Early Life and Education
Growing up in Brea, California, Sekiya Billman was raised by her parents, Tomoko and Larry Billman, alongside her sister, Saadia Billman. She is of a multicultural background, her mother being Japanese, and her father American.
Sekiya pursued higher education at the prestigious University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she honed her skills and deepened her love for performance. UCLA’s strong theater and film programs may have played a role in shaping her early career aspirations.
Sekiya Billman’s Career in Acting, Theater, and Business
Sekiya’s most notable on-screen appearance was in Barry Levinson’s “Liberty Heights” (1999), a coming-of-age drama set in 1950s Baltimore. Though her filmography is relatively short, her passion for acting extended beyond the screen. She became an active member of Mr. Miyagi’s Theater Company in New York City, a collective dedicated to producing innovative and culturally rich performances.
While acting was a significant part of her life, Sekiya also embraced a career in business. She currently serves as the Office Manager at BAM Design, a New York-based architectural firm.
Family Life and Marriage to Actor Hoon Lee
In 2008, Sekiya Billman married Hoon Lee, a talented actor known for his versatile performances in television, film, and theater. The couple tied the knot on October 26 in an intimate ceremony, blending their shared love for the arts and family.
Hoon Lee, born in 1973, has made a name for himself with standout roles in “Banshee,” “Warrior,” and “The Blacklist.” He has also lent his voice to animated series like “Avatar: The Last Airbender” (as the iconic Fire Lord Ozai) and “Archer.” Beyond screen acting, Hoon is an accomplished stage performer, having appeared in Broadway productions such as “Pacific Overtures” and “The King and I.”
Sekiya and Hoon’s marriage reflects a partnership built on mutual respect for each other’s careers and personal passions. Though they keep their private life relatively low-key, their shared connection to theater and performance suggests a deep artistic bond.
A Work Life Balance
Sekiya Billman’s life is a testament to the beauty of balancing multiple passions. Whether through her work in film, her contributions to theater, or her role in the architectural world, she has carved out a unique path. Meanwhile, her marriage to Hoon Lee adds another layer of artistic synergy to her story.
Though she may not seek the spotlight, Sekiya’s journey, from Los Angeles to New York, and from acting to business, shows that a fulfilling life doesn’t always follow a single trajectory. Instead, it’s shaped by curiosity, dedication, and the willingness to embrace different roles.
