In the glittering world of Hollywood, talent often runs in the family, and Juliana Tyson, the daughter of renowned actress Shelley Long, is no exception. Born on March 27, 1985, in Los Angeles, California, Juliana has crafted her own path in the entertainment industry, showcasing her passion for the performing arts and leaving an indelible mark. Let’s delve into the life of this multifaceted individual, exploring her upbringing, career, and personal milestones.
Early Years and Family Background:
Juliana Tyson’s journey began in the heart of the entertainment industry, with her mother, Shelley Long, captivating audiences as the iconic “Diane Chambers” on the hit television series Cheers. Juliana’s early years were shaped by her mother’s dedication to her craft, even as she decided to leave the role in 1987 to focus on her family and pursue a film career.
Juliana Tyson was born on March 27, 1985, in Los Angeles, California to actress Shelley Long and investment counselor Bruce Tyson. At the time, her mother was playing the popular character, “Diane Chambers”, on the highly-rated Cheers (1982). She left the role in 1987, after playing the role for five years. She wanted to pursue a film career and to spend more time with her young daughter and, while her relationship with Juliana flourished, her career didn’t. In spite of her mother’s professional setbacks
Despite the challenges her mother faced professionally, Juliana developed a deep love for the performing arts. At the tender age of three, she was already captivated by the world of theatre, attending Cirque du Soleil and immersing herself in the magic of the stage.
Academic and Artistic Pursuits:
Juliana’s artistic journey continued at the University of Southern California, where she earned a degree in Theatre. During her time at USC, she took on various roles, including “Boquicia” in the original musical “Invasion!” and “Elizabeth Proctor” in the faculty main-stage production of “The Crucible.” Her passion for storytelling also led her to write and perform a one-woman show, “Pieces,” exploring her compulsion to hoard relics from her childhood home.
Juliana’s dream of gracing the magnificent Ahmanson stage in “Downtown” was realized in 2004 when she played a role in CTG’s production of “Dead End.”
Personal Challenges and Triumphs:
The year 2004 marked not only a professional milestone but also a personal challenge, as Juliana’s parents went through a divorce. Despite the upheaval, Juliana remained a pillar of support for her mother, helping her navigate the emotional aftermath.
Television Debut and Beyond:
In 2009, Juliana made her television debut in a guest role as “Victoria Taylor” on CW’s hit show, Privileged. Her foray into television further solidified her presence in the entertainment industry.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Family Life:
Beyond her acting career, Juliana is a founding member of the LA-based dance theatre company, “Boom Kat Dance Theatre.” On September 29, 2015, she married Ryan Kissick, a Stanford-educated management consultant. Their love story sparked at a mutual friend’s birthday party, which eventually led them to choose Ashford Castle in Ireland as their wedding destination.
In addition to her creative pursuits, Juliana is an entrepreneur, having founded Good Juju Ink. The company offers a range of products, including greeting cards and apparel.
Juliana’s most significant role to date arrived on April 16, 2019, with the birth of her daughter, Josephine Belle Kissick. Family remains a cornerstone of Juliana’s life, and her commitment to her loved ones is evident in her heartfelt quote about her wedding day, where her father played a central role in giving her away.
Juliana Tyson’s journey from the daughter of a Hollywood icon to a talented actress and entrepreneur is a testament to her resilience, creativity, and commitment to her craft. As she continues to make her mark in the entertainment industry and beyond, Juliana’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring artists and individuals navigating the complexities of life, love, and family.