Daughter of Caleb Deschanel and Mary Jo Deschanel Sister of Zooey Deschanel Graduated from Boston University's Professional Actor's Training Program with a B.F.A. in Theater Is good friends with Melanie Lynskey and Jorja Fox; both are supporters of PETA and the Humane Society. Lives in both Los Angeles and New York Interview magazine named her one of "6 Actors to Watch" in their annual "Young Hollywood" issue [October 2004] Her paternal grandfather was French and the remainder of her ancestry is Irish American. Is a vegan. Was bridesmaid at best friend Melanie Lynskey's wedding to Jimmi Simpson (14 April 2007).