From Killing Fields Survivor to Oscar Winner: The Haing S. Ngor Story
Haing S. Ngor was a Cambodian doctor who survived the Khmer Rouge’s brutal regime. After enduring unimaginable hardships, he fled to the U.S. and unexpectedly became an actor. Ngor’s first role was in “The Killing Fields” (1984), where he portrayed journalist Dith Pran, a part that mirrored his own experiences. His authentic performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, making him one of the few non-professional actors to win an Oscar. Beyond acting, Ngor was a passionate advocate for human rights, using his platform to raise awareness about Cambodia’s genocide. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1996 when he was murdered outside his Los Angeles home. Ngor’s legacy endures through his contributions to film and his relentless pursuit of justice for his homeland.