David Lim is no stranger to perseverance. Before landing his breakout role as Victor Tan on S.W.A.T., he auditioned three times for the show. Just when he thought the opportunity had passed, the producers surprised him by creating a brand-new character just for him. But Lim’s creativity does not stop at high-stakes chases and intense standoffs. Off-screen, he and his wife, Marketa, turned a devastating home burglary into something meaningful: Maya David, a jewelry brand inspired by resilience, storytelling, and timeless design. To learn more about David Lim’s story, read on.

Where are you based?
I’m based in Los Angeles. It’s been home for me for many years now, and it’s the perfect city to pursue my passions both on and off-screen. Plus, the weather isn’t too bad either.

What inspired you to pursue a career in acting?
It was a mix of curiosity and a drive to push myself out of my comfort zone. I had a great job in corporate America, but I started to have this feeling that I wanted to explore something creative. When I took my first acting class, I caught the bug. It was intimidating and exciting all at once, and I knew I had to see where it could take me.

You are currently playing Victor Tan, in S.W.A.T., which is a role that was created for you! Can you tell us a little bit about that? How did Victor Tan come to be?
It’s a story I’ll never forget. I originally auditioned for S.W.A.T. three times and didn’t book any of the roles. I thought that was the end of it. But a week later, my agent called me and said they had created a role in the pilot just for me — Victor Tan. What started as a six-episode arc has turned into eight seasons and over 150 episodes. It’s been an amazing journey.

How has your character evolved over the years? What aspects of his journey have been the most fulfilling to portray?
Victor Tan has grown so much since season one. He started as a young, ambitious officer eager to prove himself, but over time, he’s faced personal challenges and professional growth that have added so much depth to the role. Portraying his vulnerability, whether it’s the struggles in his personal life or his loyalty to the team, has been incredibly fulfilling.

S.W.A.T. is a super action-packed show. What is your favorite part about being on the show and playing Victor?
I’d say the stunts and the camaraderie. I get to work with an amazing cast and crew who make every day on set a blast. Being together for eight seasons, you really become a family. I also love doing my own stunts and fight sequences — it’s such a thrill. As someone who’s always been a fan of action, it’s fun to bring that excitement to life for audiences every week.

When you are not chasing bad guys, you are designing jewelry with your wife, Marketa. How did the idea of designing your own jewelry and starting your brand Maya David emerge?
Maya David was born out of a difficult time in our lives. After a home burglary, we felt the urge to create something meaningful and lasting. Jewelry has always been a way to express stories and emotions, so we decided to channel our energy into creating pieces that symbolize resilience, connection, and self-expression.

Have you ever explored jewelry-making before, or was this a completely new venture?
This was completely new for us! We dove in headfirst, learning everything from design to sourcing and production. It’s been a steep learning curve but a rewarding one.

What serves as the inspiration behind your jewelry pieces? Do you and your wife work on each piece together?
Our pieces are inspired by our personal stories, travels, and the people who’ve impacted our lives. Marketa and I work closely together on every design, blending her creative eye with my focus on detail and storytelling. It’s a true partnership.

A home burglary is a profound violation of personal space and security. How did the experience of having your personal belongings stolen impact you both emotionally and psychologically? How has creating Maya David helped in the healing?
It was tough. Losing items with sentimental value felt like losing pieces of our history. Maya David became a way for us to reclaim our narrative. Every piece we create represents strength and empowerment, not just for us but hopefully for anyone who wears it.

Turning something negative into a creative endeavor like Maya David is deeply transformative. What has been the most profound lesson you have learned from this experience, and how has it influenced the way you approach your work and personal life now?
The biggest lesson has been resilience. Challenges will come, but it’s how you respond to them that defines you. This experience has taught me to approach everything — from acting to relationships — with gratitude, determination, and patience.

Are there any upcoming collections or new creative directions you are excited about for Maya David?
Yes! We’re working on new designs that blend bold elements with timeless style. We’re also exploring collaborations that will expand our reach while staying true to our values.

How do you hope people connect with the brand and its story?
I hope people see Maya David as more than just jewelry. It’s about resilience, connection, and celebrating the moments that shape us. I want every piece to feel like a reminder that strength and beauty go hand in hand.

We love that a part of the proceeds of Maya David will be donated to One Tree Planted. What inspired you two to support One Tree Planted?
Nature has always been a grounding force for us. Supporting One Tree Planted felt like a natural way to give back and make a positive impact. Every tree planted is a step toward a healthier planet.

We also saw that this month, Maya David is proud to donate 50% of all sales to the California Fire Foundation. How are you two weathering the fires?
The fires have been heartbreaking. Knowing we can support firefighters and those affected brings some sense of purpose during these tough times. Giving back through Maya David is just one way we’re trying to help.

Balancing an acting career with launching a business is a significant challenge. How do you manage both, and what have been the biggest challenges?
Time management is key. Between long days on set and running a business, it’s a lot to juggle. But having a strong partnership with Marketa makes all the difference. We lean on each other and take it one day at a time.

Are there any upcoming projects you would like to share?
We’re wrapping up season 8 of S.W.A.T. in a couple of months. Beyond that, it’s a blank slate, but we’re all hopeful for a Season 9 — we’ve got plenty more stories to tell!

It has been a crazy past few years. How have you been staying positive?
Gratitude. Focusing on the things I’m thankful for—my family, my career, and the chance to create with Maya David — helps keep me grounded. Also, fitness and staying active with our dog are huge mood boosters for me.

What is your motto in life?
“Hard work and consistency.” Whether it’s in acting, fitness, or life, showing up, putting in the work and staying consistent usually leads to great things.

To learn more about bout David Lim, please follow the links below:
Instagram: @davidbradleylim
TikTok: @davidbradleylim6
Maya David: @shopmayadavid
Website: www.shopmayadavid.com

Team Credits:
Photographer: John M. Williams
Stylist: Ton Aguilar
Groomer: Alisha Bailey at Rouge Artists

COVER: David Lim - Chases Bad Guys