Lee Sung Jin

Lee Sung Jin, also known as Sonny Lee, is a South Korean-American screenwriter, director, and showrunner recognized for his contributions to dark comedy and contemporary television. Lee wrote for series including "Undone," "Tuca & Bertie," "Dave," and "Silicon Valley" before establishing himself as a creator. He also worked as a staff writer and executive story editor for "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia," gaining experience with some of television's most distinctive comedic voices.

Lee is best known for the series "Beef" for Netflix and A24, starring Ali Wong and Steven Yeun. He has discussed how a road-rage incident in Los Angeles inspired the show, exploring themes of subjective worldviews and interpersonal conflict. "Beef" received critical acclaim as a dark comedy that examines how people relate through intense emotions and shared experiences. Lee served as director, executive producer, and showrunner on the series, at times directing remotely due to health protocols.

An Emmy Award winner and BAFTA nominee, Lee is the writer, creator, showrunner, and executive producer of "Beef." He made his directorial debut with the series finale "Figure of Light," which earned an Emmy Award for Outstanding Directing for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie. Lee received recognition for both directing and writing, and the series won the Emmy Award for Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series, among other honors. At the Golden Globes, "Beef" won in all nominated categories, including best limited series, best actor in a limited series, and best actress in a limited series.

Lee has spoken openly about the personal experiences that influenced "Beef," including themes of loneliness, depression, and mental health. He credits his therapist for support and has connected with viewers who relate to the show's exploration of mental health and shared human experiences. Beyond his screenwriting and directing work, Lee advocates for mental health awareness, personal growth, and empathy across cultural and social boundaries.

Lee has continued to develop "Beef," maintaining its core elements of engaging characters, unpredictable storytelling, and a blend of highbrow and pop-culture references. In addition to his television work, Lee contributed to the Marvel screenplay for "Thunderbolts*," demonstrating versatility across both prestige television and feature films. In public appearances, Lee discusses how the roles people play in daily life can create isolation, and how vulnerability fosters connection and empathy.