Shelley Long, the renowned actress known for her role as Diane Chambers in the iconic sitcom “Cheers,” made waves when she unexpectedly quit the show at its peak. Now, almost 30 years later, she leads a life that is far different from what is expected of a Hollywood star. Let’s dive deeper into Shelley Long’s journey and how she has found happiness outside of the spotlight.
The Cheers Era
Shelley Long rose to fame as one of the biggest stars of the hit sitcom “Cheers.” Her portrayal of Diane Chambers, an intelligent and sophisticated waitress, captivated audiences. The on-and-off relationship between her character and Ted Danson’s character, Sam Marlon, kept viewers hooked and became the main attraction of the show.
Created by James Burrows and Glen and Les Charles, “Cheers” became one of the biggest shows of 1983. Set in a bar, the series followed the lives of a group of locals who gathered to unwind and chat. Long’s character served as a guide for how the audience interacted with the happenings at the bar.
The Decision to Leave
Despite the immense success of “Cheers,” Shelley Long decided to leave the show and pursue a career in film. She wanted to explore new opportunities and spend more time with her family. While her departure came as a shock to fans and even worried the show’s creators, it was a personal decision that Long felt was necessary for her own growth.
Life After “Cheers”
After leaving “Cheers,” Shelley Long ventured into movies. She appeared in films like “Outrage Fortune,” “The Money Pit,” “Night Shift,” and “Incredible Differences.” However, her film career didn’t reach the same heights as her time on “Cheers.”
Long faced judgment and criticism for leaving the show, but she stayed true to her decision. She felt that she was repeating herself on “Cheers” and wanted to explore different genres. Despite the challenges she faced in her career, Shelley Long continued to pursue her passion for acting.
Overcoming Personal Struggles
While Shelley Long aimed to build a successful career after “Cheers,” she also faced personal challenges. Her marriage to Bruce Tyson ended in 2004, which led to a period of deep depression for the actress. She even experienced a reported suicide attempt, though her publicist clarified it was a bad reaction to medication.
Despite these struggles, Long found strength in her daughter, Juliana. Their relationship grew stronger after she left “Cheers,” and Juliana pursued her own passion for the performing arts. Juliana became an actress and a founding member of a theater company, proving that talent runs in the family.
A Quiet Life
Today, Shelley Long lives a low-profile life out of the spotlight. She was recently spotted walking her Chihuahua in Los Angeles, enjoying the simple things in life. While her film career may not have reached the same level of success as “Cheers,” Long’s talent as an actress and the impact she had on the show will never be forgotten.
Shelley Long’s life story teaches us that sometimes taking a risk and stepping away from the familiar can lead us on a journey to personal growth and happiness. She may have left the glitz and glamour behind, but she has found fulfillment in the love of her family and a new role as a grandmother.
