Introduction
Brian Tee has firmly established himself as a dynamic and versatile actor in Hollywood, earning widespread acclaim for his ability to bring depth and intensity to every role he portrays. From high-octane action films to gripping television dramas, Tee’s impressive body of work showcases his talent and adaptability. This article explores his most notable movies and TV shows, shedding light on his journey, career milestones, and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Brian Tee Biography
| Field | Details |
| Full Name | Jae-Beom Takata |
| Stage Name | Brian Tee |
| Date of Birth | March 15, 1977 |
| Place of Birth | Okinawa, Japan |
| Nationality | American (of Korean-Japanese descent) |
| Education | University of California, Berkeley (Theater and Performing Arts) |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years Active | 2000–present |
| Famous for | DK in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Dr. Ethan Choi in Chicago Med |
| Spouse | Mirelly Taylor (Actress) |
| Children | 1 (Madelyn Skyler Takata) |
| Notable Films | Tokyo Drift, The Wolverine, Jurassic World |
| Notable TV Shows | Chicago Med, Grimm, Teen Wolf |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (1.80 m) |
| Weight | 75 kg (165 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Net Worth (2024) | Estimated at $4 million |
| Ethnicity | Korean-Japanese |
| Known for | Intense, action-oriented roles in movies and TV |
| Hobbies | Family time, martial arts, sports |
| Social Media Presence | Active on Instagram and Twitter |
Early Life and Background
Born in Okinawa, Japan, on March 15, 1977, Brian Tee moved to Southern California at the age of two. Growing up in Hacienda Heights, California, he was exposed to a rich blend of cultures, thanks to his Korean father and Japanese mother. Initially passionate about sports, he later discovered his love for acting during high school, prompting him to pursue a degree in theater at the University of California, Berkeley.
Brian Tee’s Notable Movies
The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (2006)
Brian Tee gained widespread recognition for his role as Takashi “DK” (Drift King) in Tokyo Drift. As the film’s primary antagonist, he showcased his ability to embody a fierce and formidable presence, making him one of the most memorable villains in the Fast & Furious franchise.
The Wolverine (2013)
In The Wolverine, Tee played Noburo Mori, a corrupt minister who becomes entangled in Wolverine’s complex battle in Japan. His performance added an extra layer of intrigue to the film’s rich storyline.
Jurassic World (2015)
Brian Tee appeared as Katashi Hamada, a security team leader at Jurassic World’s park, in this blockbuster hit. Though his screen time was brief, his role was pivotal in highlighting the risks involved in containing the park’s genetically engineered dinosaurs.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Out of the Shadows (2016)
Tee took on the iconic role of Shredder, the formidable leader of the Foot Clan. His commanding presence and martial arts skills made him a compelling and intimidating villain.
Other Notable Films
- We Were Soldiers (2002) – PFC Jimmy Nakayama
- Austin Powers in Goldmember (2002) – Japanese Pedestrian
- The Beautiful Ones (2017) – Gabriel Tancredi
Brian Tee’s Best TV Shows
Chicago Med (2015–2023)
Tee’s portrayal of Dr. Ethan Choi in Chicago Med solidified his reputation as a skilled dramatic actor. His character, a military veteran turned ER doctor, brought emotional depth and complexity to the long-running NBC medical drama.
Chicago Fire & Chicago P.D. (2015–2023)
As part of NBC’s interconnected Chicago franchise, Tee reprised his role as Dr. Ethan Choi in multiple crossovers, further endearing himself to fans of the series.
Grimm (2014)
Tee played Akira Kimura, a ruthless and enigmatic character in the supernatural drama Grimm. His performance added an intriguing dimension to the series’ mythology.
Teen Wolf (2011–2017)
In Teen Wolf, Tee portrayed an assassin in Season 4, proving his versatility in blending action with psychological depth.
Other Notable TV Appearances
- Hawaii Five-0 (2014) – Kono’s love interest
- Burn Notice (2010) – Guest role in “Blind Spot”
- Crash (2008–2009) – Eddie Choi (recurring role)
Brian Tee’s Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
| Height | 6 feet (183 cm) |
| Weight | 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Body Type | Athletic |
| Distinct Features | Strong jawline, charismatic smile |
Personal Life: Wife, Family, and Interests
Brian Tee is married to actress Mirelly Taylor, and together they share a daughter, Madelyn Skyler Takata. He often shares glimpses of his family life on social media, showcasing their close bond. In addition to acting, Tee is passionate about martial arts, fitness, and philanthropy, dedicating time to various charitable causes.
Future Plans and Career Aspirations
As he continues his Hollywood journey, Brian Tee aims to expand his creative horizons by exploring directing and producing. His passion for storytelling and commitment to diversity in entertainment make him an influential figure in the industry. Additionally, he remains dedicated to challenging roles that push his artistic boundaries.
Fun Facts About Brian Tee
- Multilingual: Fluent in English and Japanese.
- Sports Enthusiast: Excelled in football during high school.
- Martial Arts Skills: Incorporates combat training into his action roles.
- Cultural Heritage: Proudly embraces his Korean and Japanese roots.
- Behind the Camera: Interested in producing and directing films in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Brian Tee married to?
Brian Tee is married to actress Mirelly Taylor. They have a daughter, Madelyn Skyler Takata.
What are Brian Tee’s most notable roles?
He is best known for playing DK in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, Noburo Mori in The Wolverine, and Dr. Ethan Choi in Chicago Med.
What is Brian Tee’s educational background?
He attended the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a degree in theater and performing arts.
Has Brian Tee appeared in other TV shows besides Chicago Med?
Yes, he has had roles in Grimm, Hawaii Five-0, Teen Wolf, and Crash, among others.
Conclusion
Brian Tee’s career is a testament to his talent, versatility, and dedication to his craft. With an impressive filmography spanning action-packed blockbusters and emotionally driven TV dramas, he continues to captivate audiences worldwide. As he explores new opportunities in acting and production, his influence in the entertainment industry is set to grow even further.