Sandra Oh Bio
Sandra Miju Oh OC (born July 20, 1971) is a Canadian and American actress. She is best known as Rita Wu in Arliss (1996–2002), Cristina Yang in Grey’s Anatomy (2005–2014), and Eve Polastri in Killing Eve (2018–2022). Sandra Oh has received one Primetime Emmy Award from 14 nominations, as well as two Golden Globe Awards and four Screen Actors Guild Awards. In 2019, Time magazine named Oh one of the 100 most influential people in the world.
Early Life and Background
Sandra Miju Oh was born in Nepean, Ontario, Canada, to South Korean immigrants Oh Young-nam, a biochemist, and Oh Jun-su, a businessperson. She has a brother, Ray, and a sister, Grace, and grew up in a Christian household. Oh began practicing ballet at age four and took up acting at the age of ten, performing in school plays and joining the drama club. She attended Sir Robert Borden High School, where she founded an environmental club and served as student council president. Despite her parents’ advice, she chose to pursue drama at the National Theatre School of Canada instead of accepting a journalism scholarship to Carleton University. After graduating from the National Theatre School in 1993, Oh starred in a stage production of David Mamet’s Oleanna in London, Ontario. She gained recognition for her roles in the Canadian films Double Happiness (1994) and The Diary of Evelyn Lau (1994), winning Genie Awards for both films.
Path to Hollywood
Sandra Oh’s early career included notable performances in Canadian cinema, where she gained prominence for her lead role in Double Happiness, portraying Jade Li, a young woman navigating her cultural identity. Her performance was critically acclaimed, earning her a Genie Award for Best Actress. She also appeared in the film Last Night (1998), which further solidified her reputation as a talented actress. Oh’s work in television began with roles in series such as Judging Amy and Six Feet Under, where she showcased her range as an actress. In 2000, she gained further recognition for her role in the HBO series Arliss, where she played Rita Wu, receiving nominations for her performance. This role marked a significant transition into the broader film and television industry, paving the way for her later successes.
Sandra Oh Career
Early Career (1989–2004)
Sandra Oh’s career began in 1989, and she quickly made a name for herself in the Canadian film industry. Her breakthrough came with the film Double Happiness, which won her critical acclaim and a Genie Award. During this period, she also appeared in various films, including Last Night and the comedy Big Fat Liar. Oh’s performance in the HBO series Arliss earned her recognition and nominations for awards, establishing her as a prominent figure in television.
Breakthrough (2005–2014)
In 2005, Sandra Oh joined the cast of the hit ABC medical drama Grey’s Anatomy as Cristina Yang. Her portrayal of the ambitious and complex character garnered widespread acclaim, earning her multiple award nominations, including several Primetime Emmy nominations. Oh’s performance on Grey’s Anatomy was a defining moment in her career, making her a household name and earning her a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress. During her time on Grey’s Anatomy, Oh continued to work in film, appearing in projects such as The Night Listener and Rabbit Hole. She also hosted the 28th Genie Awards in 2008, showcasing her versatility as an entertainer. In 2013, she announced her departure from Grey’s Anatomy after ten successful seasons, leaving a lasting impact on the series.
Notable Works and Milestones
Sandra Oh’s signature works include her roles in Grey’s Anatomy and Killing Eve, both of which have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards. Her performance in Killing Eve, where she played Eve Polastri, a British intelligence agent, further solidified her status as a leading actress in Hollywood. In 2019, she won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Television Series Drama, becoming the first woman of Asian descent to win two Golden Globe Awards.
Sandra Oh Award Nominations
Throughout her career, Sandra Oh has received numerous award nominations, including 14 Primetime Emmy nominations, highlighting her talent and impact in the industry.
Sandra Oh Awards Won
Sandra Oh has won several prestigious awards, including one Primetime Emmy Award and two Golden Globe Awards, showcasing her exceptional talent and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Sandra Oh Family
Sandra Oh was born to Oh Young-nam and Oh Jun-su, both of whom are South Korean immigrants. She has a brother and a sister, Ray and Grace, respectively.
Personal Life
Sandra Oh was previously married to filmmaker Alexander Payne from 2003 to 2006. She became a U.S. citizen in 2018 and practices Vipassanā meditation. Oh has been an advocate for various causes, including speaking out against anti-Asian hate during rallies. She continues to be an influential figure in both the entertainment industry and her community.
