Phillipa Soo is an accomplished actress and singer, best known for her iconic role as Eliza Schuyler Hamilton in the hit Broadway musical Hamilton. Her talent, charisma, and voice have captivated audiences, but beyond her performances, many are curious about Phillipa Soo’s ethnicity, heritage, and family background. In this article, we’ll explore her cultural roots and how her background has shaped her career and identity.
Phillipa Soo Bio

Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Phillipa Anne Soo |
Date of Birth | May 31, 1990 |
Place of Birth | Libertyville, Illinois, USA |
Profession | Actress, Singer |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | Mixed (Chinese and European) |
Education | Juilliard School (BFA) |
Famous Role | Eliza Schuyler Hamilton in Hamilton |
Phillipa Soo Ethnicity is Mixed (Chinese and European)

Phillipa Soo’s ethnicity is mixed, with her father being of Chinese descent and her mother of European heritage (Scottish and French). This blend of cultural backgrounds has deeply influenced Phillipa’s worldview and artistic expression.
Growing up in a household that celebrated both her Chinese and European roots, she experienced the richness of diversity from a young age.
Her Chinese heritage comes from her father, and she has often spoken about the influence of her Chinese grandparents in her upbringing. Her grandmother, in particular, helped instill in her a sense of cultural pride, introducing her to Chinese traditions, food, and family values.
On her mother’s side, Phillipa embraced her European background, which includes Scottish and French lineage.
Phillipa’s mixed ethnicity has played a significant role in her identity as an actress. In interviews, she has expressed how her background allows her to connect with diverse characters and stories.
Her role as Eliza Hamilton in Hamilton is a testament to the inclusive, multicultural nature of modern theater, where actors from all backgrounds bring history to life. For many fans, Phillipa Soo represents the future of American theater, where diversity is embraced and celebrated.
Family Background of Phillipa Soo
Phillipa Soo was raised in Libertyville, Illinois, in a family that embraced cultural diversity. Her father is of Chinese descent, and her mother has Scottish and French heritage. While specific details about her extended family are limited, Phillipa has often spoken about how her multicultural background has influenced her personally and professionally.
Her father’s side of the family introduced her to Chinese traditions, and Phillipa has shared that her grandparents played an important role in her early life. Her grandmother, especially, was a significant figure who helped pass down cultural practices and values from their Chinese roots.
Although she grew up in a predominantly American environment, Soo’s upbringing was enriched by this mix of cultural influences, allowing her to view the world through a broad, multicultural lens.
About Phillipa Soo Family
Family Member | Name |
---|---|
Father | Chinese-American (Name not known) |
Mother | European descent (Name not known) |
Spouse | Steven Pasquale (Actor) |
Phillipa Soo is married to actor Steven Pasquale, known for his roles in TV and theater. While there is limited public information regarding her parents’ names, her family has always supported her journey into the performing arts.
She has spoken about the influence her multicultural background has had on her approach to acting and storytelling.
Phillipa Soo Career
Phillipa Soo’s career began shortly after she graduated from the prestigious Juilliard School in 2012. She first gained recognition in the Off-Broadway production Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 as Natasha Rostova, a performance that earned her critical acclaim.
However, it was her role as Eliza Schuyler Hamilton in Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking musical Hamilton that catapulted her to stardom. Her portrayal of Eliza, the wife of founding father Alexander Hamilton, earned her a Tony Award nomination and solidified her place as one of Broadway’s brightest stars.
In addition to her stage work, Phillipa has appeared in various TV and film projects. She played pivotal roles in productions like The Parisian Woman on Broadway and has voiced characters in animated features. Her versatility as an actress and singer has made her one of the most sought-after talents in theater today.
Phillipa continues to explore diverse roles, reflecting both her cultural heritage and her passion for storytelling. She’s not only an actress but also an advocate for greater representation and diversity in the arts, particularly for Asian-American performers.
More Info About Phillipa Soo

Phillipa Soo’s impact on the world of theater and entertainment is significant, not just because of her talent but because of what she represents as a performer from a mixed ethnic background.
Her success in Hamilton, a musical that redefined the boundaries of casting and storytelling in American theater, has made her a symbol of progress in the industry. Through her performances, she has demonstrated the power of inclusivity and diversity in storytelling, paving the way for future generations of actors.
In addition to her work on stage and screen, Phillipa is also an advocate for social causes, particularly those that focus on inclusion and diversity in the arts. She has used her platform to raise awareness about the importance of representation, especially for Asian-American actors who often face limited opportunities in mainstream entertainment.
As Phillipa Soo continues to build her career, she remains grounded in her heritage and values, always bringing authenticity to her roles. Her journey from a small town in Illinois to the heights of Broadway fame is an inspiring story of talent, hard work, and the embrace of her multicultural background.
As audiences eagerly await her future projects, one thing is clear: Phillipa Soo is a powerful force in the world of entertainment, and her influence will continue to grow in the years to come.