Joan Chen

Joan Chen is a Chinese-American actress, film director, and screenwriter known for her versatility and captivating performances both in Hollywood and international cinema.

Chen starred in Dìdi, a 2024 American coming-of-age comedy-drama film, which she proclaimed was her "career renaissance." She also starred the miniseries "A Murder at the End of the World," and the television series, "Heart."

Born in Shanghai, China, Chen first gained fame in her native country as a teenager for her role in the film "Little Flower" (1979), which earned her the Best Actress award at the Hundred Flowers Awards, one of China’s most prestigious film honors. Her early success made her a celebrated figure in Chinese cinema.

In the 1980s, Chen moved to the United States to pursue a career in Hollywood. She achieved international fame with her role as the Empress in Bernardo Bertolucci’s epic film "The Last Emperor" (1987), which won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture. This role catapulted her into the global spotlight and led to numerous roles in American films and television. Chen is also well known for her portrayal of Jocelyn 'Josie' Packard in the cult TV series "Twin Peaks" (1990–1991), a role that showcased her range and introduced her to a wider American audience.

Chen is a director and writer. Her directorial debut, "Xiu Xiu: The Sent-Down Girl" (1998), received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including the Best Director award at the Golden Horse Film Festival. The film tells a poignant story set during the Chinese Cultural Revolution and was banned in China due to its sensitive subject matter. Chen's has an ability to navigate both acting and directing across different cultures and languages.