Lori Tan Chinn

Lori Tan Chinn made her Broadway debut in 1970 as Miss Higa Jiga in ‘Lovely Ladies, Kind Gentlemen,’ marking the beginning of a prolific career as an American actress, comedian, and versatile theater performer. An earlier member of the esteemed Katherine Dunham Company, she also performed African dance with Syvilla Fort. Demonstrating her versatile talent, Chinn earned a Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Resident Musical in 2003 for her portrayal of Bloody Mary in the TV movie ‘South Pacific’ (2001). Her early film work included supporting roles as a Vesta Rose Woman in ‘She-Devil’ (1989) and a bus driver in ‘What About Bob?’ (1991), followed by the restaurant owner in ‘Mickey Blue Eyes’ (1999).

Throughout her career, Chinn has actively supported fair wages and safe working conditions within the industry, working with organizations like Actors’ Equity Association. Chinn gained significant recognition for her role as Mei Chang in the critically acclaimed Netflix series ‘Orange Is the New Black,’ appearing in 27 episodes from 2013 to 2019. She further cemented her comedic presence with a starring role as Nora’s Grandma in the Comedy Central series ‘Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens,’ captivating audiences across 27 episodes from 2020 to 2023. Her television credits also include appearances in hit series such as ‘Roseanne’ (1990), ‘Law & Order’ (2000), and ‘Law & Order: Trial by Jury’ (2005), showcasing her range across dramatic and comedic genres.

The Underworld,’ further demonstrating her sustained demand across various platforms and genres.