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Entertainment • Actor

Jeri Ryan

Jeri Ryan is an American actress best known for portraying Seven of Nine in *Star Trek: Voyager* and later *Star Trek: Picard*.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Jeri Ryan is an American actress best known for portraying Seven of Nine in the *Star Trek* television franchise. She was born in Munich, West Germany, and is a former Miss Illinois pageant contestant who placed fourth in the 1990 Miss America pageant. Her television roles also include appearances on *Boston Public*, *Shark*, *Body of Proof*, and *Bosch*.

Early life and education

Ryan was born in Munich, West Germany, as Jeri Lynn Zimmermann. She attended Northwestern University and used pageants to help finance her education.

Acting career

Ryan is widely known for playing Seven of Nine on *Star Trek: Voyager* and later reprised the role in *Star Trek: Picard*. Beyond the *Star Trek* franchise, she appeared in a range of television series including *Boston Public*, *Shark*, *Body of Proof*, and *Bosch*.

Awards and recognition

Ryan won Saturn Awards for her performance as Seven of Nine in the *Star Trek* franchise. She has also received additional recognition for her work in television.

Personal life

Ryan is married to chef Christophe Émé and has two children. Public biographical sources identify her as American and note her German birth.

Key facts

  • Born in Munich, West Germany.
  • Best known for playing Seven of Nine in *Star Trek: Voyager* and *Star Trek: Picard*.
  • Won Saturn Awards for *Star Trek* franchise.
  • Notable television roles include *Boston Public*, *Shark*, *Body of Proof*, and *Bosch*.
  • Placed fourth in the 1990 Miss America pageant as Miss Illinois.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Jeri Ryan?
Jeri Ryan is an American actress best known for playing Seven of Nine in the *Star Trek* television franchise.
What is Jeri Ryan’s birth name?
Her birth name is Jeri Lynn Zimmermann.
Where was Jeri Ryan born?
She was born in Munich, West Germany.
What is Jeri Ryan best known for?
She is best known for portraying Seven of Nine in *Star Trek: Voyager* and *Star Trek: Picard*.
Did Jeri Ryan win awards for *Star Trek*?
Yes. She won Saturn Awards for her performance as Seven of Nine.
What other TV shows has Jeri Ryan appeared in?
She has appeared in *Boston Public*, *Shark*, *Body of Proof*, and *Bosch*, among others.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeri_Ryan
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, nationality, major roles, and awards.
  2. TV Guide — https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/jeri-ryan/bio/3030000032/
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, Miss Illinois title, Northwestern University attendance, and career highlights.
  3. StarTrek.com — https://www.startrek.com/news/seven-of-nine-things-you-should-know-about-jeri-ryan
    Supports: Birthplace, education, pageant background, family details, and role as Seven of Nine.
  4. Infoplease — https://www.infoplease.com/biographies/art-entertainment/jeri-ryan
    Supports: Birth information, early career, and major television roles.
  5. Memory Alpha — https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Jeri_Ryan
    Supports: Role as Seven of Nine in *Voyager* and *Picard*.