It really tickles me that when they search for Asians in any role on Broadway or Hollywood, they go to London and New York; and not Asia. Glad they finally went to Manila and found Lea Salonga.
@@death_ledger Yeah, I know, I was wrong about the play being written for her. I do remember someone from Repertory Philippines, the theatrical company Lea belonged to at the time, saying that Cameron Macintosh already wanted Lea to play Kim even before she auditioned.
This is actually applicable for everyting; Racism and discrimination. In teaching, white people who are called NES believes that they are the only people who has the right to teach english subject in school, they belittle people who are from other countries most particularly asian countries.
Because she's using the standard phonetic sound that any educated person can understand. One of the problems of some Filipino teachers in the US during their first year in teaching is the accent in which the American students could hardly understand what they've been saying.
Lea is a one tough girl... I like it that she didn't play a VICTIM of racism, instead she proved herself worthy to get the roles. That's what we call a true role model.
Not only was/is she worthy but honestly when she takes something on she becomes the lead that all look up to and realize they can never duplicate or surpass.
I’m still mad at Disney for how she was snubbed off of “Aladdin” live action film. She deserved at least a vocal part or an original song just as Celine did hers on Beauty & The Beast.
To be fair they were trying to cast middle eastern people for a movie set in the middle East. Also as far as the new mulan goes, it isn't a musical and since she is mulans singing voice it makes sense. Not everything is a snub.
@@kaitlynlindsay4143 they let Christina redo her performance of reflection. obviously, it won't be in the movie itself, but it will be in the soundtrack, so it's a shame they looked down on her
@@Crawlingdreams418 I didn't know about the Christina thing, but I do know that DIsney doesn't look down on her. My mom works for Disney and is a Disney Ambassador and works a lot of events with celebrities. She worked D23 in which they made Lea a Disney Legend about 10 years ago. My mom was instructed by all the higher-ups to treat this woman as a QUEEN. They didn't induct Christina as a Legend until the last few years and she was not treated with the same respect, bordering on reverence, that Lea was. I just think it's silly to jump straight to assuming it is a snub or they look down on her. The Disney company loves her, she regularly does BIG TIME Disney events such as Candlelight (a big deal and HUGE honor) and Christina is not invited do so. It could just be that Christina saught Disney out and asked to do it, and Lea didn't.
Asian women generally have softer and more delicate facial features compared to western women. That's why they tend to look younger than western women at the same age. This applies to men too.
I am stunned that the fact she was Asian was ever a factor with Lea Salonga. I see and hear her as a phenomenal musician, singer, and actress. Thank God she broke through a barrier that never should have existed. She is at the top of the best that Broadway, the West End and Hollywood have to offer.
Bahahahaha.... She's the only Asian who played the Caucasian lead role for Fantine and Eponine in Les Miserables on Broadway, and took home both the Tony Award & the Lawrence Olivier award for Miss Saigon. She's so gifted and talented she got Caucasian roles even though she is Asian. Her voice is flawless and she has perfect diction not nasal, pitchy or screeching. She is is the singing voice of princess Jasmine of Disney 27 years ago and still sings it perfectly as if it was only yesterday 🤣. She's a living legend. It is an honour to hear her sing live. No auto-tuning needed.
In the Philippines She is known to be a very professional, disciplined, focus artist. She is taking her Job seriously. We're just waiting for her to be a Philippine National Artist.
@@heavenoh6886 i'm not filipino, but my country has a lot of local dialects too. And my accent subconsciously mimic the person i'm talking to. Sometimes i'm worried if i offend them :
Maybe that’s what happens when your native language isn’t english? Very possible she’s mimicking multiple people’s pronunciations that she’s met throughout her career and it’s very interesting!
@@tumbke I've seen her other interviews. I think she has an American accent. She gets a slight Filipino accent when she does shows and interviews in her own country and it remains American everywhere else. It's quite fascinating.
@@Bhawna03 She slips into a British accent here though. I can hear it in certain parts. I'm quite surprised that she can do that as this is the first time I've heard her do it. It's decent though.
As a Filipino, I’m beyond unworldly proud of her immaculate success in music. She’s like a Goddess here in the Philippines when it comes to complimenting her talent. She brought Asia to the very top of international theater music!
I love that she didn't go the I-am-a-victim route when she was asked about the discrimination she experienced when she was starting out. We should all learn from that!
It is funny that people feel the need to make this about race or that Filipinos abroad are better than Filipinos who are not. Lea absolutely didn't delve into those issues and why should we? I mean, can we just take this as a life lesson in general?
There are lots of racism in America, Europe, in Australia as being Asian. We are all human but differ in color and looks. But our physical feature will die and lost. Our souls doesn’t have a feature of any race, as we face God we are all the same to be judged.
A white or black man would not be able to get a lead role in Bollywood, Korean movies, Japanese or become a K-pop star does that mean Asians are racist towards white and black man?
To be honest racism is just everywhere, no matter what your color is. White to black Yellow to black Brown to black Black to black White to brown Yellow to brown Brown to brown Black to brown White to yellow Yellow to yellow Brown to yellow Black to yellow White to white Yellow to white Brown to white Black to white Face it, these all happens. We just like to point fingers at each other.
I saw The Lea Salonga in Sweeney Todd just a few days ago and I must say her talent and skill are immeasurable. She didnt play Mrs Lovett, she IS Mrs Lovett. And Jasmine and Mulan and Kim and Eponine and so many more. Proud to be asian ✌🏼
I liked the part when she said, "i cant resent all of that if it lead me to all of this". A true story of success despite all the hardships and trials she faced...👍👍
Fyi....most educated asians not only speak English fluently but also articulate the language superbly....some got better vocabulary than native speakers!
I love her so much. The single best compliment I received while I was still performing was from a 4 year old girl who LOUDLY told her mom to "Shhhh Princess Jasmine is singing!" I love this woman so much. Lea Salonga is full of grace, talent, kindness, and class. She's definitely someone I'll always admire. Beautiful soul!
All the comments here are racist. Plain and simple. An Olivier and Tony award winning actor shouldn’t be turned down because of race. Talent is talent.
Why do blacks and Asians lately turn up in British drama classics from novels when none are mentioned in original books 📚 PC brigade AGAIN next James Bond to be a black woman ! Sure thats what Ian Fleming meant to make Bond just slip of pen 💩💩💩
Growing up in Britain as a minority it was difficult to find an South East Asian person on media....she is such a great inspiration and breath of fresh air!
robin212212 it’s not her “loss” if there wasn’t even an income in the first place. And I think geronimo’s point was that the show could and probably would make more money, become more sensational, and be part of the amazing culture that is Lea Salonga if she was considered for the roles. Since it happened long before Lea’s career sky rocketed, I think we’re all safe to assume that it’s clearly their loss, and not Lea’s. If only they’d knew Lea would be this iconic, they wouldn’t have made the mistake of letting her pass. :) ciao!
Her family is conservative,also she, she's a good obedient daughter,and really a hardworking famous stage actress, and not everyone can get a Tony award she deserved it. We are proud of her.many tried to be liked her nobody can replace her a real excellent voice, talented.
@@ialwaysbesingin a talk about race is non partisan in other countries. We don't care about the crazy division of political views. Philippines is a conservative country in western sense. Most of us don't care about pc culture and most want to upkeep our tradition. 🤗 A liberal can have Conservative notions and vice versa.
Her family is conservative,also she, she's a good obedient daughter,and really a hardworking famous stage actress. It’s true, she’s two-goody shoes, talented, pretty, intelligent almost perfect (because no one is really) but I’ve read something about her parents’ marital status and I’m not talking about her parents being separated and the media is kind to her, it skips that topic altogether..
I worked with many Filipinos when I lived in California. I had a few Filipino friends that could turn their accents on and off. It was kind of cool. If they were speaking Taglog, their Filipino accent would be on. Then when they went back to English, their accent would still be on. If I mentioned it to them, they could turn it off and speak with an American accent immediately. It was like turning on a light on and off (was instant). BTW, I totally agree that their are many talented Filipinos.
Lea is a living legend in the theatre industry. I think some people here do not understand the context of the interview. Lea is known for speaking her mind, her honesty and confidence. I don't hink she's playing the race card, why would she? She has nothing to prove. She was making a statement of her experience during her time.
What a beautiful story of hope - a strong Asian woman using her passion, talent, and determination to break through racist casting standards (which are symptomatic of larger societal issues) and pave the way for future performers. Lots of love for Lea Salonga! :)
Last year in my classroom I printed pictures of celebrities, framed them and hung them around my classroom. I wanted a variety of different ethnicities, all respectful individuals. Selena, LeBron, Oprah, Will Smith, Steve Hawking... And I included Lea Salonga. And when they asked who she was I explained they may not recognize her, but they've all most likely heard her, and I shared she was the singing voice for Jasmine and Mulan. They need to see their faces in successful careers. In celebrities worthy of being a role model.
"How can I resent all of that when it led to all of this..." I am blown away by her honesty and insight, and her astute analysis of her development as an artist. She is grateful for the opportunities that have come her way that allowed her to earn a living doing something she absolutely loves. She is a magnificent woman. God bless her and her family.
Check out her audition video for Miss Saigon. She was about 17 years old and spoke with a British Accent, blew my mind. I think being interviewed in England makes the accent come out a little bit. After going down a Lea Salonga UA-cam rabbit hole today, I got the impression she grew up posh in Manila. She was pre-med at 17 when she auditioned for Miss Saigon.
I so adore this woman. Her amazing talent is second to none. None of the Filipinos in the same industry can parallel her achievements. She is a force to be reckoned with. Much love for Leah!🥰
The comments section is filled with a bunch of sissies. It's easy for us to make assumptions because we hadn't been where Lea has been. Just think about it. Back then people didn't care much about Asians be it on any form of broadcast media unless one wanted to have a good laugh. Her struggles were real in a caucasian dominated industry that catered mostly to caucasians. Just because things are starting to change now doesn't make her experience less authentic. Her success is and will always be due to her own merit! Because she worked hard and she didn't close her doors.
it was really a big thing during her time when people are all "hollywood". but look what's going on… westerners are going gaga over asians - kpop, jpop. people now see the need to cater to worldwide audience not just the select and favored few. i must also add that a big chunk of asians are also feeling inferior until now, being at one time or another being colonized by westeners - sense of identity gone and pride trampled by the colonizers' "superiority'.…
Things aren't changing now, things already changed. Lea was one of the great people who paved a path for Asians, not just Filipinos, to be known worldwide. Edit: Lea is*
Notice the ppl bringing up her and the word discrimination are mostly white...like someone can't mention that it has happened to them without being considered an entitled complainer. It's ridiculous
The lead role in Miss Saigon when she was 18, and others. Also singing Mulan and A Whole New World for Disney Movies. That is only a small part of what she had done. She is a role model for younger people who want to follow in her footsteps. She is more than up to all those things. I wonder what she will do next? I cannot wait.
One cannot listen to any of her singing and deny the talent that this lady has. We are so blessed today for the existence of UA-cam giving us the whole world of artists that are out there. I never heard of Lea Salonga until about 2 weeks ago while listening to some Tara Simon reaction videos. And that introduced me to the music of Miss Saigon and so it goes. Keep fighting the fight and standing up for that perfection that has driven your life. God bless
Eloquent as ever. I ❤️ me some Lea Salonga ever since her KLIM commercial. And her journey of uplifting Filipino talent unto the world stage is a pride shared by a grateful country.
Saw Lea play Mrs. Lovett last year and she was amazing! She carried that play to the finish line! I loved it so much my only regret was not getting to watch it twice as I only had enough money for one show ticket. Hopefully after this pandemic she will do more plays in the philippines so I can watch her again.
A FILM SHOULD BE DONE ABOUT LEA SALONGA *with Lea's input, the authenticity of the movie would be promising. i watch her performances a lot and shes beyond! I bet there is a lot more to her journey that the world could learn from and want to see 👌
@@Aoxshsjjx pinoy ako but I find Miss Lea's character classy. She's not arrogant but straightforward with gokd choice of words. Her words and acts scream elegance
Yung nagsasabing arrogant siya, un ung mga lumaki na ang tinuturo sa kanila eh ang mga ideal na babae dapat pa humble lagi at huwag assertive masyado magsalita, lol. Lea mostly spent her time in broadway or abroad, among different cultures, and learned to adapt and shaped her own personality, so judging her based on 'Filipina' standard is hilarious.
@@whirpoolmind more like mga insecure. Lea speaks with confidence and she has experience to back up that confidence. Filipinos think people like her are arrogant because they've achieved something and are confident in speaking their opinions whereas they have nothing to brag about themselves
The thing is she really was discriminated for being Asian. That was why she thanked the Actor's Equity, for letting her play the role of Kim in Broadway because they initially refused because is not an American.
@@marap4107 that's true but Lea almost didn't make it to Broadway because of Actor's Equity. Back then, Asian actors in Broadway was not a thing. Remember, Jonathan Pryce is not Asian but played an Asian role as the Engineer in Miss Saigon and won a Tony for it.
@@aryastark9249 nowadays do asian actors can sign up for actor's equity? I mean actors with asian citizenship, not asian americans. I thought actor's equity is exclusively for americans
@@bbmunchkins yes, kim is asian. But the actor's equity wanted to prioritize american nationals to get the part. Despite being asian which is perfect for the role, lea has philippines citizenship which means she was not a member of actor's equity, that's why she was initially rejected. But then they can't find american actor to replace her so she was cast anyway
@@jessboo173 I remember this issue. They went into an arbitration just so they could keep her from playing Kim. But Cameron McKintosh really pushed for her and no one else to do Kim.
Y'all should know that during those times in her career are the times where racism was really so bad, it only got better during these recent years, but it still exists. It's a good thing she still got those roles and were given those opportunities.
yes....and only reason they let her stay that long in broadway because she raked in money for the production company that time when broadway musical fans were declining. even those disney songs she did decades ago were not recognized and identified to her until just recently. they rather let others take the credit than lea, lucky for us there is the internet.
This interview just gave me so much respect to Lea as someone came from the Philippines cause admit it or not most of us Filipinos have been taking her the wrong side. Like, I couldn't imagine how terrible it felt to be misinterpreted the whole time. I felt so sorry. 🥺
@Aeta Tribe search mo dito sa youtube mv karagatan para malaman mo po kung pano nag start martial law wag ka po masyado maniwala sa media propaganda material yan nang mga nasa kapangyarihan
Not being a biased but i think they should make a movie or documentary about Lea Salonga's story from the start of her life through going abroad and making history.
She's brilliant! I assumed she is very hardworking, she have exceptional manners where everyone loves working with her....and she is talented (Duhhh!). On top of it, her voice is unique and delightful to ears. And by the way....she doesn't age at all, lol!
her thoughts are well spoken. she may look cold and snobbish to a number of people but her intentions are gold. a great ambassadress of the theatre. isa ka sa talagang huwaran. to Ms. Lea, RESPECT and TWO THUMBS UP!
LEA SALONGA IS LEA SALONGA OUR PHIPPINE PRIDE WHO OPENED OUT FOR THE PHILIPPINES TO OPEN UP AND ACCEPTED IN THE WORLD OF SONGS AND SINGERS, WE LOVED AND ADORED HER....
It really tickles me that when they search for Asians in any role on Broadway or Hollywood, they go to London and New York; and not Asia. Glad they finally went to Manila and found Lea Salonga.
they're thinking outside the box. hahhahaha.. or maybe? simple idiocy.. hahahahah.. they just want rich asians.
Some people say Miss Saigon was actually written with her in mind.
Wow! well said,,,,,, Godbless
@@eatsmylifeYT no it wasn't. Theatrical plays are already planned before creators go set up for auditions.
@@death_ledger Yeah, I know, I was wrong about the play being written for her. I do remember someone from Repertory Philippines, the theatrical company Lea belonged to at the time, saying that Cameron Macintosh already wanted Lea to play Kim even before she auditioned.
No one gets to be two Disney princess. She's graduated to Disney Queen.
She is The Queen💕
imagine wanting to be a disney character in 2019 LULW
Facts!
DITTOED !
Jodi Benson briefly voiced Belle
As I understand it, she believes that anyone should be offered the role if they deserve it regardless of their backgrounds.
i think what she meant is that if it the role doesnt identify a particular race then it could be played by anyone regardless of their ethnicity
That's f rasicm, what a shame for them
ian Clark M EFFIN OF YES!!!
I couldn’t agree more. 👏☺️
This is actually applicable for everyting; Racism and discrimination. In teaching, white people who are called NES believes that they are the only people who has the right to teach english subject in school, they belittle people who are from other countries most particularly asian countries.
excuse me but she's not just Asian..she's one hell of a freaking out of this world talented, classy, educated, articulate ASIAN!
😂😂😂
Exactly my point, sir! 👍🏻
She is filipino.
@@renatogenesjosejr.8843 which is basically an asian
@@Dolwerflamingo They only think Chinese and Japanese are the only Asians, they don't even know Indians are Asians😌😂
Westerns can hardly accept how brilliant Asian artists are.
Thats' plain racism.
To Ruel Reyes: Just take a look at Bruce Lee, that is why he started making films in Hong Kong. Hollywood stole his 'Kung Fu' tv show idea.
When westerners think they're talented... They should think there's an Asian people waiting to slap them
They do always think when it is about Asian, Asians are Talented and Smart.
Kinda insecure lol ahhaahhaha
Not only for artists, also with promotion and job positions.
When she speaks, her pronounciation so clear, very inspiring, i idolized her.
Lea Salonga is Lea Salonga.
There will be no one like Lea Salonga.
Pronunciation
@Maria Clara Carriedo i highly disagree
Because she's using the standard phonetic sound that any educated person can understand. One of the problems of some Filipino teachers in the US during their first year in teaching is the accent in which the American students could hardly understand what they've been saying.
Yep proud to be a Filipino!
Lea is a one tough girl... I like it that she didn't play a VICTIM of racism, instead she proved herself worthy to get the roles. That's what we call a true role model.
Not only was/is she worthy but honestly when she takes something on she becomes the lead that all look up to and realize they can never duplicate or surpass.
Oof harsh but true
But it's exhausting to keep having to prove herself when people with certain skin color can walk in being average.
@@theresag1969 True..that's what Toni Morisson said..racism is a distraction.
@@yogurtandbananas4552 on our part or the part of the casting director?
even the auto generated subtitle is correct when leah talked
enitsirk gEMps TRUE! Hahaha
Definitely true😍
Mulan was 'Milan' or 'Moulana' in the subtitle
Aww...so true....
🤦♂️🤦♂️🤦♂️
I’m still mad at Disney for how she was snubbed off of “Aladdin” live action film. She deserved at least a vocal part or an original song just as Celine did hers on Beauty & The Beast.
She's being snubbed again in the Mulan live-action. Smh
Arya Stark fr like are we surprised at disney now
To be fair they were trying to cast middle eastern people for a movie set in the middle East. Also as far as the new mulan goes, it isn't a musical and since she is mulans singing voice it makes sense. Not everything is a snub.
@@kaitlynlindsay4143 they let Christina redo her performance of reflection. obviously, it won't be in the movie itself, but it will be in the soundtrack, so it's a shame they looked down on her
@@Crawlingdreams418 I didn't know about the Christina thing, but I do know that DIsney doesn't look down on her. My mom works for Disney and is a Disney Ambassador and works a lot of events with celebrities. She worked D23 in which they made Lea a Disney Legend about 10 years ago. My mom was instructed by all the higher-ups to treat this woman as a QUEEN. They didn't induct Christina as a Legend until the last few years and she was not treated with the same respect, bordering on reverence, that Lea was. I just think it's silly to jump straight to assuming it is a snub or they look down on her. The Disney company loves her, she regularly does BIG TIME Disney events such as Candlelight (a big deal and HUGE honor) and Christina is not invited do so. It could just be that Christina saught Disney out and asked to do it, and Lea didn't.
the new Zayn and Zhavia version of “A Whole New World” not half as good as hers.
I agree
The magical thing that a whole new world had was not there in their version. It feels like the singers are just singing without emotions.
Lea's version is simply the best and can't be duplicated.
When I heard the 2019 version I thought they're both guys! I couldn't hear the "princess" part. No emotions, no magic.
SuperNikkitah i actually thought it was a cover by two UA-camr
Her pronunciation when she sing is clearer than my future.
mine too :)
Hello
Me
🤗🤗🤗😂😂😂
Collin Lui i am your future babe. Lol. Just kidding
Damn she almost 50 yet she looks like she in her late 20s to early 30s.
No she doesn’t look in her 20’s and 30’s she does look her age. It’s ok that she looks her age.
Asian don't raisin
league buddy! elsa of garendel is waving
My wife is her early 40's she looks like she's in her early 30's. Asian woman age more graciously.
Asian women generally have softer and more delicate facial features compared to western women. That's why they tend to look younger than western women at the same age. This applies to men too.
“I can’t resent all that if it lead me to all these.”
- Lea Salonga
🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Massive respect to that right. Inspiring coming from Lea
guestdeej A REAL QUEEN.
Aeta Tribe She’s not complaining. It’s an interview going back to her history. Is she supposed to retroactively change history?
Aeta Tribe She’s not complaining about it dumbass. Lea’s only telling the truth about the history.
life quote to live by.
Singing aside, her personality just shines. So eloquent and classy
I am stunned that the fact she was Asian was ever a factor with Lea Salonga. I see and hear her as a phenomenal musician, singer, and actress. Thank God she broke through a barrier that never should have existed. She is at the top of the best that Broadway, the West End and Hollywood have to offer.
Mulan’s “Reflection” has aged like wine
Nice trick of words hehe
Correct!
Yet as the wine ages.... Hehehehe
But i don't like wine :'(
Indeed
Bahahahaha.... She's the only Asian who played the Caucasian lead role for Fantine and Eponine in Les Miserables on Broadway, and took home both the Tony Award & the Lawrence Olivier award for Miss Saigon. She's so gifted and talented she got Caucasian roles even though she is Asian. Her voice is flawless and she has perfect diction not nasal, pitchy or screeching. She is is the singing voice of princess Jasmine of Disney 27 years ago and still sings it perfectly as if it was only yesterday 🤣. She's a living legend. It is an honour to hear her sing live. No auto-tuning needed.
she did not win Tony for Les Mis. she won it in Miss Saigon.
She's also the voice of Mulan
Sherley Bianca Bagares Baring the movie voice or singing voice??
@@nhyceelamanilao she is the singing voice of the original 1998 Mulan for the song, "Reflections."
Pride of the philippines..
Sorry but I don’t get the haters, she worked her arse off to get where she is and has an amazing voice
They’re not haters! She doesn’t look like the character. No more than a grown man can play a toddler.
Marc Wareham an asian playing an asian doesn’t look like the character?
@@indigoskywalker he doesn't have the brain to process it lol
Listening with ears 🎧 🎶 . Pure music
Yes she is. We Filipinos proud of her.
In the Philippines She is known to be a very professional, disciplined, focus artist. She is taking her Job seriously. We're just waiting for her to be a Philippine National Artist.
Disney: *makes movies from asian culture*
Also disney: no asians allowed
Ahahhahha
Lol 😂
Also Disney: Issa prank 😂😂
🤣🤣😂😂😂
Disney plagiarized the anime for The Lion King 😂
World class performer and that is lea salonga...
eye camera lea salonga is FAKE FILIPINA SHE HATE pilipino people
@@akosayo5912 lol
Lol
@@akosayo5912 ok boomer
yes ofcourse
Imagine, refusing a Lea Salonga or should I say THE LEA SALONGA.
And in Malisa there are mabe a thousand people who can sing like her. lol. Thats no big deal ^^
Patricknotthe Star tone down a little... some idiot might compare Lea Salonga to other singers⬆oops
MrZevv were they as legendary as her? no? okay then shut up.
@@MrZevv where are they now?
MrZevv, er...where is "Malisa"? Is that a place?
I love how her accent slightly changes depending on who she's speaking to. It's adorable.
Bhawna03 Most of Filipinos are like that 😂
@@heavenoh6886 i'm not filipino, but my country has a lot of local dialects too. And my accent subconsciously mimic the person i'm talking to. Sometimes i'm worried if i offend them :
Maybe that’s what happens when your native language isn’t english? Very possible she’s mimicking multiple people’s pronunciations that she’s met throughout her career and it’s very interesting!
@@tumbke I've seen her other interviews. I think she has an American accent. She gets a slight Filipino accent when she does shows and interviews in her own country and it remains American everywhere else. It's quite fascinating.
@@Bhawna03 She slips into a British accent here though. I can hear it in certain parts. I'm quite surprised that she can do that as this is the first time I've heard her do it. It's decent though.
As a Filipino, I’m beyond unworldly proud of her immaculate success in music. She’s like a Goddess here in the Philippines when it comes to complimenting her talent. She brought Asia to the very top of international theater music!
She's unreal. Class and sophistication dripping from her every word. Oozing out of her.
I love that she didn't go the I-am-a-victim route when she was asked about the discrimination she experienced when she was starting out. We should all learn from that!
Entitlement is the root of this problem, see how she just shrugs it off and take it as a way to progress much deeper into her craft.
British always have discrimination before and now.cuz lea she started in london.asians are talented.
She's filipino we dont whine bout what white pips did in the past
It is funny that people feel the need to make this about race or that Filipinos abroad are better than Filipinos who are not. Lea absolutely didn't delve into those issues and why should we? I mean, can we just take this as a life lesson in general?
confident people doesnt resort to the "victim mentality" "emotional drama".
She's being interviewed and she's answering. She isn't whining. Lol, ppl, why're y'all so sour?
No idea 😂 she amazing so is her daughter.
These people are hounded by their own guilt every time Lea speaks the truth.
@@carlomagno1196 true
There are lots of racism in America, Europe, in Australia as being Asian. We are all human but differ in color and looks. But our physical feature will die and lost. Our souls doesn’t have a feature of any race, as we face God we are all the same to be judged.
A white or black man would not be able to get a lead role in Bollywood, Korean movies, Japanese or become a K-pop star does that mean Asians are racist towards white and black man?
Amen well said bro
Right brother
I live in Asia and Asians discriminate each other too.
To be honest racism is just everywhere, no matter what your color is.
White to black
Yellow to black
Brown to black
Black to black
White to brown
Yellow to brown
Brown to brown
Black to brown
White to yellow
Yellow to yellow
Brown to yellow
Black to yellow
White to white
Yellow to white
Brown to white
Black to white
Face it, these all happens. We just like to point fingers at each other.
I saw The Lea Salonga in Sweeney Todd just a few days ago and I must say her talent and skill are immeasurable. She didnt play Mrs Lovett, she IS Mrs Lovett. And Jasmine and Mulan and Kim and Eponine and so many more. Proud to be asian ✌🏼
Saw her as Erzuile in Once on This Island on Broadway! She continues to prove how versatile she is as a performer! #QueenLea 👑❤️❤️👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
waaah her british accent is cominh out a little bit i love it!!!! shes soooo iconic!!! arghh
Heheh oo nga
She overly enunciates -- somewhat like Julie Andrews.
her accent is absolutly not british
Her accent is 100% OA.
But shes pilipino
I liked the part when she said, "i cant resent all of that if it lead me to all of this". A true story of success despite all the hardships and trials she faced...👍👍
Glydel Catiloc what a queen. she deserved all the success she have. she didnt play the victim but she became a victor.
And beautifully young. The Lord still guides her.
Her diction is so clear, I don't need any subtitles.
@Home Home huh? Why?
@Home Home Somebody didn't get it.
@Home Home dumb
@Home Home How is this racist ...dafuq man
Fyi....most educated asians not only speak English fluently but also articulate the language superbly....some got better vocabulary than native speakers!
She's so honest and concise with her replies.
I love her so much. The single best compliment I received while I was still performing was from a 4 year old girl who LOUDLY told her mom to "Shhhh Princess Jasmine is singing!" I love this woman so much. Lea Salonga is full of grace, talent, kindness, and class. She's definitely someone I'll always admire. Beautiful soul!
All the comments here are racist. Plain and simple. An Olivier and Tony award winning actor shouldn’t be turned down because of race. Talent is talent.
Nonsens. I cant play a viking blond or a african american also.
Why do blacks and Asians lately turn up in British drama classics from novels when none are mentioned in original books 📚 PC brigade AGAIN next James Bond to be a black woman ! Sure thats what Ian Fleming meant to make Bond just slip of pen 💩💩💩
Yes they should! If the characters a white woman, it should be played by a white woman!
@@marcwareham9351 Only if race is an integral part of the show. And so why are asian charactet being played by Caucasians?
@@marcwareham9351 u are clearly have issues with non white..
She is not whining. She is obviously being asked. Geez!
I wish I could speak English as good as her. Very articulate and clear.
Practice makes perfect its not like an exclusive talent or somethn
Ikr
@@banheesos i know. But i just admire the way she sounds.
@@banheesos read
The voice when she speaks
Even her laugh has a clear diction. Ghaaaad.
The literal ha ha ha
😂😂😂😂😂😂
i love and respect that Lea confidence!
Omg I was thinking the same thing!!!
Growing up in Britain as a minority it was difficult to find an South East Asian person on media....she is such a great inspiration and breath of fresh air!
Lea, it’s their loss not yours.
How is it not her loss if she loses income from not being considered for roles.
robin212212 it’s not her “loss” if there wasn’t even an income in the first place. And I think geronimo’s point was that the show could and probably would make more money, become more sensational, and be part of the amazing culture that is Lea Salonga if she was considered for the roles. Since it happened long before Lea’s career sky rocketed, I think we’re all safe to assume that it’s clearly their loss, and not Lea’s. If only they’d knew Lea would be this iconic, they wouldn’t have made the mistake of letting her pass. :) ciao!
@Aeta Tribe and it's not just any fame too. She has a very good foundation, unlike others who build too fast.
I've always enjoyed watching her interviews, it is honest and to do point. No ranting, just in your face truth. Respect.
Thats why her colleagues call her "Feisty"
Her family is conservative,also she, she's a good obedient daughter,and really a hardworking famous stage actress, and not everyone can get a Tony award she deserved it. We are proud of her.many tried to be liked her nobody can replace her a real excellent voice, talented.
She's definitely more progressive though especially where she talks about race.
@@ialwaysbesingin a talk about race is non partisan in other countries. We don't care about the crazy division of political views. Philippines is a conservative country in western sense. Most of us don't care about pc culture and most want to upkeep our tradition. 🤗 A liberal can have Conservative notions and vice versa.
Her family is conservative,also she, she's a good obedient daughter,and really a hardworking famous stage actress. It’s true, she’s two-goody shoes, talented, pretty, intelligent almost perfect (because no one is really) but I’ve read something about her parents’ marital status and I’m not talking about her parents being separated and the media is kind to her, it skips that topic altogether..
I beg to disagree about her mom..
It feels so weird to hear an English, American, and a hint of Filipino accent, all at once.
I worked with many Filipinos when I lived in California. I had a few Filipino friends that could turn their accents on and off. It was kind of cool. If they were speaking Taglog, their Filipino accent would be on. Then when they went back to English, their accent would still be on. If I mentioned it to them, they could turn it off and speak with an American accent immediately. It was like turning on a light on and off (was instant). BTW, I totally agree that their are many talented Filipinos.
I love that women and her voice, she's a perfect singer. Princess in every sense
Many have covered " A Whole New World" and nobody comes close to singing it as exquisitely as Lea sings it!
Low key, the Peabo Bryson version is the best..
Morissette is waving 😊
@JUS TINE morissette amon and darren espanto seems promising when they duet to sing a whole new world
Very true!
No one’s crystal is clearer than hers ☺️
Lea is a living legend in the theatre industry. I think some people here do not understand the context of the interview. Lea is known for speaking her mind, her honesty and confidence. I don't hink she's playing the race card, why would she? She has nothing to prove. She was making a statement of her experience during her time.
Plus, she was asked the question and she only relayed her experience truthfully. She didn't offer; she was prompted.
Still as impressive as how she was decades ago... love her, love her personality.
What a beautiful story of hope - a strong Asian woman using her passion, talent, and determination to break through racist casting standards (which are symptomatic of larger societal issues) and pave the way for future performers. Lots of love for Lea Salonga! :)
"I can't resent all of that if it led me to all of these..."
This tells a lot about her: wise, brave, grateful, and altogether pleasing.
"i'm like a shooting star, I've come so far" . . . indeed Miss Lea yes indeed
*_Leahs auto generated subtitle : 10/10_*
This is so true, I turned it on. It wasn't confused hahaha
now im looking at subtitles 🤣🤣
I don't need it (clearly) but now the comments make me want to turn it on just for fun lol
Make it 9/10 it puts up "Milan" instead of Mulan
Last year in my classroom I printed pictures of celebrities, framed them and hung them around my classroom. I wanted a variety of different ethnicities, all respectful individuals.
Selena, LeBron, Oprah, Will Smith, Steve Hawking... And I included Lea Salonga.
And when they asked who she was I explained they may not recognize her, but they've all most likely heard her, and I shared she was the singing voice for Jasmine and Mulan.
They need to see their faces in successful careers. In celebrities worthy of being a role model.
Lea salonga is so clever I just cant stop listening to her. Shes so like Catriona, very eloquent
I like Cat but she’s “showbiz eloquent”. Lea is very intelligent that’s why she’s eloquent.
she is intelligent and so smart of a lady.
Such massive and pure talent in this woman. One of the best female voices of all time.
"How can I resent all of that when it led to all of this..." I am blown away by her honesty and insight, and her astute analysis of her development as an artist. She is grateful for the opportunities that have come her way that allowed her to earn a living doing something she absolutely loves. She is a magnificent woman. God bless her and her family.
I love that she keeps changing her accent throughout the interview.
her accent didn't change tho. It's standard american accent all throughout
@@koromi0293 on certain words, she was saying the vowels in a British pronunciation.
So i've noticed
Rosemary Park like “mum/mom.”
Check out her audition video for Miss Saigon. She was about 17 years old and spoke with a British Accent, blew my mind. I think being interviewed in England makes the accent come out a little bit. After going down a Lea Salonga UA-cam rabbit hole today, I got the impression she grew up posh in Manila. She was pre-med at 17 when she auditioned for Miss Saigon.
I so adore this woman. Her amazing talent is second to none. None of the Filipinos in the same industry can parallel her achievements. She is a force to be reckoned with. Much love for Leah!🥰
So proud of Lea. Bright, talented and courageous person.
her accent goes between American, British and Filipino throughout this interview and its amazing
The comments section is filled with a bunch of sissies. It's easy for us to make assumptions because we hadn't been where Lea has been. Just think about it. Back then people didn't care much about Asians be it on any form of broadcast media unless one wanted to have a good laugh. Her struggles were real in a caucasian dominated industry that catered mostly to caucasians. Just because things are starting to change now doesn't make her experience less authentic. Her success is and will always be due to her own merit! Because she worked hard and she didn't close her doors.
OMG 0.00001% error maybe
it was really a big thing during her time when people are all "hollywood". but look what's going on… westerners are going gaga over asians - kpop, jpop. people now see the need to cater to worldwide audience not just the select and favored few. i must also add that a big chunk of asians are also feeling inferior until now, being at one time or another being colonized by westeners - sense of identity gone and pride trampled by the colonizers' "superiority'.…
Things aren't changing now, things already changed. Lea was one of the great people who paved a path for Asians, not just Filipinos, to be known worldwide.
Edit: Lea is*
Notice the ppl bringing up her and the word discrimination are mostly white...like someone can't mention that it has happened to them without being considered an entitled complainer. It's ridiculous
I completely, 100% agree!
Her gold dangling earring reminds me of Jasmine’s earring ❤️
Imeldific?
She’s brilliant. Filipinos love her so much!
Not all Filipinos. Some can’t even understand her wit. Shame on them.
@@cheetos_1237 they just can't understand her English cuz it's so deep😂
@@gwynethgupit2347 possible. Hahaha.
She's glowing and she doesn't age. Love the simplicity.
The lead role in Miss Saigon when she was 18, and others. Also singing Mulan and A Whole New World for Disney Movies. That is only a small part of what she had done. She is a role model for younger people who want to follow in her footsteps. She is more than up to all those things. I wonder what she will do next? I cannot wait.
Also one of the Philippines’ best selling female artist.
A vocal coach and actress as well
She already proved it that she can do any roles….
One cannot listen to any of her singing and deny the talent that this lady has. We are so blessed today for the existence of UA-cam giving us the whole world of artists that are out there. I never heard of Lea Salonga until about 2 weeks ago while listening to some Tara Simon reaction videos. And that introduced me to the music of Miss Saigon and so it goes. Keep fighting the fight and standing up for that perfection that has driven your life. God bless
She's so eloquent. She deserves to be respected.
Eloquent as ever.
I ❤️ me some Lea Salonga ever since her KLIM commercial. And her journey of uplifting Filipino talent unto the world stage is a pride shared by a grateful country.
Saw Lea play Mrs. Lovett last year and she was amazing! She carried that play to the finish line! I loved it so much my only regret was not getting to watch it twice as I only had enough money for one show ticket.
Hopefully after this pandemic she will do more plays in the philippines so I can watch her again.
I love her. Aladdin and Mulan are still my all time favourite Disney films.
48 years old !?!? she looks like in her early 30s .
LJH720 yes for Asians. Our blood has magic :)
Not even touched by botocs 😁
every asian can tell shes over 40.
I thought she was in her 20s??? I'm asian???
@@koukimonzta True lol
"I'm 48 years old."
couldn't even tell damnnn
ZaphGaming yeah!
Asian age
that's how asians look
Well, genetics.
Theory is. The fountain of youth is in asia. lol
Lea is a tough and smart girl.Every songs she perform she nailed it.
Dang! Leah Salonga is a living legend, one of the Philippines national treasure and still grounded and humble.
A FILM SHOULD BE DONE ABOUT LEA SALONGA
*with Lea's input, the authenticity of the movie would be promising. i watch her performances a lot and shes beyond! I bet there is a lot more to her journey that the world could learn from and want to see 👌
No.
No one else can play her
Yaass! this has to happen
*_She sings as Jasmine of Alladin & Mulan such a clearer voice when she sang my fave disney voice_* ✨
For some, she's a bit pointy or arrogant, for some, she's just being honest. I must say, I hope there are more Lea in the Philippines, attitude-wise.
Ramir Enriquez she’s arrogant Kung sa Pilipinas siya
@@Aoxshsjjx Im guessing u dont personally know or been around her and are confusing her assertivness on television for "arrogance".
@@Aoxshsjjx pinoy ako but I find Miss Lea's character classy. She's not arrogant but straightforward with gokd choice of words. Her words and acts scream elegance
Yung nagsasabing arrogant siya, un ung mga lumaki na ang tinuturo sa kanila eh ang mga ideal na babae dapat pa humble lagi at huwag assertive masyado magsalita, lol. Lea mostly spent her time in broadway or abroad, among different cultures, and learned to adapt and shaped her own personality, so judging her based on 'Filipina' standard is hilarious.
@@whirpoolmind more like mga insecure. Lea speaks with confidence and she has experience to back up that confidence. Filipinos think people like her are arrogant because they've achieved something and are confident in speaking their opinions whereas they have nothing to brag about themselves
Deym. She's so direct, confident and is an epitome of a woman in control. So brilliant!
i wish filipino will.have their own.disney like Ibong Adarna played by her.or morissette
There's a Filipino animated film called Urduja it is somehow Disney ish 😂
We need a live-action film of Ibong Adarna, Florante and Laura, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. One with colors., please ;-;
Actually, that sounds interesting but it was actually sampled from a Russian tale
www.artrusse.ca/FairyTales/firebird.htm
The thing is she really was discriminated for being Asian. That was why she thanked the Actor's Equity, for letting her play the role of Kim in Broadway because they initially refused because is not an American.
@@marap4107 that's true but Lea almost didn't make it to Broadway because of Actor's Equity. Back then, Asian actors in Broadway was not a thing. Remember, Jonathan Pryce is not Asian but played an Asian role as the Engineer in Miss Saigon and won a Tony for it.
@@aryastark9249 nowadays do asian actors can sign up for actor's equity? I mean actors with asian citizenship, not asian americans. I thought actor's equity is exclusively for americans
@@bbmunchkins yes, kim is asian. But the actor's equity wanted to prioritize american nationals to get the part. Despite being asian which is perfect for the role, lea has philippines citizenship which means she was not a member of actor's equity, that's why she was initially rejected. But then they can't find american actor to replace her so she was cast anyway
Jess Boo a
@@jessboo173 I remember this issue. They went into an arbitration just so they could keep her from playing Kim. But Cameron McKintosh really pushed for her and no one else to do Kim.
Indeed, Leah has a Disney voice and no one can say no to that.
Y'all should know that during those times in her career are the times where racism was really so bad, it only got better during these recent years, but it still exists. It's a good thing she still got those roles and were given those opportunities.
yes....and only reason they let her stay that long in broadway because she raked in money for the production company that time when broadway musical fans were declining. even those disney songs she did decades ago were not recognized and identified to her until just recently. they rather let others take the credit than lea, lucky for us there is the internet.
@@sgtjoe2008 true true and true!
Tbh Broadway is still very exclusive to poc. For poc actors its easier to go hollywood than Broadway. Many disney girls are mixed/poc
This interview just gave me so much respect to Lea as someone came from the Philippines cause admit it or not most of us Filipinos have been taking her the wrong side. Like, I couldn't imagine how terrible it felt to be misinterpreted the whole time. I felt so sorry. 🥺
So true. Don't people doesn't really know who Lea is. They just follow bandwagon
The highlight "the role is not about looking pretty anymore", something that true talented people can utter.
Imagine all the hoops and hurdles that she went through to get where is is right now. She deserves.
Lea never fail to make Filipino proud!
Hindi ko nga prinoproblema yang poverty and corruption tapos ikaw anlaki ng problema mo haha
@Aeta Tribe Marcos CAn end injustice and poverty. #swissbank
Aeta Tribe yeah that's true.
Wtf this is about leah how tf it end up in politics😂
@Aeta Tribe search mo dito sa youtube mv karagatan para malaman mo po kung pano nag start martial law wag ka po masyado maniwala sa media propaganda material yan nang mga nasa kapangyarihan
She still has IT! Can’t wait to see her in Honolulu. Saw her in Les Miserable and she was amazing!
Who else loves how the title of this vid named her as the disney princess and not by her name per se. She really is indeed!
Not being a biased but i think they should make a movie or documentary about Lea Salonga's story from the start of her life through going abroad and making history.
She's brilliant! I assumed she is very hardworking, she have exceptional manners where everyone loves working with her....and she is talented (Duhhh!). On top of it, her voice is unique and delightful to ears. And by the way....she doesn't age at all, lol!
She's on her way to being 50 and she's still cute 😊😊😊
Her voice is Gold. Everytime I hear her sing she gives me goosebumps (in a very good way). Proud to be Pinoy!!
“I guess it's the same that a lot of young people are now obsessed with Hamilton“
Me in my head: Alexander Hamilton!!!
it's SERA_13 Rutaquio lol me too
She remains an inspiration, and I hope to get picked to sing A Whole New World with Lea one day!!
I just love Lea.
Very eloquent and well grounded thespian !
her thoughts are well spoken. she may look cold and snobbish to a number of people but her intentions are gold. a great ambassadress of the theatre. isa ka sa talagang huwaran. to Ms. Lea, RESPECT and TWO THUMBS UP!
❤️❤️❤️
yep! she's asian and so what!!!! she's talented and intelligent.way to go lea!!!!!
LEA SALONGA IS LEA SALONGA OUR PHIPPINE PRIDE WHO OPENED OUT FOR THE PHILIPPINES TO OPEN UP AND ACCEPTED IN THE WORLD OF SONGS AND SINGERS, WE LOVED AND ADORED HER....
*never miss to give me chills every single time she sings*
I love Idina Menzel but I crave for Lea Salonga's version