How Sandra Oh Got Awkwafina to Laugh on ‘Quiz Lady’: By Rubbing Her Toes in Her Face

Sometimes, the best remedy for a tough day is a hearty laugh, and Sandra Oh and Awkwafina’s Hulu film, “Quiz Lady,” provides just that. This movie, in which they both star and produce, showcases Oh’s impressive comedic talent, demonstrating that she can deliver genuine laughter.

Nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Television Movie, “Quiz Lady” features Oh and Awkwafina as polar opposite sisters—one a carefree spirit with no regard for seriousness, the other a meticulous trivia enthusiast. Oh, who previously earned accolades for her intense role in “Killing Eve,” welcomed the opportunity to explore a more humorous genre.

“After working on something so dark as ‘Killing Eve,’ going into comedy was incredibly refreshing,” Oh notes. She adds that sometimes even the most refined audiences crave a good laugh.

In her role, Oh embraces physical comedy, including a scene where she humorously confronts a driver while jaywalking. Initially considered for the eccentric character Jenny, Oh requested to switch roles with Awkwafina, leading to her portrayal of Jenny. This role switch, with Oh playing against type and Awkwafina as Anne, enhances the film’s comedic impact.

The authentic chemistry between the sisters is enhanced by the actresses’ genuine off-screen friendship. Oh emphasizes their strong bond, recalling how their shared laughter and close interactions in scenes like those at the Ben Franklin Inn added to the film’s humor. “I’d playfully touch Nora’s face with my toes to make her laugh,” Oh shares, capturing the purpose of their sisterly connection.