Who is Sean Kaufman: The Rising Star Taking Hollywood by Storm
Sean Kaufman is a 23-year-old American actor who has captured audiences’ hearts through his breakout role as Steven Conklin in Amazon Prime Video’s hit series “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” Born on June 22, 2000, in New York, this Japanese-American actor has quickly become a fan favorite and an important voice for Asian representation in Hollywood.
Quick Facts About Sean Kaufman:
- Age: 23 years old (born June 22, 2000)
- Height: 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters)
- Education: LaGuardia High School (Drama Department) and Purchase College’s Acting Conservatory
- Most Notable Role: Steven Conklin in “The Summer I Turned Pretty” (2022-2023)
- Relationship Status: Dating co-star Minnie Mills for three years
- Social Media: 1.1 million Instagram followers (@sean.kauf)
- Other Credits: Manifest, FBI: Most Wanted, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
The New York native’s journey to stardom began with eight years of dedicated training – four years at LaGuardia High School’s drama department followed by another four years at Purchase College’s Acting Conservatory. His passion for acting stems from a deeply personal place, as he once shared: “Sean acts because he loves it. Because it reaches a part of him and so many others that is otherwise untouchable, and because it fills his heart in a way that has improved his life tenfold.”
What sets Sean apart isn’t just his acting talent, but his commitment to meaningful representation. As someone who looked up to Steven Yeun from “The Walking Dead,” Sean understands the power of seeing yourself reflected on screen. He hopes to inspire young Asian actors the same way Yeun inspired him.
Beyond his professional achievements, Sean brings authenticity to his roles through personal experience. As a real-life older brother, he naturally connects with his protective character Steven Conklin, making their sibling dynamic with Belly (Lola Tung) feel genuine and relatable.
The Rise of a New York Actor: From LaGuardia to Prime Video
Sean Kaufman’s rise to fame didn’t happen overnight. It began with a childhood realization that would change everything – he simply “sucked at playing cello in the 3rd grade.” This humorous admission partly sparked his journey toward acting, setting him on a path that would eventually lead to Prime Video and millions of fans worldwide.
Formative Years and Education
Growing up in New York City with his Japanese-American heritage, Sean Kaufman always felt the pull toward performance. His formal training started at LaGuardia High School, where he spent four intensive years in the drama department. This wasn’t just any high school – LaGuardia is known for shaping some of the industry’s brightest stars.
But Sean didn’t stop there. He continued his education at Purchase College’s Acting Conservatory, dedicating another four years to perfecting his craft. That’s eight years of serious training before he even stepped onto a professional set. The Purchase College program pushed him to grow not just as an actor, but as an artist who understood the deeper meaning of his work.
What drives Sean isn’t fame or fortune – it’s something much deeper. He’s shared that acting “reaches a part of him and so many others that is otherwise untouchable” and “fills his heart in a way that has improved his life tenfold.” This genuine passion shows in every role he takes on.
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Early Career and Notable Roles
Before becoming Steven Conklin, Sean Kaufman built his resume the old-fashioned way – one small role at a time. His television journey began with Law & Order: Special Victims Unit in 2018, where he played “Grieving Male Student #1.” It might not sound glamorous, but it was his first taste of professional television.
The roles grew from there. He appeared in Manifest from 2021-2023 as Kevin, landing two episodes that showed his range. Then came FBI: Most Wanted in 2022, where he portrayed Eric Fontaine, proving he could handle the intensity of procedural drama. More recently, he’s appeared in Walker and the short film Fire Burning in 2024.
Each of these early credits taught Sean something new about the industry. Working on established shows like these gave him invaluable experience with professional crews, tight schedules, and the high standards expected in television. He learned to be versatile, adapting to different genres and character types with ease.
What’s impressive is how consistently Sean landed roles in respected, well-produced series. These weren’t just any shows – they were the kind of programs that demand excellence from their guest stars. This early success hinted at the breakout role that was waiting just around the corner.
Sean Kaufman’s full filmography on IMDb
A Deep Dive into Sean Kaufman’s Breakout Role in “The Summer I Turned Pretty”
When Sean Kaufman landed the role of Steven Conklin in Amazon Prime Video’s “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” he had no idea it would completely change his life. Based on Jenny Han’s beloved book series, this coming-of-age story follows Belly and her complicated relationships with the Fisher brothers. But it’s Sean’s portrayal of Belly’s protective older brother that has stolen hearts and made him a household name.
The show became a massive hit for Prime Video, with Sean Kaufman appearing in all 16 episodes across the first two seasons. His natural charm and authentic performance have earned him over 1.1 million Instagram followers and a devoted fanbase who can’t get enough of Steven’s mix of snark and sweetness.
How Sean Kaufman Describes Steven Conklin
Sean Kaufman has a refreshingly honest way of describing his character that makes you love Steven even more. “Steven is a lovable S.O.B.,” he says with a laugh. “He’s the protective older brother to Belly, and although he can often come off as overprotective, it is only ever from a place of love, a place only siblings can understand.”
What makes Steven so compelling is that he’s not perfect. He’s snarky, smart, and a little vain – but he’s also still figuring out how to be an adult. Sean loves this about his character because it makes him real. “My favorite quality about Steven is that he makes mistakes and always learns from them,” he explains.
This growth from boy to man is what resonates with audiences. We’ve all been there – making mistakes, learning hard lessons, and slowly figuring out who we want to be. Steven’s journey feels authentic because Sean brings such genuine emotion to those moments of growth and self-findy.
Relating to the Role: The Real-Life Older Brother
One of the reasons Sean Kaufman’s performance feels so natural is because he’s drawing from real experience. As an older brother himself, he understands exactly where Steven’s protectiveness comes from. “I’m an older brother in real life, so I feel most similar to Steven in that protectiveness,” he shares. “I love my sister to death, and there’s nothing I wouldn’t do for her.”
That genuine sibling love translates beautifully on screen, especially in his scenes with Lola Tung, who plays Belly. Their brother-sister dynamic feels so authentic because Sean is channeling his real feelings for his own sister.
Sean also brings his own sense of humor to Steven. “I can also relate to Steven in our humor,” he admits. “We are both very funny people and, more importantly, just love to make the people around us laugh.” This shared trait adds another layer of authenticity to his performance and explains why Steven’s one-liners hit so perfectly.
The Future of Steven and Belly’s Relationship
Looking ahead, Sean Kaufman has thoughtful insights about how Steven and Belly’s relationship will evolve as they both grow up. “I see their relationship only getting stronger as they get older,” he predicts. With Steven heading off to college and Belly finishing high school, distance might actually bring them closer together.
Sean speaks from personal experience when he says, “I know it wasn’t until I went to college that my real-life sister and I connected to one another.” There’s something about growing up and gaining perspective that helps siblings realize how precious their bond really is.
This mature understanding of sibling relationships adds depth to Sean’s portrayal and hints at exciting developments for future seasons. Plus, as he admits with characteristic warmth, “I love Lola Tung so much, so I hope they get closer so I can act with her more.”
The cast dynamics and fan reception have been overwhelmingly positive, with viewers praising the authentic family relationships that make the show so compelling. Sean’s portrayal of Steven has become a fan favorite, proving that sometimes the best performances come from the heart.
Beyond the Screen: Kaufman on Representation and Real-Life Issues
Sean Kaufman isn’t just another pretty face on television – he’s using his growing platform to tackle important conversations about representation and social justice. At only 23, he speaks with the wisdom of someone who truly understands the weight of being visible in Hollywood as a young Asian-American actor.
What makes Sean’s approach so refreshing is his genuine authenticity. He doesn’t shy away from difficult topics or give polished, media-trained responses. Instead, he shares his real experiences and hopes, making him a relatable voice for young viewers who might be facing similar challenges.
The Importance of Asian Representation for Sean Kaufman
The moment that changed everything for Sean Kaufman happened while he was watching TV at home. “I remember being a young Asian kid watching The Walking Dead on my TV and thinking, ‘Wow, that person looks like me,'” he recalls about seeing Steven Yeun on screen.
At the time, Sean didn’t fully grasp how powerful that moment was. But now, sitting in his own spotlight, he understands exactly what that representation meant. “I didn’t understand how important that was to me in my journey to becoming an actor, but now being in a similar position to where he once was, I can understand how impactful it is to look on the TV and see someone who looks like you.”
That single moment of recognition gave Sean something precious: hope and pride that he could actually make it as an actor. It wasn’t just about seeing another Asian face on screen – it was about seeing possibilities he hadn’t imagined before.
Now that he’s the one on television screens across the country, Sean feels the responsibility deeply. “All I hope is to be able to create that same sense of hope in other young Asian kids out there,” he explains. It’s a beautiful full-circle moment that shows how representation creates ripple effects across generations.
His gratitude to Steven Yeun is heartfelt and specific: “Steven Yeun, thank you for everything. Thank you for creating inspiration in places that were once thought impossible; thank you for allowing others to follow in your footsteps simply by just doing.” This acknowledgment shows Sean’s understanding that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply exist in spaces where people like you haven’t been seen before.
Tackling Racism On-Screen and Its Message
One of the most powerful aspects of Sean’s work on “The Summer I Turned Pretty” is how the show doesn’t shy away from addressing racism through Steven’s storyline. When asked how he would handle racist situations like his character faces, Sean gives an answer that’s both vulnerable and empowering.
“The unfortunate reality of being a minority in this country is that you are dealing with many racial hardships, whether verbal and physical assaults or microaggressions,” he explains matter-of-factly. It’s not a comfortable truth, but it’s one that needs to be spoken.
Sean gets brutally honest about his own experiences: “I have had my fair share of both. In the past, when racist attacks towards me have happened, I have always done exactly the thing you hope you don’t do; I freeze. I freeze and laugh along or try to ignore it. I do whatever it takes to make the situation disappear without confronting it.”
This admission takes courage. Many people in his position might give a more polished response about always standing up for themselves. But Sean’s honesty about freezing up and trying to make situations disappear resonates with anyone who’s ever been caught off-guard by prejudice.
However, Sean sees his role as Steven – and his platform as an actor – as an opportunity to inspire a different response in young viewers. “I hope that all the young Asian kids watching this show realize that they don’t have to put up with the attacks that my mother and I have had to endure,” he says with genuine passion.
His message is clear and empowering: “I hope that by bringing to light these issues, even in what’s supposed to be a light YA show, people can understand these types of racist aggression can happen anywhere and at any time. It is okay not to put up with it; we are past the age of having to shove it to the side and move on.”
This approach transforms “The Summer I Turned Pretty” from just another teen drama into something more meaningful. By addressing racism head-on, Sean and the show’s creators are giving young viewers permission to not tolerate aggression and to demand better treatment. It’s exactly the kind of message that can change how a generation responds to prejudice.
Personal Life, Hobbies, and Fun Facts
When he’s not bringing Steven Conklin to life on screen, Sean Kaufman enjoys a wonderfully normal life filled with love, laughter, and plenty of athletic trips. His genuine personality and down-to-earth approach to fame make him incredibly relatable to fans who see him as more than just another teen heartthrob.
Relationship with Minnie Mills
The heart of Sean’s personal life is his sweet relationship with Minnie Mills, his co-star who plays Shayla in “The Summer I Turned Pretty.” Their love story reads like something straight out of a romantic comedy – two actors meeting on set and falling head over heels for each other. After three years together, they’ve proven that some Hollywood romances really do have staying power.
Recently, the couple treated themselves to a luxurious getaway in Cancun, bringing along fellow cast member Chris Briney and his girlfriend Isabel Machado. Their four-day vacation was a perfect blend of trip and relaxation, featuring everything from paddle-boarding and kayaking to spa treatments and exploring a floating water park.
What makes their relationship even more endearing is how they share their culinary trips. During their Cancun trip, Sean and Minnie indulged in modern Mexican cuisine that would make any food lover jealous. They savored spicy lime-marinated cactus, fresh shrimp tostadas, rich salmon mole, and hearty beef casserole, finishing with decadent caramel cake and chocolate mousse. Their evening entertainment included laser tag and bowling, showing they’re not afraid to get competitive and silly together.
Sean Kaufman’s official Instagram page
Interests Outside of Acting
Sean Kaufman describes himself as “a very athletic, sporty person,” and this passion for physical activity brings him genuine joy both on and off set. During the filming of the first season of “The Summer I Turned Pretty,” the entire cast caught volleyball fever, and Sean hopes to keep that tradition alive in future seasons.
His love for sports creates some of his happiest moments. “The opportunity to go play pick-up basketball or volleyball or go down to a baseball field and have a catch with my co-stars Chris Briney and David Iacono gives me such joy,” he explains with infectious enthusiasm. It’s clear that these simple pleasures – throwing a ball around with friends, diving for a volleyball, shooting hoops – keep him grounded and connected to his roots.
Sean’s athletic interests also reflect his team-oriented personality, which likely contributes to the incredible chemistry viewers see among the cast. His goal for summer activities is refreshingly straightforward: “I’d like to really get back into sports.” This simple statement reveals someone who values friendship, fun, and staying active – qualities that make him genuinely likeable both on and off screen.
The fact that Sean finds such joy in these everyday activities shows fans a side of him that’s completely separate from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. He’s just a 23-year-old guy who loves hanging out with his friends, staying active, and enjoying good food with the people he cares about.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sean Kaufman
How old is Sean Kaufman?
Sean Kaufman is 23 years old, having been born on June 22, 2000. This makes him a Cancer by birth sign, which explains some of his naturally protective and caring personality traits that shine through in his role as Steven Conklin.
Being born in 2000 means Sean grew up as a true digital native – he came of age alongside social media platforms and streaming services like Prime Video. This generational perspective gives him an intuitive understanding of how to connect with modern audiences, which partly explains his rapid rise to fame and his impressive social media following.
How tall is Sean Kaufman?
Standing at an impressive 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters), Sean Kaufman has the kind of height that naturally commands attention both on and off screen. His tall stature works perfectly for his character Steven Conklin, giving him that protective older brother presence that feels authentic and believable.
This height also contributes to his athletic abilities, which he frequently mentions as one of his favorite pastimes. Whether he’s playing volleyball with his castmates or shooting hoops with Chris Briney and David Iacono, Sean’s height gives him a natural advantage in the sports he loves.
What is Sean Kaufman’s relationship status?
Sean Kaufman has been happily dating his “The Summer I Turned Pretty” co-star Minnie Mills for three years now. Their relationship is one of those sweet Hollywood success stories where two actors met on set and developed a genuine connection that extended far beyond their professional work.
Minnie plays Shayla in the series, and their real-life chemistry has only added to the authenticity of the show’s relationships. The couple isn’t shy about sharing glimpses of their life together, from romantic vacations in Cancun to casual moments with their castmates. Their recent luxury getaway included paddle-boarding, spa treatments, and plenty of quality time with fellow cast members Chris Briney and Isabel Machado.
What makes their relationship particularly endearing to fans is how grounded and normal it seems despite their rising fame. They clearly enjoy each other’s company and share similar interests, making them one of young Hollywood’s most beloved couples.
Conclusion
Sean Kaufman’s story is one that reminds us why we love following rising stars in entertainment. From his humble beginnings as a student who admittedly “sucked at playing cello” to becoming a beloved face on Amazon Prime Video, his journey feels both inspiring and refreshingly real.
What strikes us most about Sean is how he balances being a talented actor with being a genuinely thoughtful person. His eight years of training at LaGuardia High School and Purchase College in New York City laid the foundation, but it’s his authentic approach to his craft that has made Steven Conklin such a memorable character. He doesn’t just play an older brother – he is an older brother, and that lived experience shines through every protective moment and snarky comment.
His commitment to Asian representation goes beyond just landing roles. When Sean talks about seeing Steven Yeun on “The Walking Dead” and thinking “that person looks like me,” he captures something powerful about the importance of visibility in media. Now, as someone with 1.1 million Instagram followers and a hit show under his belt, he’s paying that inspiration forward for the next generation.
The fact that Sean tackles serious issues like racism while maintaining his humor and relatability shows a maturity that’s rare in young Hollywood. His willingness to be vulnerable about his own experiences – from freezing up during racist encounters to learning from his character’s mistakes – makes him someone fans can genuinely connect with.
His three-year relationship with co-star Minnie Mills adds a sweet romantic element to his story, while his love for volleyball and pick-up basketball with castmates Chris Briney and David Iacono shows he hasn’t let fame change his down-to-earth personality. At 23, he’s already proving that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of authenticity.
As we continue covering emerging talent here at The Dining Destination, Sean Kaufman represents exactly the kind of multi-dimensional star we love to follow. His journey from New York City student to Prime Video sensation proves that with genuine passion, solid training, and staying true to your values, you can build something meaningful in this industry.
