Shay Mitchell, born Shannon Ashley Mitchell, is well-known for her portrayal of Emily Fields in the hit teen drama series “Pretty Little Liars.” She is a Canadian actress, model, author, and entrepreneur who has become an inspiration for many young women worldwide. She is not just a glamorous and talented star but also a positive role model and advocate for women’s rights and mental health.
Shay was born in Mississauga, Ontario, on April 10, 1987. Her mother is of Filipino descent, while her father is of Irish/Scottish descent. Her parents separated when she was young, and her mother raised her alone. Shay was passionate about performing arts from an early age and started her career as a model at the age of 12. She later ventured into acting, booking small roles in various television series and movies.
In 2009, Shay auditioned for the role of Spencer Hastings in “Pretty Little Liars” but was eventually cast as Emily Fields, a teenage athlete struggling with her sexuality. The show became an instant hit, and Shay’s portrayal of Emily earned her critical acclaim and a massive fan following. She continued playing the role throughout the seven seasons of the show, which ended in 2017.
Apart from acting, Shay has also ventured into entrepreneurship. She co-founded a travel brand called BÉIS in 2018, which offers affordable and stylish travel essentials, ranging from luggage and backpacks to skincare and beauty products. She aims to make travel accessible to everyone and to empower women to explore the world with confidence and style.
Shay is also a published author, having released her first book “Bliss” in 2015, which consists of personal essays and stories about her life, family, and career. In 2019, she released her second book “Am I There Yet?” which discussed her personal journey of self-discovery and growth. She aims to inspire her readers to embrace their unique journey and to recognize that life is not a race but a process that unfolds over time.
Aside from her professional accomplishments, Shay is also known for her bold attitude and stance on important issues. She is a strong advocate for mental health and has been open about her struggles with anxiety and depression. She also strives to promote body positivity, inclusivity, and diversity in the entertainment industry. She has spoken out against discrimination and has used her platform to raise awareness and support marginalized communities.
In conclusion, Shay Mitchell is an inspiring individual who has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and beyond. From her breakthrough role in “Pretty Little Liars” to co-founding BÉIS and advocating for important social issues, she has paved the way for women to follow their dreams and create positive change. She continues to motivate and inspire people worldwide with her bold personality, contagious energy, and unwavering determination.