Michelle Yeoh accepts Honorary Golden Bear at Berlin Film Festival

Michelle Yeoh accepted the Honorary Golden Bear at the 76th Berlin Film Festival, wiping away tears as she spoke of gratitude and her career. Filmmaker Sean Baker presented her and their short film Sandiwara is due to premiere in Berlin on Friday.

Michelle Yeoh accepted the Honorary Golden Bear at the Berlinale Palast during the 76th Berlin Film Festival, appearing emotional as she collected the award. The 63-year-old wore a gold gown and was introduced on stage by filmmaker Sean Baker, who recently collaborated with her. Yeoh spoke of gratitude, described the honour as a pause rather than a conclusion, and reflected on her journey from Malaysia to international cinema. Key details: - Yeoh, aged 63, accepted the Honorary Golden Bear and was seen wiping away tears during her speech. - Filmmaker Sean Baker presented the award and has a short film with Yeoh, Sandiwara, which is scheduled to premiere in Berlin on Friday. - In her remarks Yeoh expressed gratitude, recounted traveling across languages and genres, and addressed young artists about belonging and difference. - The article notes Yeoh’s notable roles in Wicked, Crazy Rich Asians, Everything Everywhere All at Once and Tomorrow Never Dies. - Yeoh grew up in Ipoh, Malaysia, trained at the Royal Academy of Dance in London, and first gained attention in Hong Kong action films in the 1990s. - The Honorary Golden Bear has previously been given to figures including Helen Mirren, Martin Scorsese, Meryl Streep, Steven Spielberg and Tilda Swinton. Summary: The ceremony highlighted Michelle Yeoh’s decades-long presence in international film and included public praise from a recent collaborator. The festival continues with screenings and the planned premiere of Sandiwara, a short film featuring Yeoh.