Dark Crystal showcase her incredible acting range. Li made her mark in Hollywood with her performance in the blockbuster Transformers: Age of Extinction and continues to impress on the global stage.

  • Tia Carrere
    20
    Wayne's World, Back in the Day, Scooby-Doo!
    1,245 votes

    Tia Carrere is a captivating American actress and singer whose exotic beauty and powerful screen presence have left a lasting impression on audiences. She gained international fame for her role as Cassandra Wong in the Wayne's World film series and further showcased her range in the action-packed television show Relic Hunter. Tia's successful endeavors in both acting and music demonstrate her immense talent and versatility.

  • Claudia Kim
    21
    The Avengers: Age of Ultron
    366 votes

    Claudia Kim, born Kim Soo-hyun, is a talented South Korean actress who has found success in both her home country and Hollywood. After making her mark in Korean dramas, Claudia landed roles in high-profile films such as Avengers: Age of Ultron and Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald. Her ability to effortlessly embody various characters has garnered her a dedicated international fan base.

  • Arden Cho
    22

    Arden Cho

    Mega Python vs. Gatoroid, Walking the Halls, Hood Rats 2
    624 votes

    Arden Cho is a dynamic American actress, singer, and model who garnered a dedicated fan following for her portrayal of Kira Yukimura in MTV's Teen Wolf. She has showcased her versatile talent in various web series, including Miss 2059 and Tween Fest. Arden's undeniable charm and captivating performances have made her a standout in the entertainment industry.

  • Chloe Bennet
    23

    Chloe Bennet

    874 votes

    Chloe Bennet is a vibrant American actress and singer known for her powerful onscreen presence and remarkable range. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Daisy 'Skye' Johnson in the Marvel television series Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Chloe's undeniable talent and her ability to bring complex characters to life make her a sought-after performer in the industry.

  • Sandra Oh
    24
    The Princess Diaries, Sideways, Hard Candy
    431 votes

    Sandra Oh is an award-winning Canadian actress known for her emotionally charged performances in film and television. She garnered critical acclaim for her role as Dr. Cristina Yang on the long-running medical drama Grey's Anatomy, earning Golden Globe and Primetime Emmy nominations. Sandra currently stars in the hit BBC series Killing Eve and has received numerous awards for her portrayal of Eve Polastri.

  • Nichole Bloom
    25

    Nichole Bloom

    Project X, Model Minority
    1,018 votes

    Nichole Bloom is an exciting American actress who has quickly made a name for herself in the television world. She gained recognition for her role as Amanda on Shameless and has since become a fan favorite for her portrayal of Cheyenne on the hit sitcom Superstore. Nichole's captivating charm and undeniable talent have made her a rising star to watch in Hollywood.

  • Chiaki Kuriyama
    26
    Kill Bill Volume 1, Kill Bill Volume 2, Battle Royale
    378 votes

    Chiaki Kuriyama is a Japanese actress and model best known for her intense roles in iconic films. Her breakout performance as the ruthless Gogo Yubari in Quentin Tarantino's Kill Bill, Volume 1 left an indelible mark on audiences. Chiaki's memorable turn as Takako Chigusa in the cult hit Battle Royale further cemented her status as a fearless and captivating actress.

  • Huang Shengyi
    27
    Kung Fu Hustle, Race to Witch Mountain, Call for Love
    208 votes

    Huang Shengyi, also known as Eva Huang, is a talented Chinese actress who has made a name for herself in both domestic and international film productions. Her roles in Kung Fu Hustle and The Sorcerer and the White Snake showcase her impressive acting skills and captivating screen presence. Huang's magnetic performances continue to win over audiences around the world.

  • Rosalind Chao
    28
    What Dreams May Come, Freaky Friday, I Am Sam
    392 votes

    Rosalind Chao is a seasoned actress with an impressive career spanning film, television, and stage. She gained widespread acclaim for her role as Keiko O'Brien in the popular sci-fi series Star Trek: The Next Generation and Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Rosalind has also delivered memorable performances in films such as The Joy Luck Club and Memoirs of a Geisha.

  • Katie Leung
    29

    Katie Leung

    Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2
    568 votes

    Katie Leung is a Scottish actress who found international fame for her portrayal of Cho Chang in the beloved Harry Potter film series. Her memorable performance in the franchise earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Katie continues to deliver powerful performances in television series like One Child and The Nest.

  • Olga Kurylenko
    30
    Seven Psychopaths, Centurion, Oblivion
    649 votes

    Olga Kurylenko is a striking Ukrainian-French actress and model known for her action-packed roles and alluring onscreen presence. She gained international recognition for her role as Camille Montes in the James Bond film Quantum of Solace and later showcased her range in movies like Oblivion and The Death of Stalin. Olga's ability to portray strong, complex characters has made her an in-demand actress in Hollywood.