Li Jun Li Biography: From Shanghai to Hollywood Star

Li Jun Li is a Chinese-American actress known for her magnetic screen presence, emotional depth, and diverse roles. From her breakout performance in South Pacific to major roles in Quantico, Babylon, and Sinners, Li Jun Li has steadily become one of Hollywood’s most exciting Asian-American stars.

Her journey—from Shanghai to South America, then to the U.S.—is as compelling as the roles she plays.

Who is Li Jun Li? Key Facts at a Glance

Li Jun Li was born in Shanghai, China, on November 6, 1983. Her mother is Suki Toki, and her father—an artist—has not been named publicly. Shortly after her birth, her family moved to South America, and later settled in New York City, USA.

She spent part of her childhood in Bogotá, Colombia, where she learned Spanish. She later learned English after moving to the U.S., making her fluent in three languages: Chinese, Spanish, and English.

A Shy Start, a Bold Dream

Growing up, Li Jun Li was shy and felt out of place, especially as an Asian child in Colombia. She was bullied and often lonely. But her quiet nature slowly gave way to creativity when she discovered the world of dance and performance.

Her parents enrolled her in classical Chinese dance classes, which sparked her love for the stage.

Education & Gateway to Acting

Li attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School in New York City, a prestigious school for performing arts. She was originally a dance major, but later transitioned to acting in college, after being inspired by school musicals.

“I loved it so much. That’s when I knew I had to act,” she told Screen Rant Plus in 2022.

Parental Resistance

Like many immigrant families, Li’s parents wanted her to pursue a stable career—law or medicine. However, seeing her passion and creativity, they eventually supported her dreams.

“They knew I had what my mom calls ‘artistic blood’,” she shared with Deadline in 2021.

Career Breakthrough

Stage Debut: South Pacific

Li Jun Li’s professional acting career began with the Tony Award-winning musical South Pacific at Lincoln Center in 2008. That performance opened doors for television and film.

TV Highlights

• Quantico (2016–2017) – Iris Chang, alongside Priyanka Chopra

• Chicago PD – Anna Tse / Julie Tay

• The Exorcist, Evil, and Damages

Film Highlights

• Babylon (2022) – Lady Fay Zhu, a powerful role in Damien Chazelle’s ambitious Hollywood epic

• Sinners (2025) – Grace Chow, a Chinese immigrant in the Mississippi Delta

Role in Sinners (2025)

In the show Sinners, Li Jun Li plays Grace Chow, a grocery store owner and community supporter. Her on-screen husband is Bo Chow, portrayed by actor Yao. The characters are central to the show’s emotional storyline, especially after Bo becomes a vampire, turning their lives upside down.

Net Worth & Fame

Li Jun Li’s exact net worth is not publicly confirmed, but her acting roles in big-budget films and popular series suggest she is financially successful. Her profile has risen significantly since Babylon, and her performances continue to earn critical praise.

Is Li Jun Li Married?

As of 2025, Li Jun Li is single. She keeps her personal life very private and has not publicly shared details about any past relationships.

Fun Facts About Li Jun Li

• 🎤 She can sing and took voice lessons during school.

• 🩰 She trained in both ballet and traditional Chinese dance.

• 👧 Her childhood idol was Lucy Liu, whom she saw on Ally McBeal.

• 🌍 She is a proud Asian-Latin-American woman with a diverse cultural identity.