Eric Michael Zee

Eric Michael Zee is an American actor and playwright who’s been in the entertainment industry for over 30 years. His creative talents also shine as a playwright, where he explores stories that celebrate Asian-American identity. 

Zee has turned his professional experience not just to perform but to provide space for marginalized voices. He's also lovingly known as the dedicated husband of Mulan and The Mandalorian star Ming-Na Wen. Eric's journey is one of art, culture, and dedication that makes him a quiet but strong character in Hollywood's emerging story. 

A Thirty-Year Romance 

Eric and Ming-Na Wen have been one of the more durable couples in Hollywood since they wed on June 16, 1995. Their romance is a sweet affirmation of love and commitment in an industry with a reputation for whirlwind romances. 

In 2025, they celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary by reposing for their wedding portrait—aw, cute. Their relationship seems to be founded on respect and shared interests. The couple has two children: Michaela, born in 2000, and Cooper, born in 2005. In spite of busy lifestyles, they've managed to give importance to family. 

Eric and Ming-Na won't over-share, but if they do share something regarding their significant other or their children, the fans love the genuine affection that radiates from them. Through all the roller coasters of Hollywood show business, their marriage has remained strong, and they are a precious diamond in Hollywood and a living legend of abiding love. 

From California Kid to the Big Stage 

Eric Michael Zee was born on February 5, 1966, in sunny California. Little is known about his childhood life, but his working life began in the late 1980s. One of his earliest engagements was working at The Bronx Zoo in 1987, and that paved the way for more time on screen. 

Later, he went on to study theater arts, reportedly at the University of Southern California, where he was able to refine his skills. That groundwork gave him the foundation to thrive as an actor and as a screenwriter. What was originally a love of telling stories became a career that involved screen, stage, and even scriptwriting. 

Since those early beginnings, Erichas has constructed a unique career in entertainment. In secondary roles or laboring behind the scenes, his dedication to his craft has never wavered and has been intensely personal in its motivation to present stories that truly count. 

Family First, Fame Second 

Eric Michael Zee keeps his personal life just that—personal. What we do know is that the largest source of pride and joy in his life is his family. He and Ming-Na Wen have a close-knit family with their two kids, Michaela and Cooper. 

While Eric doesn't share much, the family does share sweet moments occasionally during holidays or milestones. Unlike other celebrities, Eric has avoided making details about his large family—siblings, cousins, or close friends—public. This might be a choice to keep those closest to him away from the public scene. 

Despite their fame, the Zee-Wen family seems humble, affectionate, and extremely close. Their camaraderie makes us forget that there is a human being behind each celebrity who cares for his or her people more than any red carpet. 

A Career Based on Character and Culture 

Eric Michael Zee's career resume is a mix of in-front-of-the-camera activity and behind-the-scenes creativity. He's perhaps best known for Independence Day, in which he was a field reporter, and as a regular Peter Chow in Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman. 

Fans of martial arts will know him too from Fist of Legend as a voice-over. But acting is not all of Eric's creative life. He's also a successful writer whose plays use the stage to tell deeper stories. His work, including Exit the Dragon, breaks down Asian-American stereotypes and investigates Asian-American identity. 

From a cameo on TV shows like The Single Guy to a full-length play, Eric brings thoughtful, purposeful writing. He's that Renaissance kind of artist who isn't interested in stardom but writes because he loves to tell stories and affect people. 

Outside of the Limelight: Hobbies & Interests 

While Eric Michael Zee is likely best known for acting and writing, his interest goes even further. He's a creative type who enjoys writing songs, writing scene scripts, and exploring social issues in theater. 

His experience as a playwright is especially near and dear to his heart, generally based on his cultural heritage and desire for more diversity. He's also attempted producing and has worked on several smaller film productions behind the scenes. 

Eric's creative energy drives him to seek out new ways of storytelling—whether that's writing an engaging monologue or scoring a film. His pursuits evidence that he's not just a performer, however, but an avid creator who is passionate about every part of the arts. For Eric, creativity isn't an occupation—it's a way of life. 

What's Next for Eric Zee? 

Eric Michael Zee's future is bright. With his vast experience as a writer, producer, and actor, he's in a prime position to work on new pieces that introduce us to new voices. He is able to contribute more now as a behind-the-scenes artist or as a mentor, especially in Asian-American theater and film. 

His voice as a playwright has already begun creating waves, and there is room galore for it to grow. Eric's reflective style and unassuming leadership make him an artist young artists can aspire to. 

Whatever he does next, returns to the stage, leaps into a movie, or writes another compelling play, it's evident that his work will long bear significance. His future seems less about pursuing fame and more about creating a legacy through storytelling that includes everyone. 

A Quietly Successful Life 

Eric Michael Zee is not one of Hollywood's brightest stars, perhaps, but his career has been successful enough to bring him both personal satisfaction and financial security. He hasn't disclosed his net worth exactly, but with years of steady work in film, television, and on stage, it is reasonable to assume that he is doing very well. 

Combined with his partnership with brilliant Ming-Na Wen, and they've attained a life of balance between wealth and creativity. Cash would probably come from acting work, royalties on plays he's written, and production or composition work he's earned in the process. 

Although he is not yelling his victory from the rooftops, Eric's story shows that with talent, hard work, and dedication, it is possible to build a sustainable business while also facilitating an enjoyable life.