Michael Paul Chan

Born:June 26, 1950

Place of Birth:San Francisco, California, USA

Known For:Acting

Biography

Michael Paul Chan, a seasoned American television and film actor, has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry with his versatile performances across various platforms. Known for his ability to embody a wide range of characters, Chan has showcased his talent in both comedic and dramatic roles, captivating audiences with his nuanced portrayals.

With a career spanning decades, Chan has graced the screens in memorable roles such as Judge Lionel Ping on Arrested Development, Detective Michael Tao on The Closer, and the voice of Jimmy Ho on The PJ's. His contribution to popular shows like The Simpsons and Bones further solidifies his status as a respected actor in the television landscape.

Beyond television, Chan has also made his mark in film, with notable appearances in movies such as Batman & Robin, Falling Down, and Spy Game. His ability to bring authenticity and depth to his characters has earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan following.

Born in San Francisco, California, Chan's heritage as a third-generation Chinese American has influenced both his personal life and his career. As a founding member of the Asian American Theater Company, he has been a trailblazer in promoting diversity and representation in the entertainment industry.

Off-screen, Chan leads a private life, balancing his successful career with his role as a devoted husband and father. His commitment to his craft and his dedication to his family are a testament to his character both on and off the screen.

With each role he undertakes, Chan brings a level of professionalism and authenticity that sets him apart in the competitive world of acting. His ability to seamlessly transition between genres and characters speaks to his talent and versatility as an actor.

Whether he is portraying a stern judge, a dedicated detective, or a wise mentor, Chan's performances resonate with audiences, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll. His presence in both television and film continues to be a testament to his enduring talent and passion for storytelling.

As he continues to take on new projects and challenge himself with diverse roles, Michael Paul Chan remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, admired for his craft, respected for his dedication, and cherished for the memorable characters he has brought to life on screen.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Goonies

Data's Father

1985

Young teenager Mikey Walsh finds an old treasure map in his father's attic. Hoping to save their homes from demolition, Mikey and his friends Data, Chunk, and Mouth set off on a quest to find the secret stash of Pirate One-Eyed Willie.

Batman Forever

Executive

1995

In the looming shadows of Gotham City, two villainous souls devise twin schemes of revenge against the city's dark guardian. Two-Face, disfigured by chance and fueled by vengeance, is obsessed with destroying Batman, while the Riddler, a disillusioned genius, pursues the destruction of billionaire Bruce Wayne. Together they've hatched a plot to absorb and control the minds of all of Gotham City's residents, and only Batman and his new partner, Robin, can stop them! But the Dark Knight is hindered by a mystery from his own childhood. He must hope that a new found love can help him overcome the incident that made him what he is. In the end, he must decide: will he be Batman—forever?

Batman & Robin

Observatory Scientist

1997

Batman and Robin deal with relationship issues while preventing Mr. Freeze and Poison Ivy from attacking Gotham City.

Falling Down

Mr. Lee

1993

An ordinary man frustrated with the various flaws he sees in society begins to psychotically and violently lash out against them.

U.S. Marshals

Chen

1998

U.S. Marshal Sam Gerard is accompanying a plane load of convicts from Chicago to New York. The plane crashes spectacularly, and Mark Sheridan escapes. But when Diplomatic Security Agent John Royce is assigned to help Gerard recapture Sheridan, it becomes clear that Sheridan is more than just another murderer.

Spy Game

Vincent Vy Ngo

2001

On the day of his retirement, a veteran CIA agent learns that his former protégé has been arrested in China, is sentenced to die the next morning in Beijing, and that the CIA is considering letting that happen to avoid an international scandal.

The Insider

Norman the Cameraman

1999

A research chemist comes under personal and professional attack when he decides to appear in a 60 Minutes exposé on Big Tobacco.

Thief

Waiter at Chinese Restaurant

1981

Frank is an expert professional safecracker, specialized in high-profile diamond heists. He plans to use his ill-gotten income to retire from crime and build a nice life for himself complete with a home, wife and kids. To accelerate the process, he signs on with a top gangster for a big score.

Maverick

Riverboat Poker Player

1994

Bret Maverick is a gambler who would rather con someone than fight them, and needs an additional $3k in order to enter a winner-takes-all poker game beginning in a few days. He joins forces with a woman with a marvelous Southern accent, and the two try and enter the game.

The Glass House

Mr. Kim

2001

When Ruby and Rhett's parents are killed in a car accident, their carefree teenage lives are suddenly shattered. Moving to an incredible house in Malibu with the Glasses', old friends of the family, seems to be the beginning of a new life for them.

Masked and Anonymous

Guard

2003

A nation wracked with civil war and social unrest anticipates a giant charity concert, organized by deceptive promoter Uncle Sweetheart, who plans on raking in huge sums for himself from the event. Headlining is legendary musician Jack Fate, whose prison time is cut short with Sweetheart's help. Meanwhile, journalist Tom Friend investigates the corrupt concert and sets out to unmask the truth to the public.

Between Borders

The Judge

2025

In a crumbling Soviet Union, the Petrosyan family finds themselves as outcasts—wherever they go. Their Armenian heritage marks them for discrimination, first in their home country of Azerbaijan and then in Russia. After finding their eternal hope through a church planted by American missionaries, the hostility of everyday life pushes them to seek refuge in the United States. In the shadow of exile, hope became their home. Based on a riveting true story of faith and hope set amidst great oppression.