Garrett Wang, born December 15, 1968, in Riverside, California, is an American
actor best known for portraying Ensign Harry Kim in Star Trek: Voyager. He has
also been active in science fiction conventions, hosting panels and advocating
for Asian-American representation in Hollywood.
Wang grew up in a Taiwanese-American family, moving frequently due to his
parents' careers. He attended kindergarten in Indiana, lived in Bermuda, then
moved to Memphis, Tennessee, before settling in California. He graduated from
Harding Academy High School in Memphis and later attended UCLA, where he studied
Asian studies with a focus on theater.
His
acting career began with guest roles in All-American Girl (1994) and Angry Café
(1995). In 1995, he was cast as Harry Kim, a Starfleet ensign, in Voyager,
appearing in all seven seasons. Despite his popularity, his character was never
promoted, which frustrated fans and cast members alike. Wang also petitioned to
direct an episode, but his request was denied, making him the only Star Trek
actor to be refused this opportunity.
Beyond
Star Trek, Wang appeared in Into the West (2005), Star Trek: Renegades (2015),
and voiced characters in Star Trek Online. He has been a regular convention
guest, hosting panels and interviewing Star Trek alumni. In 2010, he became the
director of Trek Track at Dragon Con, one of the largest sci-fi conventions.