Rupert Jee Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

Rupert Jee is an American entrepreneur and television personality known for his longtime ownership of Hello Deli and his frequent appearances on the Late Show with David Letterman.

Rupert Jee has carved out a unique place in American pop culture: a local deli owner whose genuine personality and on-screen charm turned him into a beloved television figure while anchoring a small business in the heart of New York City. Alongside his entrepreneurial pursuits, Jee’s life story weaves together humble beginnings, decades of neighborhood influence, and a discreet approach to personal relationships — all of which contribute to his enduring appeal.

A Snapshot of the Man Behind the Deli Counter

How a Neighborhood Deli Became Television History

Long before Rupert Jee became a recognizable figure on late-night television, he was a New Yorker intent on building something of his own. Born to Chinese immigrant parents, Jee grew up with a strong work ethic and a clear love for community and food — two elements that would define his professional life. 

After earning a degree in economics from the City University of New York, Jee ventured into the world of small business ownership. In 1992, he and longtime associate May Chin purchased a modest sandwich shop at 213 West 53rd Street in Manhattan — an address that would soon become historic in its own right. 

In 1993, the Late Show with David Letterman moved into the adjacent Ed Sullivan Theater. Producers introduced Jee to viewers during a “Meet the Neighbors” segment, and the rest was serendipity. Over more than two decades, Jee became an unofficial ambassador of the neighborhood, appearing on the show in hundreds of comedic bits and hosting memorable segments that blended his untrained yet charismatic presence with Letterman’s sharp wit. 

Defining moments in Rupert Jee’s journey include:

• Purchasing Hello Deli and establishing it as a Midtown landmark.

• His first Late Show appearance in 1993 that sparked an unlikely television career. 

• Becoming a recurring personality on late-night television and contributing to the pop-culture lore of the Late Show. 

• Navigating the transition after David Letterman’s retirement and eventually announcing plans to retire from Hello Deli itself. 

The Core Pillars of Rupert Jee’s Wealth

Rupert Jee’s estimated net worth of roughly $500,000 reflects a career built on small-business success and sustained television exposure rather than high-profile corporate ventures or large-scale investments. 

The core pillars of Rupert Jee’s wealth include:

• Hello Deli – The iconic Midtown deli provided Jee’s primary source of income and cultural visibility. 

• Television appearances – Frequent on-air spots with Late Show with David Letterman elevated his profile, reinforcing public interest in his business and persona.

• Brand recognition and merchandise – Over time, Hello Deli’s visibility and its association with the show generated additional revenue through branded memorabilia and fan engagement. 

Relationships & Personal Life Behind the Scenes

Rupert Jee is renowned for preserving his personal life from the spotlight, focusing public attention on his business and television work rather than family or romantic narratives.

He is widely recognized for his long-standing professional and personal association with May Chin, his Hello Deli business partner. While some sources note that the two have been deeply connected through decades of collaboration, there is no verified information confirming a romantic partnership, marriage, or publicly disclosed partner beyond their business relationship.

Key insights into Rupert Jee’s relationships and personal life:

• Jee intentionally maintains privacy around personal relationships. 

• His most publicly known association is with business partner May Chin. 

• There is no reliable public record confirming a spouse, children, or romantic partner. 

A Life Beyond Business and Television

While Rupert Jee’s fame stems largely from the deli counter and the late-night stage, there is more to his personal interests and lifestyle that reflects a grounded personality. Sources describing Jee’s own reflections and recollections highlight interests including activities like ping-pong, fishing, and even stock trading — pursuits that suggest a life enriched by curiosity and community rather than celebrity.

Beyond the daily rhythm of running a business and making television history, Rupert Jee has embodied the spirit of New York — welcoming locals and visitors alike into the fabric of city life and contributing to the cultural tapestry of Midtown Manhattan. 

Rupert Jee Net Worth Breakdown

Here’s a simplified breakdown of Rupert Jee’s estimated financial picture based on available public sources:

Legacy: A Deli Owner Who Became Part of Television History

Rupert Jee’s public image is rooted in authenticity, humility, and a genuine connection to his community. Unlike many who chase fame, Jee’s journey reflects a reluctant-but-beloved celebrity whose charm lies in being exactly who he is — a friendly face, a dedicated small business owner, and an unlikely late-night television fixture. 

His legacy includes:

• Helping make Hello Deli a cultural landmark. 

• Becoming one of the most frequently featured non-cast personalities on Late Show with David Letterman.

• Inspiring fans of television and New York City culture with humor and sincerity. 

Rupert Jee’s story reminds us that sometimes the most memorable figures aren’t the polished celebrities but the real people whose everyday lives intersect with iconic moments in popular culture.