Amna Nawaz:
As the first Asian and only South Asian actress to be nominated for a best actress Oscar, Merle Oberon’s place in the pantheon of cinema is historic, but it came with enormous sacrifice. For decades, Oberon had to hide her race to stay working in film.
I recently spoke with writer Mayukh Sen whose new book, “Love, Queenie: Merle Oberon, Hollywood’s First South Asian Star,” chronicles Oberon’s rise to fame, her groundbreaking career, and eventual fade from the spotlight.
It’s part of our arts and culture series, Canvas.
Mayukh, welcome to the “News Hour.” Thanks for being here.
Mayukh Sen, Author, “Love, Queenie: Merle Oberon, Hollywood’s First South Asian Star”: Thank you for having me, Amna.
