Derek Yates

Derek Yates is a multifaceted actor known for his roles across network television and streaming platforms, most notably as a Recurring Guest Star on NBC's Days of Our Lives. He has also appeared in Hulu's How I Met Your Father, Disney+'s American Born Chinese-where he shared the screen with Oscar winners Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan, as well as Oscar nominee Stephanie Hsu-and various other productions. Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Yates launched his acting career in the Southeast, signing with The Jana VanDyke Agency in 2012. This early stage was pivotal in building the experience and credits necessary to join SAG-AFTRA, ultimately leading to his move to Los Angeles in 2016. Beyond acting, Yates has a strong passion for fitness, photo and video editing, and pickleball, showcasing his diverse talents beyond the camera. His performance background stems from high school choir, which later led him into modeling and the entertainment industry. His stage experience includes roles in musicals such as Hairspray and The Sound of Music. In addition to his work in entertainment, Yates has dedicated himself to advocacy and philanthropy. He co-founded the nonprofit 1N3 with his mother, Tiki Finlayson, following the tragic loss of his brother, Kevin Yates, to a drunk driver. He is also actively involved with Project Angel Food, volunteering, fundraising, and raising awareness for the nonprofit's mission to feed critically ill individuals in Los Angeles. Most recently he donated approximately 11 inches of his own hair to Locks of Love and raised funds to cover the cost of the wig after a two-year growing period in memory of his brother, who wanted to donate his hair but was unable due to the crash.