Lori Tan Chinn, born in Seattle, Washington, is a multifaceted talent renowned for her extensive contributions to theater, film, and television. With a career spanning decades, Lori began her journey as a self-taught actor, dancer, singer, and musician. Her breakout came in 1970 when she landed the lead comedic role of Miss Higa Jiga in the Broadway show Lovely Ladies, Kind Gentlemen, after being plucked from the chorus.
On Broadway and off-Broadway stages, Lori has graced productions like the original 1987 Broadway run of M. Butterfly, G. R. Point, Peking Man, and North Atlantic. Notably, she is celebrated for her portrayal of Bloody Mary, earning the Helen Hayes Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Musical.
In film, Lori’s career includes roles in diverse projects such as Author! Author!, She-Devil alongside Roseanne Barr, What About Bob?, Glengarry Glen Ross, and Mickey Blue Eyes, where her memorable scene as a persistent restaurant owner left a lasting comedic impression.
Television audiences know Lori from appearances in Spin City, Law & Order, and the acclaimed series Orange is the New Black, where she portrayed the quirky and unpredictable Mei Chang. Her performance garnered widespread acclaim, establishing her as a fan favorite. Post-Orange is the New Black, Lori continued to shine in roles such as Grandma in Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens, showcasing her versatility and comedic prowess on screen.