She is of Finnish (father) and Japanese (mother) heritage.
She has hazel eyes and wears brown contact lenses to
"appear" more Asian for her parts.
Has an adopted daughter, Penelope Hill (b. 2000).
She became a well-known and acclaimed actress working with the famed "Asian American Theatre Company" in San Francisco, California.
Was listed as a potential nominee on the 2004 Razzie Award nominating
ballot. She was suggested in the Worst Supporting Actress category for
her performance in the film The Cat in the Hat (2003); however, she failed to receive a
nomination.