Ke Huy Quan Recalls Losing Health Insurance, Searching For Roles Prior To Oscars Win

Ke Huy Quan is filled with enthusiasm and gratitude following his Oscar win for Best Supporting Actor! In the Academy Awards press room, the "Everything Everywhere All At Once" actor reflected on the ups and downs of Hollywood journey, including losing his health insurance during the pandemic and the hurdles he encountered looking for roles. "I would [call my agent] and say, 'Hey, is there anything out there for me?' And the answer would always be the same: 'Oh, I'm so sorry, there's nothing out there, but I'll continue to look.' So hopefully, when I call my agent tomorrow, he'll give me another answer!" he told reporters. The actor also spoke about getting support from his "Goonies" co-stars and from his "Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom" director Steven Spielberg.
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Ke Huy Quan Recalls Losing Health Insurance, Searching For Roles Prior To Oscars Win
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#Oscars2023
#KeHuyQuan

[@gidgetdarcy]

If ever you’re feeling blue, just watch any video of this guy. He is such a boost of serotonin as soon as he appears on screen.

[@watersportsbyjamesfitzroy5870]

Like short round

[@murdockfiles9406]

You're not lying. Watching his Oscars speech, I didn't realize I had a smile on my face until after a moment.

[@ianw0ng]

yeah, his speeches and interviews should be broadcasted all the over the world 24/7 to infect the whole world with joy. he's like santa even without the presents.

[@lissandrafreljord7913]

He has such an effervescent childlike energy that brightens your mood. Indeed, a boost of serotonin.

[@fredwerza3478]

I think even Seth Rogan wanted to get some of the "Ke Juice" and inject it into his weed-poisoned veins LOL

[@jmnugget]

I never rooted this much for an actor in my life, both Ke and Brendan. I don't even watch the Oscars. I feel like we are all friends sharing this moment. My eyes bawled so hard when their names were called.

[@salutmelle]

100%. I do not watch these awards but Ke and Brendan winning, knowing their stories, their struggles… it was emotional to say the least.

[@noeliajaime7656]

Same.

[@NikkiDoesStufff]

Same! The academy finally did it right this year.

[@fredwerza3478]

This was the "Year of the Comeback" at the Oscars --- Ke and Brendan both got their due --- even Jamie Lee Curtis finally got hers!

[@_jpcap]

true bro, amazing

[@KnowPhere]

Knowing his struggles getting work in the industry and saying “Goonies never say die” while holding an Oscar warms my heart.

[@LarissaFay]

👏👏👏💖😭 don't I'm already balling. Now I'll never stop. It's so true though... just keep going. One step at a time.

[@albundy8192]

that was the 80s. when america was great and still is great.

[@alfredodistefanolaulhe2212]

@@albundy8192 Now is only great if Trump rules it, like Reagan in the 80's.

[@peacelife]

I know ❤

[@albundy8192]

true america was great when reagan was in charge. however it still is great compared to other countries . that is why so many still want to come here. however the last 2 years with bonehead puppet man have been the worst in history. not sure is trump is the answer maybe de santis or gov neom for south dakata.

[@coolsteve1985]

The dude is so nice and genuine. The Oscars couldn't go to a more deserving person. He deserved it. He was fantastic in the role.

[@NiyomKhun]

He is so nice and genuine yet amazingly great at portraying his character. That gaves him the oscar. Happy for him

[@bwtawny]

This man is how we Americans are supposed to be and used to be. A lot of us have lost our way. We need to follow his example.

[@roc7880]

grateful for chances and for being in the US.

[@rjlee818]

Sick of all the people who talk down on America. Sure, there are lots of problems and corruption, but it’s still the greatest country in the world, full of morality and opportunity. Stop bitching and start dreaming!

[@VuotoPneumaNN]

Well, it's not like everyone can count on the kind of miracle that happened to him.

[@TheRebellefleur27]

I find a bit of irony in your comment as the reason this man was shut out was because the racism and discrimination he endured by the Americans in his industry. Him and many others grew up in a time where America used to be a disheartening place to find opportunities as a person of colour. And for some, it still is. This man is an Asian immigrant. That is his story. And there are many like it. The America of today is a much more diverse and opportune place.

[@rjlee818]

@@TheRebellefleur27 Well, he’s not exactly Brad Pitt. Maybe it’s not race related. But he was still working in the industry.

[@clairedisapia]

An actor that’s actually happy to win an Oscar and grateful to be there. All Americans should pay attention to this truly humble and genuine human being ❤️

[@theMcWOPPER]

Name one actor/actress that wasn't happy to win an Oscar!!!

[@_NoHandle_]

They're all happy when they win an Oscar, this is a weird statement.

[@seaquest2681]

he poured his heart out at the oscars. i wanted to hug him that moment he and harrison ford hugged too! waahhhh!

[@mothmos]

everyone is happy to win an oscar, even Leo values it very much. It's just that Ke shows it fully without the fear of looking silly or childish or being judged, which is a breath of fresh air in hollywood, where people are trying to look reserved and classy and pish posh and all that

[@TheSuperk25]

@@katrinawong8273 Cate is usually always nominated.

[@jasonrhee]

It’s really important. This is so important. He got his Oscar, finally got the credit he honestly deserved for just his two performances in Goonies and Indiana Jones, he got it with his real name. He didn’t get it and wasn’t supposed to as Jonathan. So truly moving and wishing him never ending success.

[@gearswitch8193]

He is a very good actor

[@gearswitch8193]

@Who is Who? da fuq yu talking bout the man just won an oscar

[@richerDiLefto]

@Who is Who? There are no “perfect” actors.

[@jasonrhee]

@Who is Who? who is you? Oh right, nobody.

[@jasonrhee]

@Who is Who? no even worth any further response.

[@billiejean9947]

He radiates pure happiness and positive energy.He lights up every room he enters.Omg i wish everyone could be just like him.Keep going,Ke!you’re brilliant actor and person.

[@ndepodcastlifechangingmome9019]

I absolutely agree. We should be always grateful for everything in life good and bad. I love this man sooo much❤️🕊🙏

[@SerenityWithSelf]

He really is Waymond!!

[@sunnygarden4948]

From struggling to get work during the pandemic to holding an Oscar today. He is so relatable & thts why we love him

[@michelleh4717]

pandemic? he hadn't worked in 20 years :(

[@Godotlv5000]

Should also be an example that no matter how bad things are, life can change drastically fast if you take action.

[@kimjunguny]

@@Godotlv5000 So many stories like that happen, like David Harbour in getting a breakout role in stranger things.

[@TheLsd76]

Hollywood did us all dirty by keeping this amazing man away from his craft & from us for so long. He is a gem ❤️

[@user-tz9jh6pv2j]

The director actually tells the story about how execs didn't want him or Michelle to be cast in the movie. They wanted "white actors" instead. These Hollywood execs are still the same trash.

[@nonni139]

His parents really did a good job bringing up their 9 children. He is so sweet and he is just himself, he has a childs energy. I just love it. Troy Kotsur, Brendan Fraser and Ke Huy Quan, all three of them are real, humble men with emotions. I love to see more of all of these 3 men in movies.

[@karenlin-mahar3403]

We want to see Ke in MORE movies! Casting agents, please cast him! 👏👏👏

[@ricklee3]

I'm pretty sure he'll be in every comedy/adventure/action movie from now on

[@zitronentee]

He's already cast in Loki s2

[@fredwerza3478]

It's hard to imagine somebody winning an Oscar and not getting job offers --- if that happens, then racial discrimination is rampant in Hollywood

[@ciclallisilva4441]

I really like his personality I really think this year everyone who won was the right choice they all deserved it.

[@picard1233]

100%. I’ve never been so happy for any Oscar winner

[@Emeraldnite-if7vo]

When he said "Goonies never say die," it made me want a sequel SO bad.

[@SophonsCookieCreations]

God protect him and keep him pure.🙏🏼 He is not tainted by the vanities of fame & fortune. He reappeared at a time to REMIND celebrities to NOT forget where they came from. Goonies never say die.💪🏼

[@christophersantiago6845]

That's fucking right. GOONIES NEVER SAY DIE!!!

[@tnays17]

Ke huy Quan has been my favorite moment all award season. I’m so happy for him and I hope he gets cast in Oscar worthy films and always has his health insurance. What an amazing comeback journey.

[@WatDoino]

I actually don’t want him to aim for Oscar worthy films but more iconic and fun roles for him to play and enjoy taking us along with him. EEAAO wasn’t aiming for Oscar glory initially…

[@cobot5784]

He’s such a positive person. I just want to watch all his future works!

[@deborahmallory3408]

A day later and I'm still crying... Im so very happy for him.. Goonies never say die

[@Missjunebugfreak]

In the past few years I've not really cared much about the Oscars or the winners but this time I was rooting so hard for Ke Huy Quan and Brendan Fraser to win. This man radiates so much genuine positivity and humility that you don't see in most Hollywood actors anymore. It's so refreshing to see someone win who is truly grateful for these opportunities. I wish him even more success because of this win.

[@djpegao]

The man never lost his inner child and it has pay immensely, he went through bad times but pushed through and had the support of his wife to continue pushing forward, and now here he is, again like a child full of joy and happiness for getting recognized.

[@ricklee3]

"goonies never die" The Goonies was and is the best Kids adventure ever made, there has been nothing as iconic and good since then

[@kevinp8108]

I feel bad for Corey Feldman after Quan mentioned his name. Feldman is another forgotten child actor who just needs a break like Quan has recently gotten.

[@ricklee3]

@@kevinp8108 not really he got into the drugs and debauchery lifestyle and ruined his own career. Ke Huy Quan was just never given a break for the color of his skin.

[@nicholasgarrick8855]

Ke Huy quan went from being out of the film industry for over a decade to giving an outstanding performance in EEAAO ,and winning an oscar!! He definitely deserves it ,and the award couldn't have gone to a nicer person honestly happy for him!

[@mikhailabdurrachman2443]

With all that talent he was ONLY in an independent film year 2002, after that he got no offer from Hollywood. That's some injustice alright

[@karenlin-mahar3403]

I’m SO SO happy! This award is perfection! He SO deserved this award. I am so touched by his story. It’s completely empowering. ❤

[@hellobecky84]

Same here

[@stevendunn2501]

I don't know if it's because I'm an 80s baby/90s kid that I feel so invested in his success and shine. It just feels good seeing him in his season of celebration.

[@theL81Again]

I love how you can hear his struggle and his gratitude in his voice. He deserves much success!

[@XchelzinNena]

All these stars like, Jennifer Coolidge, Brendan Fraser and Ke Huy Quran, who are making a comeback, truly deserve it!

[@JasonQiuMusic]

"So this is the famous room where all the winners come!" So adorable!

[@AlexZ-lc6nl]

Ke, immigrant to immigrant, your story resonates with me. I am not unemployed but I have not gotten my big -REAL- break yet. And it’s not like I’m inadequate, I’ve gotten interviews and have a top degree from a top university. I think for people like you and me, victory is that much sweeter because we struggle through the process of redemption and challenge to get to the top. So extremely proud of you. Teach a class on resilience, please. ❤

[@kevinp8108]

@AlexZ-Ic6nl - courage is not being of afraid of getting knocked down but rather having the courage to stand up to keep pushing forward.

[@annemacleod1421]

Ke Huy Quan’s answers keep coming back to his parents and family. They have truly anchored him plus (e is a man of gratitude. He has a lovely ebullient humble spirit. 🐑🐑🇳🇿🇳🇿NZ

[@Jumbaride]

He was one of my first childhood crushes. I am not Asian, but I definitely was an outsider in my community. I connected immediately with his kindness, joy, and spirit. I'm glad he did not lose that part of himself. Love you, Ke Huy Quan. And thank you for making me feel a little less alone.

[@travelgirlaileen2446]

Kindness is universal 🤍

[@Jumbaride]

@@travelgirlaileen2446 It definitely should be. 💙

[@stargazeronesixseven]

🙏 Short Round Forever! Goonies Forever! May Many Happy Good Blessings In Return To You! 🌷🌿🌏💜🕊

[@byrdiegrow7991]

I was in tears so many times during the Oscars. It was a beautiful night. The Inclusivity was what I needed to lift my spirit after all the hate in our country. Thank You All!

[@whataname01]

He's like a kid on christmas day that unwrapped the gift always wish and wanted.. CONGRATULATION !

[@JDMimeTHEFIRST]

I loved how he shouted out Chunk. I grew up watching him and immediately recognized his voice in the trailer for the movie. I’m glad I saw it in the theatres a year ago. It was so fun and original. Not many movies like that on the big screen.

[@JDMimeTHEFIRST]

Also, bother your agent. They work for you.

[@Theatress09]

He is a pure, positive spirit. He LOVES his job, and is so gracious to everyone. I am so happy for him and Michelle for their well deserved victories of all the awards this year. Everything Everywhere All at Once is indeed a masterpiece and it is clear that everyone involved loved working together and worked hard as a team to make it.

[@psychesam9]

Representation matters! Hearing his story is inspiring: that his family came to America as refugees, of his struggles in the industry, etc. We need more diversity and inclusion in all industries. So glad he went back to his birth name! He seems authentically himself. His energy, his enthusiasm and his humbleness are so great to see.

[@kevinerose]

So great to hear his voice again. He has such an iconic voice amongst the actors.

[@brentwalker8596]

No doubt. Quite by chance I watched EEAAO yesterday and as soon as his character spoke I had this nostalgic reaction. Then, after watching his acceptance speech, I realized that he was that child actor we all loved. What an amazing story.

[@shantitakemoto1058]

Yes! He’s so much the same, just a wonderful adult now! ❤

[@_marimopeace]

7:46 and now hopefully with EEAAO's historic wins there might be some more opportunities out there for other struggling Asian actors in the future 😭when I think about how ppl like James Hong and Harry Shum Jr. literally just took "all the Asian cameo/supporting roles" possible it makes me so happy that Ke got to make his dream a reality and can now establish his own niche in Hollywood

[@serendipityshopnyc]

I hope Ke Huy Quan has six good roles on his agent's desk by morning! What a sweetheart!

[@omahaknight]

"Goonies never say die." And with that, he became legend.

[@supreme3376]

YES

[@FarlesNCharge]

This Gentleman was a big part of my childhood. So proud of him.

[@dylen2086]

Can tell from the end of speech that he want nothing more but a job. Congrats to him for win an Oscar

[@gtjr.1138]

5:14 GOT ME! Congrats to this amazing man.

[@MagnumSkyWolf]

Got back into acting three years ago and now won an Oscar. Also, Brendan was practically cast out of Hollywood and also comes back and wins

[@sabyasachidas2804]

Academy could not have gotten it right more than this year .. what an incredible list of winners ! #asianexcellence

[@dreia2405]

As a kid he was so talented such a charismatic kid, it's good to know he found his way to become a great adult actor, Congratulations Ke, well deserved

[@donny1960]

We forget how hard the life of an Actor can be. So many rejections and disappointments. And only a few really get famous and wealthy. i wish him luck. His energy is infectious.

[@angijac18]

Don’t worry Ke, your father is sooooo proud of you Ke. He’s looking down smiling from ear to ear, like we all are. 🖤

[@ConsilienceDVO]

" We're Family forever, Goonies never say die" Is this greatest thing ever. Got me having all kinds of feels.

[@hotbodtz]

Best Authentic Personality award should go to Ke Huy Quan.

[@OusaKhun]

When Ke said "Goonies never say die." Man, the feels. Congrats Ke Hy Quan!

[@roldanflynn4531]

I love how this man’s personality and inner being has never changed despite hardships and challenges that slowed him down. I love this for him!!!

[@justchaz]

I watched Indiana Jones when I was a kid. He was so memorable and funny! Too bad Hollywood ignored that but we millennial kids that he was awesome. We always say Dr. Jones! Dr. Jones! a lot in school

[@sifisobande8597]

His boyish exuberance is such a joy to watch. what an amazing person he is!!!

[@Veeisforvictory]

He’s so humble and deserving of this award

[@aimakichan]

I love listening to him speak (his speeches, interviews, etc.) - he moves me to tears every time. You can tell he's such a genuine person. I am not only so happy about the Asian representation with this win (and all the other accolades for this film with Michelle, Stephanie, etc.), I'm so over the moon for Ke Huy Quan, personally. How special and wonderful it is to be recognized for his work and to have won an Academy Award credited with his birth name!

[@LoveLakesAndStuff]

Wow. This man brings me to tears every time I hear him. So proud of him!!

[@Patricia-vd9xh]

May Ke Huy Quan’s agent realize how many Americans would love to see much more of this wonderful actor and dear man. ❤

[@masternickTV]

faith restored on the Oscars after Brendan and Ke's win

[@picard1233]

Omg his energy is infectious. Never change your identity for acceptance. Be who you are. Be a good person like Ke Huy Quan

[@allio3459]

GOONIES NEVER SAY DIE!!! I LOVE HOW HE SAID ITTTT

[@Tranceplant82]

His joy is INFECTUOUS. You can't help but being happy because he's happy. Wow. I love this! ❤❤ So well deserved!

[@therainmaker8946]

he should won every year an oscar because of his energy just like this..🤨

[@armyfan7288]

congratulations 🎉 you deserve it! Much blessings! From Nova Scotia Canada 🇨🇦 ❤️

[@tarnishedofnorenown387]

You better give that man another Oscar winning role Mr. Agent!

[@dodywidodo9433]

His energy just like Short Round! Amazing!

[@Yooncelebtarot]

Please give this man a freaking job! We need to see him more. I will watch anything he’s in.

[@gladecornelius]

Ke Huay Quan is like the Asian version of a relative of mine. I love this relative to death and I miss him so watching Ke Huay Quan is like seeing him.

[@ndepodcastlifechangingmome9019]

He looks exactly like my dad that’s why i love this man even more

[@gregdark5203]

Perhaps the single most liked/loved Academy Award winner since Tom Hanks and Roberto Benigni. You truly cannot help just being so happy for him. I watched him when he was a child. Never would I have thought he would ever achieve this. And can a person be any more humble than he is? This was a terrific win and one of the reasons I love watching the Academy Awards.

[@kevm4597]

Ke is a good example of Asian actors in Hollywood. Very talent but just cannot get a role he deserve. I am so happy for his achievement. Hope this is just the first step of greater success and opportunity for many Asian actors and actress like Ke

[@Golgibaby]

Authenticity and gratitude. Not a performance--his appreciation is sincere (e.g. his embraces of his other colleagues). I think this is why his journey resonates with many--many people know the origins of his story from his 80's movies and 90's movie. This is what inspiration affords: his success, in light of his struggle, allows him to communicates his truth positively. Great lessons.

[@sheehanbelleca]

I'm a gen z who hasn't seen Indiana Jones and EEAAO but I've been bawling my eyes out since last night. I feel like he's my big brother, and I want to celebrate with him. Such a humble guy!!!

[@angelazaccaria3733]

I want to give him a big hug! He's a darling.

[@heatherfeather7199]

Ke… you are the brightest ray of sunshine ☀️

[@namphan813]

"Goonies never say die" gawd.. that got me

[@deborahhernandez1505]

All of his Goonies reached out!!!! GOONIES...FOREVER!!!

[@dl9786]

What??? This is the kid from the Goonies and Indiana Jones! Wow! Congrats 🙌

[@aminoacid5]

Imagine a dark theater screen... Candle light brightens ever so slowly... hearing the voice "Dr. Jones".... The camera pans to Ke Huy Quan. And you hear the voice "Yes, Short Round?" and the music of Indiana Jones play.

[@jona95107]

🎈I seriously cried tears of joy today ! I love his positive energy and his stories so so much ! His comeback story has given such beautiful hopes & inspiration to those who feel like they are underdogs in life ! ⭐⭐⭐ His story as a refugee has also taught me so so much about being humble , and the importance of remembering our roots . The movie “Everything Everywhere” is just so so beautifully made! I still can’t put it down for so long ! I can't..I can't.... Go Ke Huy Quan ! You have changed my life too!!! !⭐⭐⭐

[@jesstrombley9257]

The sweetest man alive is this guy!!!

[@johokeen1]

This is a clip well worth watching. The positive energy, the beaming smiles of Mr Quan, his joyful laughter and the gratitude.... I am truly happy for him. I wish a resurgence of his acting career from here on. Surely he must have at least few good works in him yet.🌟

[@retro_collector8245]

What a great man and role model he is 🤩👏🍾

[@electricdreamer]

We all want a Short Round spin-off, make it happen!

[@Mattyhull1]

I love how himble he is!!! He's like a kid in a candy store and he likes to express his gratitude!!

[@sarabi3827]

I remember watching 'The Goonies' and 'Indiana Jones The Temple of Doom'. Such classic movies. Ke was awesome in both movies, he brought a cheeky, fun and charismatic persona to both movies and was, lovable in them both. Generations of movie goers have loved his performances, in both movies. They are memorable, iconic legends which have never been recreated. Hollywood has I feel lost the ability to make such awesome films that are, feel good and genuinely memorable. I lost count how many hundreds of times I have watched these movies. First with my sibling and then nephews and nieces. Ke Quan is truly deserving of his role in 'Everything Everywhere All At Once'. But more importantly it's about time someone recognised the man's genuine humility, his empathy and creative genius. He is humble and few actors have that today and never forgetting where you came from. It is in our DNA, I'm South Asian and can relate to how children are bought up in Asia. The love for his parents and the sacrifices his mom made, I cried thought-out his speech. Ke enjoy this moment brother you truly are a joy to watch and "Goonies never say die!" May success and prosperity pave your path always.

[@keikei3301]

Omg he is the best man and most deserving! What a true ray of sunshine 🌞

[@mayrar2321]

My grandparents also came here to give my mother and her siblings a better life. They worked hard and took no hand outs. It's so frustrating to see how much hate ppl spread and forget how their ancestors came here for a better life as well. None of us are native to this land but native Americans so let's cont to spread love and acceptance ❤

[@tinytanks]

oh my guy, he is still the same kid that we all came to love in the 80's.

[@vg4life]

How the hell can anyone not like this guy? 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@keithbell9348]

Gnerally speaking, if it had been some other seasoned actor or actress jumping around on stage holding that statue, I would roll my eyes. But hey it's Key. I am clapping for him. Way to go! Great job! Let him have his moment he well deserves it!

[@667mumble]

He's so humble and it's such a wonderful and beautiful comeback story. WAY TO GO KE HUY QUAN!!!

[@aliinuijake5191]

That gave me GOOSEBUMPS "GOONIES NEVER SAY DIE!"

[@reginaalmaraz7561]

So happy for him! He deserves it! I never forgot about you! Indiana Jones! 🤗💖👍

[@maryzylema9699]

He was one if my favorites in the Goonies . I am so happy for him that he still has a great career and he won a Oscar. Now he will be able to really shine !😊💖

[@dianabraley8307]

I love his energy - Ke is like a kid in a candy store. I love him!

[@MrsMommaHarley]

God I so love that he won an oscar. Bless him.

[@Djexoticdancing69]

Humbleness is priceless. What a beautiful overwhelming experience for this man Has been and I am glad to be alive and be able to Experience Through the eyes of the media as well.👏👌👍🙏💝💯

[@WireZombie253]

He is such a joy to watch. I hope he gets more great roles from this moment on. He truly deserves it and has absolutely earned it.

[@mcflyfarm]

That man has captured the hearts of an entire nation. Key Huy Quan represents the rest of us.

[@kienvo]

This guy is the most honest actor that I have ever seen. I am so proud of his humble Vietnamese root.

[@NiyomKhun]

Ke is the guy who never forget his root and never forget to respect his parents by using his original given name. So important for a person to remember and accept their own root and culture and shine with it. Bravo Ke! I was a big fan when you were in Indiana Jones and now I am still a big fan of you watching you shine through EEAIO. Can't wait for your next projects