Michelle Yeoh took a shot at CNN‘s Don Lemon during her acceptance speech for Best Actress at the 95th Academy Awards on Sunday night. She was honored for her performance in Everything Everywhere All at Once. While holding the Oscar on stage, Yeoh told the women in the audience to never let someone tell them they’re past their “prime.” Lemon had been headlines, earlier this year, by remarking that politician Nikki Haley is no longer in her “prime.
“For all the little boys and girls who look like me watching tonight, this is a beacon of hope and possibilities,” she began her acceptance speech. “This is proof that … dream big, and dreams do come true. And, ladies, don’t let anybody tell you you are ever past your prime.”
Michelle Yeoh At The Oscars
Lemon made his original remark on CNN This Morning while discussing Haley’s announcement that she intends to run for president in 2024. “This whole talk about age makes me uncomfortable,” Lemon said in February. “I think it’s the wrong road to go down. She says people, you know, politicians or something are not in their prime. Nikki Haley isn’t in her prime, sorry. A woman is considered to be in their prime in 20s and 30s and maybe 40s.”
As for the rest of Yeoh’s speech, she dedicated the win to her 84-year-old mother. “I have to dedicate this to my mom [and] all the moms in the world, because they are really the superheroes, and without them none of us would be here tonight,” she said. “She’s 84. I’m taking this home to her. She’s watching right now in Malaysia … with my family and friends: I love you guys! I’m bringing this home to you.” She also thanked her “extended family in Hong Kong, where I started my career. Thank you for letting me stand on your shoulders, giving me a leg up so I can be here today.” In addition to Yeoh winning Best Actress, Everything Everywhere All at Once also took home Best Picture.
Michelle Yeoh’s Speech
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