Yao
Biography
Yao is a Malaysian actor of Chinese and Filipino descent. He graduated from the Lasalle College of the Arts in 2015. Yao has been prominent in Singapore's theatre and film scene, earning three Best Actor nominations in The Straits Times Life Theatre Awards. He won the Best Actor award in 2018 for his performance in Hand To God by Singapore Repertory Theatre. Yao holds a Master of Fine Arts degree from the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale University, which he obtained in 2023. He is currently based in New York. Yao is known for his role as Bo Chow in the movie Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler.
Career overview
Yao is a Malaysian actor of Chinese and Filipino descent. He graduated from the Lasalle College of the Arts in 2015. Yao has been prominent in Singapore's theatre and film scene, earning multiple Best Actor nominations in The Straits Times Life Theatre Awards.
He won a Best Actor award in 2018 for his performance in Hand To God by Singapore Repertory Theatre. Yao's work in the theatre scene has contributed to his recognition in the industry.
Yao has also pursued further education, obtaining a Master of Fine Arts degree from the David Geffen School of Drama at Yale University in Connecticut in 2023. He currently resides in New York. Yao's acting career has been marked by his performances in various productions, including his role as Bo Chow in the 2025 movie Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler.
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Frequent co-stars
Career timeline
Full Filmography
9 titles- John Rambo (2027)
- Sinners (2025) as Bo Chow
- #LookAtMe (2022) as Sean Marzuki / Ricky Marzuki
- Tiong Bahru Social Club (2020) as Ah Bee
- Wheely (2018) as Ben / Taxi 1 (voice)
- Gold Mountain
- Rooster
- Biz of Viz
- Better Life
Frequently Asked Questions
What movies or TV shows is Yao best known for?
Yao is widely recognized for notable roles and projects including Sinners (2025).
How many credits does Yao have?
Yao has accumulated over 9 film and television credits across a career spanning from 2018 to 2027.
What is Yao's background in cinema and television?
Yao is a Malaysian actor of Chinese and Filipino descent. He graduated from the Lasalle College of the Arts in 2015. Yao has been prominent in Singapore's theatre and film scene, earning three Best Actor nominations in The Straits Times Life Theatre Awards. He won the Best Actor award in 2018 for his performance in Han...