Shelley Long, born on August 23, 1949, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is an American actress, singer, and comedian. Best known for her iconic role as Diane Chambers in the hit sitcom Cheers, Long’s career has spanned decades, and she has left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. In this article, we’ll explore the highlights of Shelley Long’s career, her departure from Cheers, and her recent ventures.
Cheers and Departure: Shelley Long rose to fame for her portrayal of Diane Chambers, the sophisticated and sometimes neurotic character in Cheers. The show, which ran for 11 seasons, became a cultural phenomenon, earning Long critical acclaim, including five Emmy nominations and two Golden Globe Awards.
In December 1986, after five seasons on Cheers, Long made the decision to leave the show, citing a desire to focus on a movie career and spend more time with her family. While network executives had hoped to extend her contract, Long believed it was time for a change. Despite leaving Cheers, Long has expressed gratitude for the experience and praised her co-stars, particularly Ted Danson.
Post-Cheers Career: Following her departure from Cheers, Shelley Long ventured into film and television. She starred in movies such as The Money Pit, Outrageous Fortune, and Troop Beverly Hills. Long also received a Golden Globe nomination for her role in Irreconcilable Differences in 1984.
In 1990, she returned to television for the fact-based miniseries Voices Within The Lives of Truddi Chase, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Long continued to work in both film and television, earning critical praise for her dramatic roles and showcasing her comedic talents.
Recent Ventures: Shelley Long remains active in the entertainment industry. In recent years, she had a recurring role in the popular ABC sitcom Modern Family, portraying the character of DeDe Pritchett, the ex-wife of Jay Pritchett. Long’s performance earned her nominations for various awards, demonstrating her enduring talent.
In addition to her television work, Long has also taken on roles in film. She starred in the Luke Wilson movie The Cleaner, released in the previous year, and played the character “baby dog” in the upcoming project Give Me Pity!, scheduled for release in 2022.
Family and Personal Life: Shelley Long was married twice. Her first marriage to Ken Solomon ended in the 1970s. In 1981, she married Bruce Tyson, a securities broker, and they had a daughter named Juliana Tyson, born on March 27, 1985. However, Long and Tyson separated in 2003 and officially divorced in 2004.
At the age of 74, Shelley Long continues to contribute to the entertainment industry, showcasing her talent and versatility in various roles.
Shelley Long’s journey from the Cheers bar to her diverse roles in film and television reflects a successful and enduring career. Her decision to leave Cheers in 1986 did not mark the end of her contributions to the entertainment world, as she continued to take on challenging roles and win accolades. As she embarks on new projects in 2022, Shelley Long remains a beloved figure in the hearts of fans who fondly remember her iconic role as Diane Chambers in Cheers.