When the award for best actress was announced, it was "Everything Everywhere All at Once" star Michelle Yeoh who got the statuette and the standing ovation. In Yeoh's emotional speech, she thanked her mother and her colleagues, past and present, while also noting the historic nature of her win — the first self-identified Asian actor to win best actress, and only the second actor of colour to win the award in the 95-year history of the Oscars.
"For all the little boys and girls who look like me watching tonight, this is a beacon of hope and possibilities. This is proof that dreams do come true," she said.