Last night I watched the 2008 Asian Excellence Awards on E! and the show was so good I wish it lasted longed. Here's my recap: Sharon Leal won the award for Outstanding Film Actress in This Christmas. She gave a nice acceptance speech thanking her Filipina mother and appreciated the acknowledgement of her work and mixed heritage. Sonja Sohn, of Korean descent, who won the award for Supporting Television Actress in The Wire had similar sentiments. That was really cool.
Kristi Yamaguchi was presented with a special Inspiration Award for profound work in Olympic Ice Skating and for being an encouraging role model for young Asian-Americans. She definitely rocks. I remember watching her when I was little and she was one of my favorites.
Tia Carrere sang a song off her Grammy-nominated album Hawaiiana. You may remember her best from Wayne's World or True Lies. She's done a bunch of things and I'm glad she's still pressing on in Hollywood's tough industry. It would really like to see her star in a quirky drama i.e. something like Juno that could be a hit at all the major film festivals.
America's Best Dance Crew winners the JabbaWockeeZ performed alongside KABA Modern for the opening number. They were undeniably cool.
Lindsay Price gave a teary-eyed speech when she won for Outstanding Television Actress for her role in Lipstick Jungle. I've been a fan of Price's since she was on one of my soap-operas back in the day so it was fun to see her get recognized for her work.My favorite Dancing With the Stars instructor Cheryl Burke won for Favorite TV personality. She looked fabulous.
Carrie Ann Inaba (Dancing With the Stars judge) and Bobby Lee (MADtv) did a great job hosting the show. Sometimes Lee was a little off with his jokes but he had some real funny ones too.
All in all, the show was a blast. I'm really glad award shows like this exist because celebrating diversity is totally worth it. Congratulations to all nominees and winners. I'm already excited to what new talent will emerge for next year's presentation.
[Hat tip Angry Asian Man]
