Brian Tee, born Jaebeom Takata, is a celebrated Japanese-American actor whose journey from Okinawa to Hollywood embodies the immigrant success story. Known for his compelling role as Dr. Ethan Choi in Chicago Med, Tee has built a remarkable career since 2000, with standout performances in films like The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift and Jurassic World. This article explores Brian Tee’s net worth, wife, married life, children, height, weight, age, salary, and more, offering fresh insights and updated details for fans searching for a deeper understanding of his life. With a focus on his cultural impact and personal resilience, we provide a unique perspective enriched with industry context and personal anecdotes.
Who is Brian Tee? A Journey from Okinawa to Hollywood
Brian Tee, born on March 15, 1977, in Okinawa, Japan, is a 47-year-old actor who moved to Hacienda Heights, California, at age two. Growing up in a Korean-Japanese-American family, he embraced American culture while staying connected to his heritage. His stage name, Brian Tee, was adopted after facing casting challenges due to his original name, Jaebeom Takata, which some directors linked to his Japanese roots. At Glen A. Wilson High School, Tee excelled as a football team captain and Associated Student Body president, balancing academics with a job at Blackjack Pizza. His passion for performance led him to the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned a theater and performing arts degree, setting the foundation for his Hollywood career.
Brian Tee’s Career: From Small Roles to Stardom
Tee’s acting career began in 2000 with a role in The Pretender as a male agent. Early on, he faced rejections and cultural biases, including a Korean director questioning his Japanese surname, prompting the name change to Brian Tee. This opened doors to roles in Starship Troopers 2: Hero of the Federation (2004), We Were Soldiers (2002), The Wolverine (2013), and Jurassic World (2015). Since 2015, Tee has starred as Dr. Ethan Choi in Chicago Med, portraying a Navy veteran-turned-doctor with emotional depth. As of 2025, he continues in the series, recently directing episodes, showcasing his versatility. His success reflects a broader trend of Asian-American actors breaking barriers, with industry data showing a 20% rise in Asian-American TV leads since 2015.
Brian Tee Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Brian Tee’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at $4 million, up from earlier reports of $3 million, driven by his consistent work in Chicago Med and past films. His salary per episode of Chicago Med is estimated at $20,000–$40,000, aligning with industry standards for established TV actors. Additional income comes from endorsements and directing. Tee’s financial growth mirrors his career resilience, moving from modest roles to a stable TV contract. Compared to peers like Daniel Henney ($5 million net worth), Tee’s wealth reflects a focus on long-term TV projects, showcasing the value of consistent roles in building sustainable wealth.
Brian Tee’s Married Life: Wife and Children
Brian Tee is married to Mirelly Taylor, a Mexican-American actress known for Lost and SEAL Team. The couple met through their acting careers and married in a private ceremony. Their marriage, spanning over a decade, is marked by mutual support and shared passion for the arts. They have a daughter, Madelyn Skyler Takata, born on August 10, 2015, whom Tee describes as a “calm and joyful” child. Mirelly Taylor, born in Guadalajara, Mexico, moved to the U.S. at 11 and graduated from Methodist University. Their strong bond is evident on social media, where they share family milestones. In a 2023 interview, Tee said, “Mirelly and Madelyn are my anchors. Coming home to them grounds me.”
Brian Tee’s Height, Weight, and Physical Presence
Brian Tee’s height is 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm), and his weight is approximately 78 kg (172 lbs). His athletic build, developed during his high school football days, enhances his on-screen presence in roles like Dr. Choi and action heroes. Tee maintains his physique through strength training and cardio, tailored to his demanding roles. Fans on platforms like X praise his commanding presence in Chicago Med, noting how his height and demeanor add authenticity to his portrayal of authoritative yet empathetic characters.
Brian Tee’s Dating History and Personal Life
Before marrying Mirelly Taylor, **ofac Brian Tee’s dating history remains private, with no public records of past romances or controversies. His focus on career and family reflects a low-key approach, prioritizing meaningful connections over tabloid attention. This discretion aligns with cultural values from his Asian heritage, emphasizing family and reputation. Tee’s private nature contrasts with the often-publicized lives of Hollywood stars, making his personal life a testament to grounded priorities.
Brian Tee Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jaebeom Takata |
| Stage Name | Brian Tee |
| Date of Birth | March 15, 1977 |
| Age (2025) | 47 years |
| Birthplace | Okinawa, Japan |
| Nationality | Japanese-American |
| Ethnicity | Korean-Japanese |
| Education | University of California, Berkeley (Theater) |
| Occupation | Actor, Director |
| Years Active | 2000–present |
| Notable Roles | Dr. Ethan Choi (Chicago Med), The Wolverine |
| Spouse | Mirelly Taylor |
| Children | Madelyn Skyler Takata (born 2015) |
| Height | 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm) |
| Weight | 78 kg (172 lbs) |
| Net Worth (2025) | $4 million |
| Salary (per episode) | $20,000–$40,000 (estimated) |
| Social Media | Instagram, X |
| Wikipedia | Brian Tee Wiki |
Unique Angle: Brian Tee’s Impact on Asian-American Representation
Tee’s career is a beacon for Asian-American representation in Hollywood, challenging stereotypes through complex characters. His role as Dr. Choi in Chicago Med portrays a multifaceted Asian-American professional, blending strength and vulnerability. By directing episodes, Tee shapes narratives behind the camera, a rare feat for Asian-American actors. A 2024 USC Annenberg study notes only 7% of TV directors are of Asian descent, underscoring Tee’s impact. As a fan, I’ve seen how his portrayal resonates with diverse audiences, reflecting real-world challenges like PTSD and leadership faced by minorities in high-stakes roles.
Conclusion: Brian Tee’s Legacy and Future
Brian Tee has evolved from a young immigrant to a Hollywood mainstay, with a net worth of $4 million, a thriving marriage to Mirelly Taylor, and a beloved daughter, Madelyn. His height, weight, and charisma enhance his versatility, while his age of 47 marks a seasoned career with growth potential. As he continues in Chicago Med and explores directing, Tee’s influence on entertainment and representation will expand. For more, visit Brian Tee’s Wikipedia or follow him on Instagram and X.
