
Michelle Yeoh recently shared a heartfelt story about how a pivotal encounter with Quentin Tarantino reignited her passion for action films. In an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Yeoh reflected on a time when she was seriously considering stepping away from action movies after suffering a severe stunt injury in Hong Kong. Feeling disillusioned and uncertain about her future, she was on the verge of quitting the genre.
However, meeting Tarantino changed her perspective. The famed director, known for his love of bold storytelling, encouraged her to rethink her decision and reassured her that there were still ways to thrive in the action genre, even after a difficult setback. Yeoh recalled how Tarantino’s infectious enthusiasm helped her see that if she truly loved the work, she needed to find a better way to approach it.
Although Yeoh never worked with Tarantino directly, she values the advice he gave her. She even humorously recalled asking him why she wasn’t considered for a role in Kill Bill, to which Tarantino candidly replied, “No one would believe Uma Thurman could kick your ass!”
With renewed energy, Yeoh went on to build a remarkable career in action cinema, starring in iconic films like Wing Chun, Supercop, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, and Master Z: Ip Man Legacy. Her journey continues, and she most recently showcased her talents in the upcoming musical Wicked, where she stars alongside a talented cast including Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Jeff Goldblum. Yeoh’s story is a powerful reminder of how a bit of encouragement and a fresh perspective can revive a career and push boundaries in unexpected ways.