Tzi Ma was born in Hong Kong, the first of eight children. His film career includes major roles in the films The Quiet American and the remake of The Ladykillers as well as appearances in Asian American independent films The Sensei, Red Doors, Catfish in Black Bean Sauce and Baby. He is recognized for his role as Consul Han in Rush Hour and in the third installment, Rush Hour 3, as Ambassador Han. He is also known for his role as Cheng Zhi, the head of security for the Chinese Consulate (Los Angeles), on the TV series 24. He appeared in two episodes of season 4 and made an uncredited surprise return at the end of the final episode of season 5. He reprised his role again in the season premiere and the last eight episodes of season 6.
He also voiced Bàba Ling, Francine's adoptive father, in the animated TV series American Dad!. He has appeared in Akeelah and the Bee and thriller Dante's Peak. He also had a role in the first season of Martial Law as Lee "Nemesis" Hei, first major antagonist and Sammo Law's arch-nemesis. Ma's other TV credits include guest appearances on Walker, Texas Ranger, Law & Order, ER, Boomtown, Commander in Chief, Chicago Hope, The Unit, Star Trek: The Next Generation, L.A. Law, NYPD Blue, Millennium, Fringe, NCIS: Los Angeles, Hawaii Five-0, Lie to Me and The Cosby Show. Ma has received awards for his acting roles including the Cine Golden Eagle Award for being the Best Actor in "The Dance and The Railroad" and Garland Award for his acting in the "Flower Drum Song". Ma is among the actors, producers, and directors interviewed in the documentary The Slanted Screen (2006), directed by Jeff Adachi, about the representation of Asian and Asian American men in Hollywood.
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