History of Ali Wong in Timeline
Ali Wong is an award-winning American comedian, actress, writer, producer, and director known for her stand-up specials "Baby Cobra", "Hard Knock Wife", and "Don Wong" on Netflix. She starred in and co-wrote the romantic comedy "Always Be My Maybe" and the Netflix series "Beef", the latter earning her two Golden Globe and two Primetime Emmy Awards, making her the first Asian woman to win a lead acting Emmy. Time magazine recognized her as one of the 100 Most Influential People in 2020 and 2023.
1960: Ali Wong's Mother Immigrates to the U.S.
In 1960, Ali Wong's mother, Tam "Tammy" Wong, emigrated from Huế, Vietnam, to the United States, where she worked as a social worker. This event played a significant role in shaping Ali Wong's family history and background.
April 19, 1982: Birth of Ali Wong
On April 19, 1982, Alexandra Dawn "Ali" Wong was born in San Francisco, California. This event marks the beginning of her life and journey to becoming a renowned comedian.
2000: High School Graduation and UCLA Enrollment
Ali Wong graduated from San Francisco University High School in 2000, where she held the position of student body class president. She then enrolled at UCLA, majoring in Asian-American studies. This event highlights her academic journey and leadership qualities.
2010: Ali Wong Meets Justin Hakuta
Ali Wong crossed paths with her future husband, entrepreneur Justin Hakuta, at a mutual friend's wedding in 2010. This event marked the beginning of their relationship.
2011: Passing of Ali Wong's Father
Ali Wong's father, Adolphus Wong, passed away in 2011. This event marked a significant personal loss in her life.
2011: Variety Names Ali Wong "One of the 10 Comics to Watch"
Ali Wong's rising talent in the comedy scene was recognized in 2011 when Variety named her one of the "10 Comics to Watch." This marked a turning point in her career, leading to increased visibility and opportunities.
2013: Television Appearances and Film Roles
In 2013, Ali Wong made notable television appearances on shows like VH1's "Best Week Ever" and MTV's "Hey Girl." She also starred in the film "Dealin' with Idiots," expanding her repertoire in both comedy and acting.
2014: Marriage of Ali Wong and Justin Hakuta
Ali Wong and Justin Hakuta married in 2014, solidifying their commitment to each other. This marked a significant personal milestone in their lives.
2014: Role in "Black Box" and "Inside Amy Schumer"
Ali Wong took on a recurring role as Dr. Lina Lark in the ABC medical drama series "Black Box" in 2014. She also made guest appearances in "Inside Amy Schumer," further demonstrating her range as an actress.
September 2015: Filming of "Baby Cobra"
In September 2015, Ali Wong filmed her groundbreaking stand-up special, "Baby Cobra," while seven months pregnant. This event showcased her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with audiences through humor and personal experiences.
2015: Writing for "Fresh Off the Boat"
In 2015, Ali Wong joined the writing team of the ABC sitcom "Fresh Off the Boat." Her contributions to the show, suggested by cast member Randall Park, highlighted her writing skills and comedic perspective.
September 11, 2016: New York Fashion Week Appearance
Ali Wong participated in New York Fashion Week on September 11, 2016, walking the runway for Opening Ceremony's show. This event highlighted her presence beyond the world of comedy and entertainment.
2016: Release of "Baby Cobra"
Ali Wong's breakout comedy special, "Baby Cobra," premiered on Netflix in 2016. This marked a significant career milestone, earning her widespread recognition.
2016: Release of "Baby Cobra" on Netflix
Ali Wong's stand-up special "Baby Cobra" premiered on Netflix on Mother's Day in 2016. This marked a pivotal moment in her career, garnering critical acclaim and establishing her as a leading voice in comedy.
2017: Filming of "Hard Knock Wife"
While seven months pregnant with her second child, Ali Wong filmed her second Netflix special, "Hard Knock Wife," in 2017 at the Winter Garden Theatre in Toronto. This showcased her dedication to her craft and her ability to find humor in the challenges of motherhood.
2018: Release of "Hard Knock Wife"
In 2018, Ali Wong released her second Netflix special, "Hard Knock Wife," further solidifying her comedic prowess.
2018: Release of "Hard Knock Wife" and Voice Acting Debut
Ali Wong's Netflix special "Hard Knock Wife" was released in 2018, further solidifying her comedic talent. She also made her voice acting debut in an episode of "OK K.O.! Let's Be Heroes," expanding her creative range.
October 15, 2019: Publication of "Dear Girls"
Ali Wong added 'author' to her list of accomplishments with the release of her book "Dear Girls: Intimate Tales, Untold Secrets and Advice for Living Your Best Life" on October 15, 2019. The book, a personal reflection and guide for her daughters, won the 2019 Goodreads Choice Award for Humor.
2019: Release of "Always Be My Maybe" and "Tuca & Bertie" Premiere
Ali Wong starred in the Netflix film "Always Be My Maybe" alongside Randall Park in 2019. The same year, she lent her voice to the animated sitcom "Tuca & Bertie," showcasing her versatility in both live-action and voice acting roles.
2019: Release of "Always Be My Maybe"
Ali Wong starred in, co-wrote, and produced the romantic comedy "Always Be My Maybe" in 2019, showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry.
2020: Recognized in Time's 100 Most Influential People
Ali Wong's impact on comedy and entertainment was acknowledged in 2020 when she was included in Time's 100 Most Influential People list.
2021: Conclusion of "American Housewife"
Ali Wong's role in the ABC sitcom "American Housewife" concluded in 2021. This marked the end of her time on the show, allowing her to pursue new projects and creative endeavors.
February 2022: Release of "Don Wong" on Netflix
Ali Wong's third Netflix comedy special, "Don Wong," premiered in February 2022, further solidifying her presence as a comedic force in the entertainment industry.
April 2022: Separation of Ali Wong and Justin Hakuta
In April 2022, Ali Wong and Justin Hakuta announced their separation, marking a significant change in their relationship. Despite the separation, they have stated they remain close friends.
2022: Brief Relationship with Bill Hader
Ali Wong and actor Bill Hader had a short-lived romantic relationship in late 2022. This marked a new chapter in her personal life.
2022: Release of "Don Wong"
Ali Wong's third Netflix special, "Don Wong," premiered in 2022, continuing her successful career in stand-up comedy.
2022: Conclusion of Voice Role in "Tuca & Bertie"
Ali Wong's voice acting role in the animated series "Tuca & Bertie" concluded in 2022. This marked the end of her time on the show, allowing her to focus on other projects and opportunities.
April 2023: Reconciliation with Bill Hader
After a brief separation, Ali Wong and Bill Hader rekindled their romance in April 2023, signifying a continuation of their relationship.
December 2023: Ali Wong Files for Divorce
Ali Wong officially filed for divorce from Justin Hakuta in December 2023, citing irreconcilable differences. This event marked the legal dissolution of their marriage.
2023: Premiere of "Beef" and Historic Award Wins
Ali Wong's performance in the 2023 Netflix series "Beef" garnered widespread critical acclaim and earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Miniseries or Television Film, making her the first actress of Asian descent to do so. Furthermore, she received a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie, a historic win as the first actress of Asian descent to receive a lead acting Emmy Award.
2023: Premiere of "Beef" and Award Recognition
In 2023, Ali Wong starred in the acclaimed Netflix series "Beef." Her performance earned her a Golden Globe Award and a Primetime Emmy Award, marking a historic achievement as the first Asian woman to win in their respective categories.
January 15, 2024: Public Appearance with Bill Hader
Ali Wong and Bill Hader attended the 75th Emmy Awards together on January 15, 2024, marking a public appearance as a couple.