Harry Shum Jr., born on April 28, 1982, in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica, is a talented actor, dancer, and choreographer known for his diverse roles in film and television. Shum’s family moved to San Francisco, California, when he was six years old, where he began pursuing his passion for dance from a young age.
Shum gained widespread recognition for his role as Mike Chang in the hit television series “Glee.” His character, a talented dancer and member of the glee club, showcased Shum’s exceptional dance skills and charisma, earning him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
Prior to his breakout role on “Glee,” Shum built a successful career as a professional dancer and choreographer. He has worked with renowned artists such as Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Mariah Carey, and has appeared in numerous music videos and commercials.
In addition to his work on screen and stage, Shum has also ventured into the world of film, appearing in a variety of roles across different genres. He gained attention for his portrayal of Magnus Bane, a powerful warlock, in the fantasy television series “Shadowhunters,” based on the popular book series “The Mortal Instruments” by Cassandra Clare.
Throughout his career, Harry Shum Jr. has been praised for his versatility as an artist, seamlessly transitioning between acting, dancing, and choreography. His dedication to his craft, combined with his magnetic presence and undeniable talent, has solidified his status as a respected and beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Whether captivating audiences with his dynamic dance moves or delivering compelling performances on screen, Shum continues to captivate audiences around the world with his unique blend of skill and charm.

Harry Shum Jr. (Wikimedia)
Let’s take a look at these 12 interesting facts about Harry Shum Jr. to know more about him.
- Early Life in Costa Rica: Harry Shum Jr. was born in Puerto Limón, Costa Rica, to Chinese descent parents. He spent the first six years of his life in Costa Rica before his family relocated to San Francisco, California.
- Dance Background: Shum began studying dance at a young age and trained in various styles, including hip-hop, ballet, and jazz. He became particularly skilled in breakdancing and gained recognition in the dance community for his talents.
- Step Up 2: The Streets: Before his breakthrough in acting, Shum gained attention for his role as Cable in the 2008 dance film “Step Up 2: The Streets.” His impressive dance performances in the movie showcased his talent to a wider audience.
- Glee: Shum rose to prominence for his portrayal of Mike Chang, a talented dancer and member of the glee club, in the musical television series “Glee.” He appeared in over 90 episodes throughout the show’s six-season run.
- Professional Dancer: Prior to his acting career, Shum worked as a professional dancer and choreographer. He performed with various artists and groups, including touring with Beyoncé as a backup dancer.
- YouTube Channel: Shum runs a YouTube channel where he shares dance videos, behind-the-scenes footage, and vlogs. He has amassed a large following on the platform, showcasing his creativity and passion for dance.
- Role in “Crazy Rich Asians”: Shum had a supporting role in the 2018 romantic comedy film “Crazy Rich Asians,” based on the bestselling novel by Kevin Kwan. He portrayed Charlie Wu, a former flame of one of the main characters.
- Voice Acting: Shum has lent his voice to various animated projects, including the role of Prince Roderick in the animated series “The Adventures of Puss in Boots.”
- Marriage and Family: Shum married his longtime girlfriend, Filipino-American actress and dancer Shelby Rabara, in 2015. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Xia, in 2019.
- Asian-American Representation: Shum is an advocate for Asian-American representation in the entertainment industry. He has spoken out about the importance of diverse representation in media and has used his platform to promote inclusivity and diversity.
- Multilingual: Shum is fluent in several languages, including English, Spanish, and Chinese. His multicultural background has influenced his perspective on art and storytelling.
- Philanthropy: Shum is involved in various charitable causes and organizations, including those focused on education and environmental conservation. He actively uses his platform to raise awareness and support for important social issues.
Harry Shum Jr. stands as a multifaceted talent whose journey from a gifted dancer to a celebrated actor has captivated audiences around the world. His magnetic presence on screen, coupled with his exceptional dance skills and advocacy for diversity and inclusion, has made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. From his breakout role in “Glee” to his diverse filmography encompassing dance films, television series, and voice acting roles, Shum continues to leave a lasting impact on audiences of all ages.
Beyond his artistic pursuits, Shum’s commitment to philanthropy and representation further underscores his status as not only a talented performer but also a compassionate advocate for positive change. With his infectious energy, undeniable talent, and dedication to meaningful storytelling, Harry Shum Jr. remains an influential force in the world of entertainment, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their passions and embrace their uniqueness.