Born in Shanghai, China, to a banker father and a painter mother, Irene's family relocated to Hong Kong, where she attended parochial school and developed a passion for ballet. At the tender age of 12, the family made the bold decision to immigrate to New York City, marking a significant turning point in Irene's life.
She continued her education at George Washington HS and Quintano's School for young professionals, where she had the opportunity to hone her skills in ballet and jazz at the prestigious Carnegie Hall. Her early years were marked by a strong foundation in the arts, laying the groundwork for a successful career in the entertainment industry.
Irene's breakthrough role came at the tender age of 12, when she was cast as a teenage dancer in the 1961 film "Flower Drum Song," directed by Henry Koster. This early exposure not only showcased her impressive dancing skills but also earned her a speaking role in Koster's subsequent film, "Take Her, She's Mine," starring the legendary James Stewart. This role marked the beginning of Irene's acting career, which would span an impressive four decades.
Throughout her illustrious career, Irene has appeared in an impressive 50 TV series and 32 feature films, effortlessly transitioning between playing Chinese roles and characters originally written for other ethnicities. Her remarkable versatility was showcased in films such as "Down & Out in Beverly Hills," "Caprice," and "Paper Tiger," demonstrating her ability to adapt to a wide range of roles.
In addition to her on-screen accomplishments, Irene has also made a name for herself as a successful realtor in Beverly Hills, a career she has pursued for the past two decades. Her passion for helping others extends beyond the realm of real estate, as she is also a certified Bikram yoga instructor for the Beverly Hills Department of Parks.
Irene's remarkable journey has been marked by her ability to balance her creative pursuits with her passion for personal growth and well-being. She is a true testament to the power of determination and hard work, inspiring countless individuals with her remarkable story.
