Zooey Deschanel is an American actress, singer-songwriter, and model. She was born on January 17, 1980, in Los Angeles, California, to Calee and Michael Deschanel. Her name is pronounced "Zoo-ey," with the first syllable rhyming with "zoo."
Deschanel made her acting debut in 1999 with a small role in the film "Mumford." However, she gained widespread recognition for her role as Anita Miller in the 2001 film "All the Real Girls." She has since appeared in numerous films, including "Elf" (2003), "The Good Girl" (2002), "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" (2005), and "500 Days of Summer" (2009).
Deschanel is also known for her work in television. She starred as Jessicah "Jess" Day in the Fox sitcom "New Girl" from 2011 to 2018. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and several award nominations, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Television Series – Musical or Comedy.
As a singer-songwriter, Deschanel has released two solo albums, "Volume One" (2008) and "Volume Two" (2010), under the name She & Him. The duo's music is characterized by a retro, folk-pop sound. Deschanel has also lent her voice to various film and television projects, including the animated series "Bob's Burgers" and the Fox animated special "Megas XLR."
Deschanel is known for her distinctive appearance, with her expressive eyes, quirky fashion sense, and unique voice. She has been described as having a "girl-next-door" appeal, but with a hint of eccentricity. She has been a frequent subject of media attention for her personal life, including her relationships and her vegan lifestyle.
Despite her success in the entertainment industry, Deschanel has remained humble and grounded. She has been open about her struggles with anxiety and depression and has used her platform to raise awareness for mental health issues. She is also an advocate for animal rights and has worked with various organizations to promote animal welfare.